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O'Neill Impresses In Interim Role

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By CHRISTIAN M. WADE, The Tampa Tribune

Published: January 10, 2008

NEW PORT RICHEY - Tom O'Neill took the reins of this west Pasco County municipality less than a month ago, and since then, he's earned good grades from his colleagues.

So good, in fact, that some want to offer the interim city manager a permanent job.

"He's got my vote," said Mayor Dan Tipton.

"I think that would be an excellent idea."

While there's nothing in writing just yet, there is talk around City Hall of considering the former public works director for the city's top job sometime in the next couple of months.

Tipton said he has talked with O'Neill about it, and he's up for the challenge.

"He lives in the city, has more than 34 years of experience here, and he's a good man," Tipton said.

"With someone like that, we don't need to search for a manager from outside."

A poll of council members suggests that O'Neill has more than enough support to get the job.

Councilman Rob Marlowe said he, for one, likely would support the move.

"He's been here forever and knows the city like the back of his hand," Marlowe said.

Still, even council members who like the idea of hiring O'Neill want the city to explore its options.

Council members hadn't planned to begin seeking a permanent replacement until after the April 8 municipal elections, and even then the search could take months.

"That should be a decision for after the election," said Deputy Mayor Ginny Miller.

"But I hope he applies for the opening. He's done a good job, and I think he should go for it."

Councilwoman Marilynn deChant said she, also, would like to see the city get though the upcoming elections and interview other candidates before offering the job to O'Neill.

"Everybody loves Tom. He's doing a great job," she said.

"But fresh eyes are good, too."

O'Neill took over as interim manager Dec. 14, replacing Scott Miller, who took a job as city administrator in Leavenworth, Kan., a city of about 35,000.

Miller, 57, was hired in November 2004, replacing 16-year manager Gerald Seeber.

Miller's departure left Pasco County's largest city without a permanent manager at a time when officials are struggling to maintain services amid state-mandated tax reforms.

Miller also left behind several unfinished downtown redevelopment projects.

O'Neill, 54, was hired in the public works department in 1974 and worked his way up through the rank and file to become assistant director and, eventually, head of the department in 1989.

Councilman Bob Consalvo said he also supports offering the job to O'Neill.

"After seeing what some other cities have gone through trying to hire a manager, I'd rather have someone who has already made a commitment to stay here," he said.

Reporter Christian M. Wade can be reached at (727) 815-1082 or cwade@tampatrib.com.

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