Title
Consider a memorandum/resolution approving the appointment of an Executive Director of Communications and Marketing.
Body
DATE: May 20, 2025
TO: Kent Cagle, City Manager
FROM: Kate McDaniel, Executive Director of Human Resources
SUBJECT: Appointment of an Executive Director of Communications and Marketing
BACKGROUND AND FINDINGS:
On May 30, 2025, the position of Executive Director of Communications and Marketing will become vacant.
The City advertised for the position through local, state, and national channels, and received nineteen (19) applications from candidates who met the minimum qualifications for the position. Ten (10) semi-finalists were asked to submit a writing and video sample, in addition to completing a questionnaire. The City narrowed the candidates to four (4) finalists. The finalists were interviewed on May 1, 2025, by a panel of City leadership and member of the Communications and Marketing team.
Mrs. Wilson extended a conditional job offer to Ms. Torrie Bethany. Ms. Bethany has more than thirteen (13) years of experience in the communications and marketing field. She has spent the majority of her career serving in the public sector realm in the areas of San Antonio and Austin where she most recently worked as the Communications Director for the National Domestic Violence Hotline.
Ms. Bethany received her Bachelor of Arts in Communications/Journalism & Marketing from Our Lady of the Lake University in San Antonio, Texas.
Ms. Bethany’s offer of employment beginning June 2, 2025, is conditioned upon confirmation by the Killeen City Council.
THE ALTERNATIVES CONSIDERED:
N/A
Which alternative is recommended? Why?
N/A
CONFORMITY TO CITY POLICY:
This action conforms to city policy. Executive director appointments are subject to approval by the City Council pursuant to Section 29 of the City Charter.
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
What is the amount of the revenue/expenditure in the current fiscal year? For future years?
The annual base salary of the position is $130,000, plus a $3,000 annual car allowance, and associated benefits. The prorated amount through the end of the fiscal year 2025 is estimated at $57,336.04 salary and benefits.
Is this a one-time or recurring revenue/expenditure?
This is a recurring expenditure.
Is this revenue/expenditure budgeted?
Yes, funds are available in the General Fund, Multimedia salary and benefits accounts 100-51110-140-141-000000 thru 100-51700-140-141-000000.
If not, where will the money come from?
N/A
Is there a sufficient amount in the budgeted line-item for this revenue/expenditure?
Yes
RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends that the City Council approve the Assistant City Manager's appointment of Ms. Torrie Bethany as the City of Killeen’s Executive Director of Communications and Marketing.
DEPARTMENTAL CLEARANCES:
• City Manager
• City Attorney’s Office
• Finance
ATTACHED SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS:
Resume
Presentation