The City of Woodbury announced Tuesday that longtime City Administrator Clint Gridley will retire in June after 21 years of service, prompting the city to launch a national search for his replacement.

The city has contracted with government consultant Dave Unmacht, former executive director of the League of Minnesota Cities, to develop a position profile for the role. Baker Tilly, a recruitment firm, will conduct the national search process. Baker Tilly began reviewing applications and screening candidates the week of April 7, with the City Council scheduled to meet in closed session April 30 to select finalists. On-site interviews with final candidates are planned for late May.

Gridley joined Woodbury as its third city administrator in 2004 and oversaw significant growth and development during his tenure. Under his leadership, the city's population expanded from approximately 50,000 to more than 80,000 residents, making Woodbury the eighth largest city in Minnesota. Commercial property in the city grew from 7.2 million square feet in 2004 to more than 13.7 million square feet today.

Major projects completed during Gridley's tenure include the ongoing construction of a water treatment plant, remodeling and expansion of the M Health Fairview Sports Center, and construction of a splash pad and Madison's Place universally-accessible playground. The city maintained high service levels as measured by biennial community surveys and annual performance programs.

The city administrator position provides guidance to the City Council on policy development and strategic planning while managing daily city operations. Responsibilities include supervising department heads, developing the annual budget and capital improvement plan, and representing the city in negotiations and intergovernmental discussions.