Ocean View picks Konrad to be new town manager

After a four-month search, the Ocean View Town Council this week hired a new town manager. Councilman Tom Sheeran reported that the town had extended an employment offer to Rick Konrad, the current city manager of Fruitland, Md., and that Konrad had accepted the position.

Coastal Point • Submitted: Konrad“I’m really excited about being chosen,” said Konrad following the town’s announcement. “It’s a real honor, and I’m looking forward to coming up and being a part of the community and helping to make Ocean View a better place.”

The town began their search for a new town manager following the termination of former town manager Conway Gregory’s contract last November.

Konrad was one of the 96 applicants who applied for the position, and Sheeran said Konrad’s name kept coming to the top of the list.

“From many qualified candidates, I think the committee has done an excellent job selecting Mr. Korad,” said Sheeran. “I think he’ll do an excellent job.”

Mayor Gordon Wood commended Sheeran and the search committee for their collective effort to find a town manager so quickly. In written statement, Wood said that the town is lucky to have found Konrad, who has a master’s degree in public administration and has experience in county and city parks management in Wicomico County, Md., as well as Norfolk, Va., and Reading, Ohio.

“Ocean View is most fortunate to retain the services of Mr. Konrad, someone who has demonstrated his capabilities in the private and public sectors and leadership in service clubs.”

Wood also praised Finance Director Lee Brubaker for his work serving as interim town manager.

“Lee Brubaker has served admirably as Ocean View’s acting town manager while also maintaining his finance-director responsibilities. It is an understatement to acknowledge that his efforts and long hours in both roles – especially during the budget season – were most effective, and appreciated and commended by the Council.”

Konrad will have a three-year contract with the town, beginning April 15, with a salary of $72,000 per year. Konrad was hired to be the chief administrative officer of the town and will participate in the preparation of the budget, as well as encouraging economic development and communicating with residents.

“I look forward to introducing Mr. Konrad to the rest of council and to our community,” added Councilman Bob Lawless. “I feel that he will be a fabulous addition to our town.”