HIGH SPRINGS - The city of High Springs is looking for a return to normalcy. After experiencing unprecedented turnover among city officials over the past few months, commissioners are now trying to settle the high drama in High Springs. 

 

After eliminating the city's fire and police chief positions last year, High Springs faced more turmoil after the city planner and engineer were let go. Adding to the chaos, the previous city manager, Jeri Langman, was fired just last month after commissioners said they were not satisfied with her performance. 

 

On Monday night, commissioners began the search for a new city manager, as they interviewed five candidates for the position: Scott Lippman, Kathleen Margoles, Andrew DeCandis, Isabel Smith and Edwin Booth. A sixth candidate, Doug Hewitt, was not able to make Monday night's meeting. Speaking before the meeting, High Springs commissioner and vice-mayor Bob Barnas says the board was looking for someone with more governmental experience to fill the position.

 

A final decision on the new city manager will not be be made for at least a few weeks, with some commissioners saying it could even take several months.