But, the council made it clear that although Daley will work directly for and with Mayor Daniel M. Knapik, the council will keep tabs on his progress in attracting new business and supporting existing business throughout the city.
WESTFIELD - The City Council has overwhelmingly confirmed the appointment of Jeffrey R. Daley as the city's first advancement officer, charged with marketing the city for new business growth.
But, the council made it clear that although Daley will work directly for and with Mayor Daniel M. Knapik, the council will keep tabs on his progress in attracting new business and supporting existing business throughout the city.
Two councilors questioned the appointment process during the 10-2 vote Thursday to confirm the appointment.
Councilors Mary L. O'Connell and David A. Flaherty indicated they wanted a second posting of the position.
"Is Jeff Daley the right person for this position?" asked O'Connell.
"I have a problem with the process," said Flaherty, who added he did not think a fair and open search was conducted before filling the new position.
But other councilors noted this is a mayoral appointment and tied directly with Knapik's term of office.
"This is a mayor's right to put together a team. It is a beginning of what we need to do," said Councilor James E. Brown Jr.
Councilor Patti A. Andras said, "The mayor must have his choice of a team to assist him." Andras told Daley the council, however, will "hold your feet to the fire."
Ward 6 Councilor Christopher M. Crean agreed, noting "Mr. Daley has a year to show progress."
Daley was one of 10 applicants for the new position, created to assist the mayor and other city development and planning departments not only to market Westfield to new business but to assist existing business in any expansion or retention plans.
The focus of the advancement officer immediately will be on 66 acres on Cabot Road, which the mayor is touting for creation of an environmentally friendly technology park, and Barnes Municipal Airport. Also, the officer will be responsible for securing grants to assist the city in funding related activities.
Daley, a Westfield resident, is a former director of the Greater Westfield Chamber of Commerce and currently a senior policy advisor to the state Department of Conservation and Recreation.
He was one of two persons interviewed for the new position. The other was Marc R. Rousseau, of New Bedford, former director of planning and community development for the city of Easton.
Daley is expected to begin work here within two weeks after reaching contract terms with the mayor. The position was advertised with a salary of $55,000 to $75,000.