Warren City Council has narrowed its search for the next city manager down to one.

Council took action during a special meeting Monday night to direct the search committee to negotiate terms with the candidate.

Should an agreement be reached, it would come back before council for consideration.

Councilwoman Wendy McCain called this “such an important decision for our city. We should feel very excited.”

However, she added, “I don’t necessarily feel excited” but would strive for a working relationship with the individual who was not named during Monday’s meeting.

The negotiation power was approved 6-1 with McCain voting in opposition.

City Manager Nancy Freenock said that Oct. 26 would be her last day as city manager and, with a new manager still in the works, recommended Department of Public Works Director Mike Holtz as acting city manager starting Oct. 27.

She said Holtz was borough manager in Kane for about 18 years and has been with the city for 18 tears.

“While I was working remotely and sometimes unavailable, Mike and the chiefs worked together,” Freenock said. “Mike is the one that is most knowledgeable.”

She also highlighted his management experience with the city.

Mayor Dave Wortman said that “undoubtedly the City of Warren is in a much better place under the leadership and her (Freenock’s) tenure.

“While her retirement again is a bittersweet moment, (we) wish her all the best in her retirement days,” he added.

“It’s been my pleasure,” Freenock said. “I think I’ve worked with a truly tremendous and dedicated group of people. (We) have a lot to be proud of. There is still a lot more to go.”