Ponder tapped as interim city administrator in Prairie City

Current Prairie City Library Director Sue Ponder is taking on a new role. At a special city council meeting Aug. 25, Ponder was named interim city administrator while the city begins the search for a new person to fill the role.

“Sue is an invaluable member of the city team and her interim appointment reflects the trust and confidence place in her abilities,” Prairie City Mayor Chad Alleger said.

Ponder, who recently celebrated 20 years with the city as library director, is taking over for former city administrator Jerry Moore who recently left the position. The role makes recommendations and guides future capital improvements, financing, equipment, staff, economic development and operational needs, oversees city code development and enforcement, planning and zoning compliance and the daily operation of city government, in coordination with the mayor and city council, is responsible for the supervision and actions of all city employees and the use of city-owned property and equipment and evaluates community needs and desires and provides qualified and quality direction and guidance for the community as a whole.

The city council also approved the resignation of city clerk/finance officer Christie Busby during the special meeting. The position is charged with keeping the official record of council proceedings, maintaining Prairie City’s official records and receiving legal documents on behalf of Prairie City, overseeing purchasing and payroll activities, developing and maintaining systems of internal control to safeguard Prairie City’s financial assets and assisting the city administrator and elected officials in developing the annual budget.

At the same meeting, the council approved Jadi Brown to serve as interim city clerk. Brown is currently the city’s utility billing clerk.

Those interested in the positions can contact the city for more information.