The city of Sedona is hoping the third time’s the charm.
The search for a new city attorney continues as the position is being advertised for a third time. Sedona City Attorney Robert Pickels had planned to step down in June from the position — which he’s held for more than four years — but has agreed to stay on until the vacancy is filled.
“I have agreed to suspend my retirement until a suitable replacement can be hired and on-board into the organization,” Pickels said late last week. “We’re hoping that this will happen in the next few months.”
As to why he decided to stay on, Pickels added, “I’ve grown attached to the staff and council and want to make sure that they all have the support they need to be successful.”
Pickels announced his impending retirement at the beginning of the year with the plan of giving the city enough tome to find a replacement. City Manager Justin Clifton said that was appreciated and even more so that he has agreed to stay on even longer.
“Not too many professionals would delay their personal plans just to help their employer,” Clifton said. “But Robert is a step above most professionals.
“Filling a vacancy for a key position like the city attorney is a lot like a marriage. A lot has to be right for it to work for all involved. Only making matters more difficult, in this case it doesn’t just have to work for two people. The city attorney is a unique position in that he/she works directly with seven councilors, a small legal team and numerous city departments.”
As far as what the city is looking for in a new city attorney, Clifton said he can’t speak for the Sedona City Council, which makes the decision, but he feels it’s a combination of things.
“It’s obviously important that the city attorney provide sound legal advice first and foremost,” he said. “But there also has to be a great fit with the council and the broader team so that everyone is willing and eager to engage the city attorney for that advice and are inclined to follow it.
“Robert also had experience as a county administrator, which gave him valuable perspective into policy matters. Lastly, Robert was very active engaging the legislative process. Ideally we would find a candidate with similar qualities.”
