Dayton Approved City Manager Recruitment Contract

The city commissioned Raftelis Financial Consultants to assist in finding a successor for the retiring city manager.

Updated on Oct. 9, 2026 in People

Dayton Approved City Manager Recruitment Contract

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Should city officials always require public input before hiring a new city manager?

Dayton city commissioners have approved an $80,000 contract with Raftelis Financial Consultants to lead the search for a new city manager. The firm will manage the recruitment process as current city manager Shelley Dickstein prepares to retire in March 2027.

Why it matters

Securing a new city manager is vital for maintaining the leadership of the local government, which manages a nearly $1 billion budget and 2,000 employees. This recruitment process ensures a professional transition as the city prepares for upcoming administrative changes.

The city signed an $80,000 contract with Raftelis Financial Consultants to facilitate the search, which includes $39,000 in base milestone payments. Additional community engagement services carry costs ranging between $2,500 and $5,500 per option.

The players

Shelley Dickstein

She is the current Dayton city manager who announced plans to retire from her position in March 2027.

Raftelis Financial Consultants

This North Carolina-based firm was hired to oversee the recruitment process for the city's next top administrator.

The details

Raftelis Financial Consultants will develop a candidate profile by conducting meetings with the mayor, commissioners, and the HR director. The search firm will also handle professional advertisements and candidate interviews throughout the coming holiday season.

October 7, 2026: Commissioners approved the consultant contract.
Through December 31, 2026: The duration of the contract with the firm.
March 2027: The scheduled retirement date for the city manager.

Market Landscape

Dayton's contract with a private consultancy follows the standard industry practice for identifying high-level municipal leadership as outlined in national executive search frameworks. This move positions the city to maintain stability in its operations while competing for executive talent.

Residents may see opportunities for community participation in the candidate selection process as the firm seeks local input. The transition will eventually determine who manages the city's $1 billion budget and its 2,000 employees.

The takeaway

The selection of a new city manager will play a critical role in the future oversight of Dayton's municipal services and fiscal health. Residents should monitor city commission updates to stay informed on how to participate in public engagement sessions scheduled during the recruitment.