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TIFTON, Ga. (WALB) - The city of Tifton has narrowed down the search for a new city manager, and they have named a sole finalist for the position.

According to the city, this decision was made after a “lengthy nationwide search” led by the Sumter Local Government Consulting (SLGC) and the Tifton City Council.

Over 30 applicants were received, but the city decided to go forward and have both in-person and virtual interviews with their top four candidates.

It was important for the city to find a candidate who “not only brought a wide variety of experience and knowledge, but also those who exhibited the values of our Friendly City like integrity, priority of community, excellence, efficiency, and the ability to vision for our future.”

After deliberation, Mayor Julie Smith and the city council announced Jess Shoobridge, the current city administrator in Crookston, Minnesota, as the sole finalist for the city manager position.

Smith and the city council have invited Shoobridge and his family back to Tifton for a Community Tour and Meet and Greet with city staff and local stakeholders.

The purpose of this visit is to offer a deeper perspective on the community and help further inform the city’s final decision.

The final appointment is planned to take place at the Tifton City Council Meeting on Monday, Aug. 18.

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