Treat Named Next Mercer Island City Manager

Mercer Island Mayor Bruce Bassett today announced that Noel Treat will become the next City Manager, effective Jan. 6, 2014, according to a city press release.

Treat will replace current city manager Rich Conrad, who has served in that role for 17 years. Conrad announced his retirement in January.

The press release follows: 

Treat joined the City staff twelve months ago as Deputy City Manager, and before that served as Deputy Superintendent for the Seattle School District. Based on a unanimous 7-0 Council vote at last night’s City Council Meeting, Treat will succeed Rich Conrad, who is retiring after a distinguished 17-year term.

“We entered this process with very high expectations and a significant list of executive qualifications for potential candidates. Naturally, we were delighted to determine that Noel Treat is already well-qualified to take on the demands of this position. It was an added bonus that we were able to avoid the significant time and cost of a national search.”

“It won’t be easy filling Rich’s shoes, but I’m confident Noel is up for the challenge and has the skills and attitude to take the reins successfully,” said Mayor Bassett.  “As the leader of the City’s recent effort to oppose tolling on I-90, Noel has proven his capabilities in a complex legal and political arena.”

Treat said “I am very honored by this selection and look forward to serving the City Council and all of the Island’s residents in my new role.  I am committed to maintaining our city government’s focus on excellent customer service, and to ensuring that Mercer Island remains one of the most livable communities in the region.”  Treat’s background includes a Bachelor of Arts degree from Colorado College and a law degree from the University of Arizona, followed by several public administration and legal positions within the King County region.

Current City Manager Rich Conrad announced his impending retirement at the beginning of 2013, allowing a year’s notice to make the transition as smooth as possible. Conrad’s career with Mercer Island began in 1979, and includes a number of major City milestones, including a push towards environmental sustainability.

According to Mayor Bassett, “Thanks to his top-notch public service, Rich not only leaves the City in excellent fiscal health despite the recession, but also a quality of life for Island residents virtually unparalleled among other regional communities, and a truly responsive set of social service programs.”

Bassett added that the Council and staff will work closely to ensure the transfer of responsibilities is efficient and timely.