Jamie Miller is set to commence her role as the City Manager of Morgantown, officially starting her employment no later than June 23. Her base annual salary is established at $175,000. The Morgantown City Council confirmed Miller’s appointment during a special session that lasted approximately 90 seconds, with unanimous approval of her hiring.
Miller, who currently holds the position of city manager in Paris, Kentucky, was chosen from a group of three finalists after conducting in-person interviews with the council. However, the city has opted not to disclose the names of the other candidates, emphasizing the importance of maintaining privacy for the individuals involved in the selection process.
As part of her compensation package, Miller will receive several benefits. These include a city contribution equal to 13.5% of her annual salary to a retirement plan through the International City Managers Association. Additionally, she will be provided with a $600 monthly allowance to offset vehicle expenses and either a mobile phone or a $60 monthly allowance for phone costs. She will also begin her tenure with 40 hours of paid time off, accruing PTO at a rate of 9.25 hours per pay period.
Residency requirements have been a topic of recent discussion within the city, prompting a potential city charter change currently under voter consideration. The employment contract specifies that Morgantown must be Miller’s primary residence. To facilitate this, the city will cover up to $15,000 in relocation expenses and an additional $15,000 for transitional housing, equating to $2,500 per month for a maximum of six months. Furthermore, Miller will receive 24 hours of paid administrative leave to assist with her relocation process. Should she decide to depart from her position within two years, she will be required to repay all relocation and transitional housing expenses.
The Morgantown City Council plans to conduct a performance review with Miller within six months of her employment start and at least once annually thereafter. Her salary will also undergo an annual review by the council, with the potential for increments. Miller brings a wealth of experience to the role, having previously served as the interim city manager in Port Orange, Florida, and as the city manager in Paris, Kentucky.
Miller succeeds Kim Haws, who retired in December following a distinguished career, including two decades as the city manager in Bridgeport and previous managerial roles in Ohio and Arizona. Haws began his role in Morgantown in December 2020 with a salary of $150,000, which was increased to $154,500 in January 2023. Since his departure, Damien Davis, Director of Engineering and Public Works, has operated as the interim city manager.
