Who is Best Qualified to Be Appointed as New Belize City Administrator?

Last night, we told you that the Belize City Council is still without a city administrator. The post became vacant following the unfortunate and untimely passing of former city administrator Stephanie Lindo-Garbutt. Reports indicate that at least three applications have been submitted. According to reports, among the applicants are former city councillor Albert Vaughn and the Party’s Secretary General Linsford Castillo. The move to fill one of the most powerful seats in the city appears to be causing some tension. A group of six recently elected councillors wrote and signed a letter to Mayor Bernard Wagner saying that they wanted to be a part of the decision-making process. In their letter, the councillors noted that a suitable, qualified person must be appointed to the post of city administrator. Mayor Wagner responded in writing, denying the request. Further reports indicate that there is a rift at the central government level between Ministers Francis Fonseca and Anthony Mahler over which candidate is best qualified for the position. Today, we asked Minister Mahler about it. Here is what he told us.

 

Anthony Mahler, Area Representative, Pickstock

“I would just hope that the city council selects the most qualified person. That is the most important management position in the council. That position drives everything for the council. That person should have the highest level of integrity. Capacity is very important, and I will stress, capacity is very important. So, we will see where it goes from there.”

 

Paul Lopez

“Do you have someone you favor for this position?”

 

Anthony Mahler

“No, I just want them to make the right decision.”

 

Paul Lopez

“Has the city administrator decision created any sort of rift between you and Minister Fonseca?”

 

Anthony Mahler

“No, actually I was a pleasant presentation yesterday in Belmopan. If you could go on his Facebook, you could see it. We had lunch together. WE had some good discussions with ambassadors from across the world and they play an important role in getting Belize out there as well. So it is a continued partnership and that is that.”