From a press release posted to the City of Carthage website on July 13, 2023 signed by Mayor Dan Rife
CARTHAGE, Mo. — The City of Carthage Mayor is compelled to address and categorically refute recent allegations questioning the qualifications of our esteemed City Administrator, Greg Dagnan. In the interest of transparency and to set the record straight, we would like to provide unequivocal evidence of his exemplary qualifications and expertise that make him eminently qualified for the position.
On March 30, 2022, Council Member Ed Barlow requested a special session to discuss the employment of then City Administrator as soon as possible. The request was seconded by Council Member Thompson and Council Member Armstrong. Pursuant to that lawful request, On April 1, 2022 the City Council of Carthage went into closed session to discuss hiring, firing, disciplining or promoting of particular employees. The members in attendance were: Juan Topete, Robin Harrison, David Armstrong, Mike Daugherty, Ceri Otero, Alan Snow, Seth Thompson and Ed Barlow. The minutes of that meeting reflect unanimous acceptance of the resignation of the former City Administrator. Motions were made to accept the appointment of Greg Dagnan as City Administrator with his salary to be at Grade AA, Step 1 of the city’s salary schedule for the City Administrator’s position, the motions carried unanimously.
Mr. Dagnan brought an extensive and familiar background to his role as City Administrator. With 15 years of experience as our police chief and a proven track record of effective leadership, he has demonstrated his unwavering commitment to the progress and prosperity of our beloved city. He exceeds the qualifications necessary in the City Code, with a Bachelor’s in Criminal Justice, Law Enforcement Administration and a Master’s Degree in Human Resource Management.
Prior to his hiring as City Administrator, a committee was formed to outline the newly created position of Assistant City Administrator. The position was offered to Mr. Dagnan and from July 2021 to January 2022 Mr. Dagnan transitioned from Police Chief to Assistant City Administrator. Beginning January 2022 the council approved his hiring as Assistant City Administrator without requiring him to relocate, at the pay scale outlined in the City Salary Study, all with the written understanding that this position would transition to City Administrator in the event that position became available. His hiring as the Assistant City Administrator was unanimously approved by the City Council.
During his tenure as City Administrator, Mr. Dagnan has successfully spearheaded numerous initiatives that have yielded tangible benefits for our community. Under his astute guidance, we have witnessed significant improvements in public infrastructure, economic growth, and the overall quality of life in the City. His ability to forge collaborative partnerships with diverse stakeholders, streamline bureaucratic processes, has garnered widespread acclaim.
It is crucial to recognize that allegations questioning Mr. Dagnan’s qualifications are not only unfounded but also undermine the integrity of our city administration. Such baseless assertions serve only to distract from the immense progress we have achieved.
The Carthage administration remains committed to the principles of transparency, accountability, and open dialogue. We encourage any concerned citizens or organizations to engage in constructive conversations to address their queries or reservations. Together, we can work collaboratively to ensure the continued success and prosperity of our great city.
Mayor Dan Rife
