The Pasco City Council has named the next city manager.

Harold Stewart, an experienced city manager coming from the Midwest, was selected from the two other finalists interviewed by the council on July 14.

“(Stewart’s) collaborative leadership style, dedication to public service, and deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities in growing communities make him the right fit for our city,” said Pasco Mayor Pete Serrano in a July 21 statement. “We look forward to working together to continue building a vibrant and inclusive future for Pasco.”

His start date has not yet been determined.

Stewart is currently the city manager of Minot, North Dakota, and has more than 20 years of public service experience, including 12 years in city management. 

He has been the city manager of Warrensburg, Missouri; Knoxville, Iowa; and Ogallala, Nebraska. 

He has a bachelor’s degree in political science and a Master of Public Administration from the University of Kansas.

“I’m honored to have been selected to serve the residents of Pasco,” Stewart said in a statement. “I was deeply impressed by the city’s vision, the pride of its staff, and the energy in the community. I look forward to getting started and working together to support the city council’s priorities and the needs of Pasco’s diverse neighborhoods.”

As Pasco’s city manager, Stewart will oversee the city’s day-to-day operations in alignment with council priorities. 

The city has about 500 employees across various departments and a population of over 81,000. 

Currently, Dave Zabell is serving as Pasco’s interim city manager. Zabell served as Pasco’s city manager from 2014 to 2022 before retiring.

Adam Lincoln last served as city manager before joining the Port of Pasco as its executive director earlier this year.