The City of Fruita has shortlisted four candidates for its open City Manager position, concluding a competitive process that saw 43 applicants vying for the role. The announcement was made Friday, December 20, marking a significant step forward in the city’s search for its next leader.
Each of the finalists brings a wealth of experience from diverse municipal leadership roles. A public meet-and-greet has been scheduled to introduce them to the community on January 9th at the Fruita Community Center.
Meet the Finalists: Leadership Profiles
Jay Harrington: Routt County Veteran with Decades of Management Experience
Jay Harrington, a seasoned municipal leader, has served as County Manager for Routt County, Colorado, since 2021. His extensive résumé includes a decade-long tenure as Town Manager for Carbondale, Colorado, from 2011 to 2021. Beyond these roles, Harrington has also held various positions such as Interim Director and City Planner across multiple communities.
With a career built on diverse responsibilities, Harrington is noted for his strategic planning and community development initiatives. His reputation as a collaborative leader has earned him widespread recognition in Colorado’s municipal circles.
Keith Rinehart: A Texas Leader Focused on Economic Growth and Community Development
Keith Rinehart currently serves as Director of Community and Economic Development for the City of Saginaw, Texas, a position he has held since 2020. His career in Saginaw spans nearly two decades, where he previously managed Recreation and Community Services, overseeing initiatives that enriched local amenities and programs.
Rinehart’s involvement extends beyond his professional duties. His volunteer efforts with organizations such as Habitat for Humanity and Keep Saginaw Beautiful have cemented his commitment to fostering vibrant, sustainable communities.
Drew Sanders: Law Enforcement Expertise with a Municipal Leadership Focus
Drew Sanders, City Manager for Cortez, Colorado, since 2021, brings a unique background in law enforcement. His prior roles include serving as Chief of Police for Page, Arizona, and holding a long-term position with the West Jordan Police Department in Utah.
Sanders also contributes to academia as an Adjunct Professor at the University of Utah, blending practical leadership with theoretical knowledge. His diverse career reflects an ability to adapt and lead across various domains.
Shannon Vassen: Fruita’s Interim City Manager and Internal Candidate
Shannon Vassen, currently serving as Fruita’s Interim City Manager, has been an integral part of the city’s administration since 2021. Vassen’s rise through the ranks—from Management Analyst to Assistant City Manager—demonstrates a deep familiarity with Fruita’s operations and community needs.
Before joining Fruita, Vassen gained valuable experience with the City and County of Denver and Mesa County Department of Human Services, equipping him with insights into both urban and regional governance.
What’s Next for Fruita?
The City of Fruita has organized a public meet-and-greet event for Thursday, January 9th, allowing residents to interact with the candidates. Scheduled from 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the Fruita Community Center, the session aims to foster transparency and community involvement in the decision-making process.
This phase is crucial as the city evaluates not just professional expertise but also the candidates’ potential to align with Fruita’s vision for growth and community development.
Table: Key Highlights of Finalists
| Candidate | Current Role | Notable Experience | Unique Contributions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jay Harrington | County Manager, Routt County, CO | Town Manager for Carbondale, CO (2011–2021) | Extensive planning and leadership expertise |
| Keith Rinehart | Director, Community & Economic Development, Saginaw, TX | Recreation & Community Services Director (2004–2020) | Strong focus on community enrichment |
| Drew Sanders | City Manager, Cortez, CO | Chief of Police, Page, AZ (2019–2021) | Blends municipal management with public safety |
| Shannon Vassen | Interim City Manager, Fruita, CO | Assistant City Manager, Fruita (2023–Present) | Deep understanding of Fruita’s operations |
Public Participation: A Key Component
The City Manager selection process places significant emphasis on community input. By inviting residents to the meet-and-greet, Fruita demonstrates its commitment to a participatory approach in selecting the city’s next leader.
As the candidates prepare to present their visions for Fruita’s future, the final decision will balance professional qualifications with community alignment. The stakes are high, as the new City Manager will play a pivotal role in shaping Fruita’s policies and initiatives in the years ahead.
