Libby's city administrator position goes to Hammons

Reaching the conclusion of a search that went on for more than six months, Libby has finally hired a city administrator. And a familiar face will take on that role – former Troy mayor Jim Hammons.

“He fits the bill … he has enough experience in Montana government and he’s a small-town guy,” Libby mayor Doug Roll said Friday morning. “I think he’s got the ambition, the energy and has a good background.”

Hammons, 49, finished his term as mayor at the end of December. He served the community in that capacity for four years and also has seven years on Troy City Council in his background.

“I think it’s going to be a big challenge,” Hammons said. “I think there are a lot of things that Libby’s moving forward on and I’m a progressive person and like that. I think it will be exciting.”

Libby has been searching to fill the position since first advertising in July. A candidate chosen after the interviewing process backed out, Roll said, because his fiancé changed her mind about moving to Libby. The city interviewed its second choice for a second time, but decided to advertise again for someone with more experience.

After re-advertising the position to attract more candidates, the process started over from square one. Meanwhile, Dan Thede’s retirement took effect at the end of October.

“Most of what I had down for finalists were from out of state,” Roll said. “Jim’s name was there and kept staring at me in the face. I pondered it for a couple of weeks and Jim and I had a couple of conversations. I don’t think I can find a better fit as far as Montana government and Montana practices.”

Although the hiring is ultimately decided by the mayor, Roll said the city council was involved.

“It’s my appointment but I ran it by the council and everyone seemed to be on board with it,” Roll said. “We needed to get somebody here … there were no objections to it.”

Hammons said infrastructure issues are very important when it comes to small towns like Libby and Troy. He said he likes going after grant money to better the community.

“I’d like to see a five-year plan put together and have something to work off of as we move forward,” Hammons said. “Then we can work on those projects and that helps us secure more money.”

Hammons was scheduled to start the job on Tuesday.