Richmond seeking to hire deputy chief administrative officer

Richmond Mayor Dwight C. Jones is restructuring the city administration to consolidate oversight of efforts to recruit development and to determine whether projects comply with zoning and other regulations.

The city began advertising Sunday for a deputy chief administrative officer for economic and community development. The position offers a salary range of $111,957 to $168,732 per year.

"He's anticipating this position being filled in the coming weeks," after a chief administrative officer is hired, said Tammy D. Hawley, Jones' press secretary.

Byron C. Marshall, president and chief executive officer of the Austin Revitalization Authority in Texas, has been introduced to City Council members as a finalist for the CAO position. Hawley had no comment yesterday when asked whether an appointment was imminent.

Jones wanted a deputy chief administrative officer with oversight of economic and community development because they're both priorities and they can sometimes find themselves in conflict, Hawley said.

For example, the proposed Echo Harbour condominium, hotel and office project has been controversial because of its potential impact on views of the James River, but it also represents a potential investment of $153 million along the riverfront east of downtown.

The deputy also would oversee the city's minority-business enterprise and real estate services functions. The appointee would be the administration's contact with the East District Initiative, Greater Richmond Partnership, Port of Richmond, Richmond Redevelopment and Housing Authority, GRTC Transit System, Richmond Metropolitan Authority and other groups.

Under Mayor L. Douglas Wilder, the city had deputy CAOs overseeing human services, operations and finance. No other deputy CAO positions are being advertised.

Contact Will Jones at (804) 649-6911 or .