During a 30-minute special meeting May 25 at Ellsworth City Hall, members of the Ellsworth City Council discussed how to conduct the evaluation for City Administrator Dustin Stambaugh.

The evaluation is scheduled to take place in August.

Mayor Dan Finnegan began the discussion by asking the council what Stambaugh’s priorities should be going forward.

Council President Wayne Scritchfield said Stambaugh should concentrate on two basic things — the city financials and the day-to-day operation of the city.

Council member Tyler Renard agreed, adding the retention of employees and the hiring of new employees is also important.

Finnegan noted Stambaugh has already tackled two big issues — the cyber breech that took place as he started as city administrator nine months ago, and, more recently, the formation of a Krizek Park advisory committee.

Finnegan said he wants to make sure Stambaugh is well-compensated.

“You’re doing a good job,” Finnegan said to Stambaugh. “We want to make sure we protect our investment.”

Finnegan said he would like to see the city better communicate with the community.

“If you can do that, you’re going to see a lot of changes occur,” Finnegan said.

Stambaugh noted he has established a good working relationship with the council.

“You all have been very supportive,” he said.

Stambaugh said he has been adding to his email list to communicate better with the public as well as conducting town hall meetings.

“We are getting better,” he said.

Finnegan said this process will continue to be added to.