The Albert Lea City Council interviewed a potential candidate for interim city manager Thursday who has worked as a city manager in previous cities in Minnesota and Iowa for more than 30 years.

Albert Lea Mayor Vern Rasmussen said it is likely the council will vote whether to hire the candidate, Patrick E. McGarvey, 69, of Mason City, Iowa, during the Monday council meeting.

McGarvey most recently worked as the city administrator of Austin from 1992 to 2003, and has also worked as city administrator in North Liberty, Iowa, Lakeville and Chaska. He was also city clerk in Bettendorf, Iowa, for 1 1/2 years.

He has a master’s degree in public administration from the University of Iowa, along with a bachelor’s degree in political science, also from the university.

McGarvey indicated he would be interested in a part-time position in Albert Lea during an interim, which would probably include working a few days a week until a permanent city manager is found. He said while he’s not interested in a long-term position anywhere at this point in his life, he wants to be of assistance if he can.

The search comes after former City Manager Jim Norman resigned in August, embroiled in charges that he misused the city credit card for personal purchases.

He faces two felonies and one gross misdemeanor in the case. He had only started in May.

Rasmussen said the city was contacted by more than 10 people who were interested in the interim position and then staff and the council looked closer at six of the candidates.

Rasmussen told McGarvey the council is looking for someone who could stabilize the city in the absence of a finance director and city manager.

McGarvey flew in from southern California for the interview, where his fiancée is staying during the winter.

When asked what is unique that he could bring to the table, McGarvey said he has worked in smaller cities where he’s had more responsibilities.

He said he has also had a lot of experience with growth and change and sometimes the controversy that comes along with that.

He said while he is excited to get back in Minnesota to be with some of his colleagues who are still practicing, ultimately, “I just get a good feeling out of trying to help a community progress and solve issues.”

After the interview, 5th Ward Councilor Larry Anderson thanked McGarvey for his enthusiasm and passion for the job.

The councilors expressed their unofficial approval of McGarvey following their Thursday workshop.

Special election

Albert Lea City Clerk Shirley Slater-Schulte said she is working with the Minnesota Secretary of State’s Office to arrange a special election for Ward 1. She said she hopes to hear back more about a potential timeline in the next few days.

The position is open after Mayor Vern Rasmussen accepted an immediate appointment as mayor following the general election.