by Alan McArthur
Landmark reporter
Platte City's new city administrator stopped by city hall on Friday to be introduced to city employees and get tours of the city's facilities.
Mayor Frank Offutt held an event on Friday to introduce Jason Metten to the employees and have the employees introduce themselves to Metten. Metten begins work on Tuesday, Sept. 2 after Keith Moody the current city administrator's contract ends on Aug. 31.
Offutt introduced Metten at city hall with Moody sitting on the opposite side of Offutt listening in.
“I'd like to take this opportunity to introduce Jason Metten,” said Offutt. “We are not looking to reinvent the wheel, we plan to continue with the way things are going. We should see a very smooth transition.”
Metten also spoke to the employees gathered in the room before having them introduced and shaking hands.
“I am very excited about where I stand,” said Metten. “I have been working towards this moment. I have a great deal of respect for what Mr. Moody has done. I intend to be as accessible as possible.”
Metten then said that in his three years as city administrator in Hawarden, Ia., his door was only closed six times and that employees are always welcome in his office.
Metten is taking over the city administrator position in Platte City after the board of aldermen voted to fire Moody in January of this year. After a search for a new administrator with the assistance of Organization Consultants, the city hired Metten on Tuesday, July 22.
Metten will receive a salary of $75,000, compared to Moody's nearly $73,000. Metten will also receive a $250 per month car allowance and be reimbursed up to $3,000 for moving expenses.
