Dolores Town Manager Jay Ruybalid has resigned after serving for one year.
He confirmed on Tuesday that he recently gave three-weeks notice, but declined a Journal request for comment on his resignation.
Ruybalid was hired in July 2018, after the previous manager, David Stahl, quit after three months.
In a statement, Dolores Mayor Chad Wheelus said it was “unfortunate” that the town is again in the position of searching for a town manager.
“Mr. Ruybalid’s reasons for leaving are his, and the town has to move forward,” he said.
The Town Board will hold a special meeting Aug. 26 after the board workshop to discuss strategies for a path forward to find a new manager. The workshop begins at 6:30 p.m.
The town is reaching out to the Colorado Municipal League and the Colorado Department of Local Affairs for assistance, Wheelus said.
It has been a challenge for Dolores to find a manager with a long-term commitment.
Former manager Ryan Mahoney resigned in 2013 after four years. The Town Board advertised and interviewed for a replacement but did not get any candidates that satisfied trustees.
Lana Hancock, who was serving as clerk and treasurer, agreed to take on additional manager duties for four years. She resigned at the end of 2017 to serve as Dolores County Clerk.
Other small towns also struggle with finding a long-term manager, Wheelus said. For example, Silverton has had nine town administrators in the last 12 years.
“I certainly hope Dolores can avoid that kind of situation,” Wheelus said. “But finding a good fit is really difficult.”
When Ruybalid was hired, the salary range for the Dolores town manager position was between $65,000 and $75,000.
As manager, Ruybalid moved the playground project forward, supported needs of the senior center program, negotiated a community orchard agreement at Joe Rowell Park, and obtained a $25,000 planning grant. He also applied for $80,000 grant for playground equipment, and the town is a finalist for approval.
jmimiaga@the-journal.com
