The search for Dakota County's new county manager is now in the final stretch, with interviews for the five candidates set for June 24, according to the county's announcement. The Dakota County Board of Commissioners narrowed the field from 15 semifinalists to these five finalists after the May 23 retirement of Matt Smith, the former county manager. Those in the running are Scott Arneson, Georg Fischer, David McKnight, Justin Miller, and Heidi Welsch.

The selection process, which initially drew 52 applicants, will continue with community input. A public event is scheduled for 5 p.m. on June 24 at the Western Service Center in Apple Valley, where community stakeholders can meet and engage with the finalists. The board is then slated to convene the following day for further discussions about the candidates.

Among the finalists, Scott Arneson brings a long track record as a county administrator from Goodhue County, Minnesota, with an impressive 17-year tenure. He also boasts educational credentials that include a doctorate in leadership, according to the county announcement. Georg Fischer, a candidate who's already part of Dakota County’s team, directs the Physical Development Division and has a sturdy background with the Minnesota Air National Guard.

David McKnight's profile in municipal management positions him as a seasoned candidate with experience in various Minnesota cities. In charge of Dakota County’s Enterprise Finance and Information Services Division for two years, he enters the race equipped with a unique blend of tech and fiscal expertise. Justin Miller comes from a current city administrator position in Lakeville, Minnesota, and has, likewise served in various capacities across Minnesota municipalities. And, Heidi Welsch, the final contender, serves as the county administrator for Olmsted County, rounding out a pool of candidates whose careers deeply intertwine with Minnesota's administrative fabric.

The task of selecting a new county manager comes with the weight of expectation. Whoever fills the role will be stepping into the shoes of Matt Smith, who left the office after a tenure that culminated in his retirement. The interim county manager, Tom Novak, temporarily holds the mantle until the board reaches a decision following the upcoming interviews and community event.