The salary range for the next city manager will be between $100,000 and $130,000, the city council unanimously decided at its Monday night meeting.

"I think we should step up to the plate. We’re a growing community, so we have to pay more than we have been," said Councilor Ken Hays.

Councilor Paul McHugh said, "I agree. We should be prepared to pay what we have to pay."

Lane Youngblood from Waldron and Co., the city’s Seattle-based search firm, addressed the council follow-

ing a 20-minute executive

session.

She said applicants are aware of the city’s economic problems and the area’s cost

of living, so many want to know the position’s salary range.

"I’m recommending something close to $95,000 to $120,000 or $125,000. That’s a suitable step up from your department heads and a rational range given the city’s economic condition," Youngblood said.

After discussing, the council agreed to increase the salary range beyond her recommendation.

Linda Herzog has been

Sequim’s interim city manager since December.

In May 2008, council members fired City Manager Bill Elliott and had Police Chief Bob Spinks fill that role until they hired Herzog.