Item 3.13 Approve Hiring for the Assistant Finance Director Position
Request for
City Council Action
DEPARTMENT INFORMATION
ORIGINATING DEPARTMENT REQUESTOR: MEETING DATE:
Finance HR/Payroll Coordinator Larsen November 9, 2026
PRESENTER(s) REVIEWED BY: ITEM #:
Consent City Administrator/Finance Director Flaherty 3.13 – Hiring Approval
STRATEGIC VISION
MEETS: THE CITY OF OTSEGO:
X Is a strong organization that is committed to leading the community through innovative communication.
Has proactively expanded infrastructure to responsibly provide core services.
Is committed to delivery of quality emergency service responsive to community needs and expectations in a
cost-effective manner.
X Is a social community with diverse housing, service options, and employment opportunities.
Is a distinctive, connected community known for its beauty and natural surroundings.
AGENDA ITEM DETAILS
RECOMMENDATION:
City staff recommend the City Council approve the hiring of the Assistant Finance Director.
ARE YOU SEEKING APPROVAL OF A CONTRACT? IS A PUBLIC HEARING REQUIRED?
No No
BACKGROUND/JUSTIFICATION:
City Staff are recommending the City Council approve the hiring of Erika Pudas for the position of Assistant Finance
Director. Upon receipt of the conditional offer, Erika has completed all pre-employment screening with favorable results.
This was preceded by a recruitment process involving 16 applicants, and an invitation to eight candidates for interviews.
This role will assist in managing the daily operations of the City’s Finance Department, including bank reconciliations,
cash and investment management, budget development and monitoring, financial reporting, policy and procedure
development, internal controls, and risk management. The position will also serve as a supervisor to City Finance
Department staff members and play a major role in the preparation and presentation of financial information to the City
Council, advisory commissions, and other community-based organizations.
Pending approval, Erika has indicated a start date of Monday, November 23, 2026.
SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS ATTACHED:
• None
POSSIBLE MOTION
PLEASE WORD MOTION AS YOU WOULD LIKE IT TO APPEAR IN THE MINUTES:
Motion to approve the hiring of Erika Pudas to the position of Assistant Finance Director at Grade 13, Step 1.
BUDGET INFORMATION
FUNDING: BUDGETED:
General Fund – Finance Department (41600)
Yes (2027). Costs in 2026 are available due to employees
currently on personal leave periods.