Amarillo names interim city manager after Path resignation

AMARILLO, Texas (KFDA) - The city of Amarillo has chosen an interim city manager following the resignation of former City Manager Grayson Path.

Rodney Rhoades, who has nearly 40 years of local government experience, will serve as interim city manager while the city searches for a permanent hire.

In September, City Council accepted Path’s resignation, which cited ongoing challenges.

Rhoades has 36 years of experience in government operations and administration with cities, counties and utility districts in Texas.

He previously served as director of finance and operations in Collin County, county executive of Travis County, interim executive director of the Texas Municipal Water District and founder of Rhoades Public Solutions.

Mayor Cole Stanley said Rhoades is good to take on this challenge.

The goal for council is for Rhoades to evaluate all the city departments, determine weaknesses and issues, and propose improvements to council.

The city has scheduled incoming remarks from the incoming interim city manager on Tuesday’s agenda, along with a resolution detailing his monetary and financial benefits.

If approved, Rhoades will receive a salary of $175 an hour, which will come to $364,000 for a year.

He will also receive temporary housing or a monthly housing stipend and reimbursement of all routine business expenses in his role as interim city manager.

Stanley said, “I’m excited to work alongside Mr. Rhoades and look forward to the city moving forward under strong leadership.”

The city has said the plan is to contract Rhoades for six months to a year as they search for a permanent replacement, but said they could expand it depending on performance.

Rhoades is set to speak Tuesday at the regular council meeting, where the council will vote on the agreement.