WATERTOWN, S.D.(KXLG)- Watertown’s newly appointed City Manager, Alan Stager, recently provided insight into his initial assessment of the city and his key priorities during his first interview on “From the Halls of City Hall.”

Stager, who has observed numerous City Council meetings prior to his appointment, continues to express optimism about Watertown.

Stager noted that the city’s financial situation is healthy, with excellent controls maintained by the finance office and the Chief Financial Officer, Kristen Bobzien.

Stager said the goal is to develop a “fairly conservative budget” with limited growth in headcount, acknowledging potential “macroeconomic uncertainties” and ensuring the city can operate within its means.

Stager addressed the recently advertised Executive Assistant position, clarifying that it is primarily an administrative role.

The position is listed online as a Grade 140 with a salary: Step 1, $54,974.40 annually, or $4,581.20 monthly. When asked, he replied no, he did not feel it was necessary to have an Assistant City Manager. He also mentioned that he is still evaluating the need for a Public Works Director, preferring to understand the existing team’s dynamics before potentially adding another layer of management.

Stager touched upon national economic factors, such as tariffs and inflation.

Stager acknowledged that rising prices might eventually increase sales tax revenue, but stressed the importance of controlling spending, staffing levels, and discretionary expenditures to weather economic conditions. He cited a recent example where a turf mower supplier transparently listed a tariff as a separate line item, which was helpful for planning purposes.

Stager outlined four primary, overarching goals that will guide his tenure, developed in conversations with the Succession Planning Committee, the Mayor, and the Council, after explaining what drew him to the job.

• Stager explains in more detail the four strategic goals.
• People: To ensure Watertown is the best possible workplace for city employees, focusing on staff development plans and customer service.
• Fiscal and Budget Responsibility: To move beyond excellent financial reporting and apply private-sector financial insights to government administration, understanding the numbers more deeply.
• Strategy and Vision: To work with the Council on long-term initiatives and articulate a clear vision for Watertown’s future, looking five years ahead and developing tactics to achieve those goals.
• Stakeholder Relationships: To strengthen relationships with the many organizations and businesses that interact with the city, including non-profits, the development community, and other governmental agencies, to enhance services for citizens.

Alan Stager was hired as City Manager, effective June 24, 2025.