• 
• CLASS
• JOBS
• AUTO
• HOMES

City of Janesville seeks leader for economic development

Photo

Doug Venable

JANESVILLE — The city of Janesville is working to fill another high profile position.

Doug Venable, the city's economic development director, plans to retire at the end of the year.

Venable said Monday that he likely will leave his office for good in either November or December, depending upon how much vacation time he has to use by the end of the year.

Venable joined the city staff in November 1987, four years after moving from the La Crosse area to Rock County to become the county's economic development agent.

He joined the city staff in 1987 and has been involved in several significant economic development projects.

Susan Musick, the city's human resources director, said the city is reviewing resumes for the position. Interviews will take place in August, and the intent is to offer the position in September and have the new person on board in October, she said.

Musick said there likely will be some overlap where the new director is in office before Venable leaves. That will benefit the new person, she said, adding that Venable has a wealth of knowledge and background to pass on.

But given budget constraints, Musick said that overlap wouldn't last for long.

According to the city's Web site, the position's salary is negotiable but will range from $76,361 to $108,536.

Venable's retirement continues a string of high profile vacancies.

In the last year, the city has hired a new city manager and police chief and consolidated the leadership position at the Leisure Services Department.

In addition, Musick said the city is re-advertising for candidates for the position of public works director. Jack Messer retired from the position earlier this year.