Fehr says goodbye Part 4: Longtime colleagues of city manager bid farewell

In our fourth and final installment of our news series reflecting on Fehr’s long career in Manhattan, we hear from some of those who worked with him both on the commission and as a competitor.

City Hall will look a bit different next week as Manhattan City Manager Ron Fehr officially turns in his keys.

Since April 2000, Fehr has occupied the City Manager’s office. He’s been on the city’s payroll since January 1982, starting out as the forestry and parks supervisor in the newly-formed Parks and Recreation Department. Becoming the head of city government was not something Fehr ever envisioned happening, but says he’s enjoyed seeing some of the projects he’s worked on come to fruition.

Since 2000, Fehr has worked under 23 different city commissioners and even more than that prior to becoming city manager. He understood he was always three votes away from not having a job. As the political pendulum on the commission swung back and forth over the years, Fehr credits his longevity in the position to relationships he formed with his bosses.

Thursday is officially Ron Fehr Day in Manhattan, following a proclamation made Tuesday by Mayor Wynn Butler at the city commission meeting. Butler spoke with KMAN about Fehr’s commitment to the city.

Commissioners John Matta and Karen McCulloh thanked Fehr for his service Tuesday night.

Junction City Manager Allen Dinkel says his relationship with Fehr has always been strong despite being competitors for economic development opportunities.

Fehr will be recognized during a public retirement reception Thursday afternoon at 3 p.m. at City Hall.