Robert Street in West St. Paul

West St. Paul Lets Long-Time Community Development Director Go

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West St. Paul’s new city manager didn’t waste any time, parting ways with the community development director this week.

“I wasn’t fired, but I’m not working there anymore,” Jim Hartshorn told the Pioneer Press. Hartshorn has worked at the city since 2003.

City Manager Nate Burkett started May 3 and approached Hartshorn about the change on Monday.

West St. Paul has had three straight years of record-breaking economic development, with a current redevelopment boom, including the biggest project in city history in the $122 million apartment project at the former K-mart site.

Mayor Dave Napier noted city staffing is not a council decision and is entirely up to the city manager. While he had questions for Burkett, Napier said he “support[s] the city manager’s ability to run his team.”

“I can say I’m proud of the 18 years I’ve worked there,” Hartshorn said in the Pioneer Press. “I’m proud of all the successful projects, and I wish them luck. It’s time to move on.”

Local coverage only happens thanks to your support.

(Photo Credit: Peter Ladd)

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