Development Services Director Jarod Nygren will serve as Kalispell’s interim city manager after Doug Russell departs later this month.  

The Kalispell City Council on Monday unanimously appointed Nygren to fill Russell’s shoes as the city looks for a new city manager over the next four to six months.  

“I think this is a testament to our current city manager,” said Councilor Jed Fisher. “Not only do we have [Nygren], we had a couple other people who are very qualified ... I think it’s part of building a good staff.” 

Council has known of Russell’s departure since the beginning of July. He is stepping down on Aug. 20 after 13 years directing the municipality's daily operations. Russell is headed to Lakewood, Washington where he will serve as that municipality’s city manager beginning Aug. 25. 

“While I am excited about starting this new position, I am also very appreciative to have served as the city manager in Kalispell for the last 13 years,” Russell said in an emailed statement to the Inter Lake in July. “I feel blessed to have been able to work for this community, current and past City Councils, and with the employees of this organization.” 

Lakewood has a population of about 64,000 people and is located south of Tacoma and near Joint Base Lewis-McCord. It is more than double the size of Kalispell.  

Council has discussed creating a subcommittee to lead the search for a new city manager, but Russell recommended appointing an interim city manager in the meantime. Council is expected to consider hiring a recruitment firm as well, according to a past city memo.  

“To see the level of the people that you have built on your team is quite incredible and I think this will serve Kalispell well until we figure out what we will do next,” Councilor Fisher told Russell.  

Nygren began as interim city manager on Tuesday, allowing for some overlap before Russell leaves. During the overlap, Nygren will have the authority for all signatories and will receive a salary adjustment to better reflect his new role, Russell said. 

“I have full confidence in Mr. Nygren and his ability to fulfill the position as interim manager,” Councilor Ryan Hunter said.  

Nygren could not immediately be reached for comment. 

Reporter Kate Heston may be reached at 758-4459 or [email protected].