Story and photo by JENNA BAILEY
On July 29, from 3 to 6 p.m. the DeFuniak Springs City Council conducted interviews for the city clerk position. The interviews took place at city hall in the council chambers.
The council interviewed two candidates by the names of Rebecca Podraza (Freeport, FL) and Maryanne Schrader (O’Fallon, IL). Interview questions included 1) Why are you interested in leaving you current place of employment?; 2) In your opinion, what should be the qualities of our city clerk?; 3) Please elaborate on your knowledge of Florida Sunshine Law and Florida Public Records Law. 4) In your experience, what is the key to ensuring the city is compliant with all laws, regulations and standards relating to the city clerk’s area of responsibility? 5) Please elaborate on your knowledge and experience assisting with the administration of a municipal election. 6) What have been some of your experiences in dealing with the public? Share an experience you had in dealing with a difficult person and how you handled the situation. 7) Tell us how you organize, plan and prioritize your workload. 8) Please elaborate on your experience working for multiple supervisors.
Schrader was offered the city clerk position and she accepted. The starting salary will be $52,000 per year. After six months, the salary will be raised to $60,000. Schrader will start work in September of 2019.