By BECKY KISER
Hays Post

Last week was the last Hays city commission meeting for James Meier. He is moving to Wichita to become the in-patient pharmacy manager at Saint Francis hospital.

Meier was given a plaque and key to the city in thanks for his service as a commissioner.

“I have really appreciated serving with all of you and previous commissioners too,” Meier said, “and also the city staff. They’re the folks that don’t get a lot of attention but they really do make all of us look really good. They’re very thoughtful.”

The city commission will appoint a replacement to Meier’s unexpired term at their Thursday meeting. Hays Mayor Henry Schwaller says several interested residents have contacted commissioners.

Also departing is Assistant City Manager Jacob Wood whose last day with the city was April 26. Wood is the new deputy city manager for Salina.

City Manager Toby Dougherty says no selection process is yet in motion for Wood’s replacement.

“The position will be vacant for a period until I determine it’s time to open the position up publicly, and at this time I haven’t determined when that’s going to be.”