University City Names Gregory Rose New City Manager

UNIVERSITY CITY, MO — Gregory Rose will be University City's new city manager, Mayor Shelley Welsch announced at a council meeting Monday night. Rose, who currently serves as the city manager of Maricopa, Arizona, was hired after a nationwide search that identified dozens of candidates. Rose previously served as the assistant city manager of University City from 1997 to 2001, and has a masters degree in public administration from the University of Texas.

Rose will replace Charles Adams, who was selected to serve in the interim after former city manager Lehman Walker was suspended by council vote last year. Walker was accused of making racist and sexually-harassing comments to city employees, a claim that he denies. Walker and the city reached a $150,000 settlement in October.

Though the council meeting was at times tense, members unanimously approved of the choice. First ward councilmember Terry Crow thanked Adams for his service and said he would support the interim manager staying on during the transition period. "Mr. Adams has done an incredible job. He came here when we needed him most," Crow said. "Once we get Mr. Rose on board, I believe it is important for us to talk about a transition plan, a transition plan that includes Mr. Adams staying on for a while, because I think he knows truly where the bodies are buried."

Welsch signed the contract last night shortly before the council meeting. Rose will be paid $170,000 a year, and is expected to start on Dec. 28.

Photo by J. Ryne Danielson