Getting known while getting to know Osky

By ANDY GOODELL
The Oskaloosa Herald

OSKALOOSA June 18, 2009 07:17 pm

— Michael Schrock Jr. has earned a position of leadership in Oskaloosa.
As the newly sworn in city manager of Oskaloosa, the 31-year-old has a lot to get used to, but he couldn’t be happier.
For about a month and a half before officially being sworn in as city manager of Oskaloosa at this past Monday’s city council meeting, Schrock familiarized himself with the community and city departments. Interim City Manager and current City Attorney Randy DeGeest helped Schrock in this process.
“I would have regular contact with Randy,” said Schrock. “It was just a matter of reading the newspaper and staying informed to see what was going on with some of the issues.”
Originally from Tucson, Ariz., Schrock was previously employed by the city of Surprise, Ariz.
A self-described “quiet guy,” Schrock said being recognized in the community will take some getting used to.
“Everyone’s friendly,” said Schrock laughing a bit. “I have to get used to being recognized. I’m fine with that. I like the idea of being part of the community.”
He worked as the management and budget director for the Phoenix suburb of Surprise, Ariz., for six-and-a-half years before coming to Oskaloosa. Starting out as an intern there, Schrock would eventually become responsible for putting together the city’s operating and capital budgets, among other duties.
This experience motivated Schrock to seek out a city management position.
“Once I got the budget experience in that role as budget director, I think that was kind of that last piece to say ‘OK, I’m ready to move on to management,’” explained Schrock.
Schrock graduated from Arizona State University with a bachelor’s degree in justice studies. He then earned a master’s degree in public administration from the University of Arizona.
Before coming to work for Oskaloosa, Schrock and the other city manager final candidates participated in a two-day-long interview process. During this time, he met with city officials and Oskaloosa business leaders, as well as the public.
During the interview process, Schrock said he felt like any other person applying for a job. He thought he needed to prove he was the best candidate. Schrock quickly realized he had nothing to fear from the friendly demeanor of those he met.
“I felt there was a challenge for me to come from a larger community and prove to them that I am sincerely interested about coming to a smaller community,” he said. “This community has a lot to offer.”
Schrock said he was also impressed by the diversity of businesses operating out of Oskaloosa.
“A lot of places don’t have businesses of that caliber,” said Schrock. “And, of course, the university is a really unique aspect for a community this size.”
During his first week, Schrock has met with city departments to familiarize them with his style of management, as well as learn what their needs are. He’s also continued to try and introduce himself to everyone, including community organizations.
“I’m going to go to Rotary next week,” said Schrock with a smile.
When asked what he likes most about Oskaloosa so far, Schrock said the city square impressed him the most, as well as the “Average Joe” living in Oskaloosa.
“I like the sense of pride that people take in the community,” said Schrock. “I love the downtown and the square is great. I want to make sure we do what we can to keep that a fantastic place.”
In the grand scheme of things, developing ways to obtain more capital for Oskaloosa is a goal of Schrock’s. For now, he wants to do something about the city’s roadways.
“From day one when I got here for my interview, I realized that would be an issue that needed to be addressed immediately,” Schrock said.
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Oskaloosa City Editor Andy Goodell can be reached at news2@oskyherald.com

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