HASTINGS, NE — The City of Hastings has selected its next city administrator.

The city council voted unanimously at its meeting Tuesday night to appoint Shawn Metcalf to the position. Mayor Corey Stutte says all 12 people on the selection panel ranked Metcalf as the best choice.

“We’re looking for a good communicator, someone who can build trust with staff and someone that’s really forward thinking," Stutte said. "We really found that with Shawn and we’re excited to have him.”

Metcalf replaces Dave Ptak, who was placed on leave in April and resigned in May. Many locals were critical of Ptak after profane and derogatory emails were released in a Facebook group.

“Having some fresh eyes is a good thing," Stutte said. "Having that transparency and helping build trust not only with our employees, but our community, I think is really important.”

Metcalf is currently the city manager in Rawlins, WY, a city of about 8,200 people. According to his LinkedIn resume, he has also worked in city government in Roosevelt, UT, and San Antonio, TX.

While the mayor and council provide oversight, Stutte describes the city administrator as the person actually doing the day-to-day job of managing the city.

“Having someone who that’s really in tune with finances and HR is very important. It’s something that we’re really excited to have someone come on board with such a great background,” Stutte said.

Contract details are still being negotiated. Stutte expects Metcalf and his family to move to Hastings within the next 60 days.