Missouri City’s search for a new city manager is one step closer as three finalists were announced July 16 after conducting a nationwide search.

Strategic Government Resources—a national organization that partners with local governments to recruit employees—narrowed the finalists down from a total of 46 applicants. The finalists include Jersey Village City Manager Mike Castro, Michael Ross, West University Place city manager, and Leonardo Olivares, former city manager for the city of Weslaco.

Although Missouri City officials have not indicated when a new city manager will be hired, Mayor Allen Owen said the new city manager is expected to help further the city’s growth.

“We have been searching for a city manager that is highly responsive to citizen needs and dedicated to exceptional customer service,” Owen said. “Our city manager must be creative, collaborative and [an] innovative leader who is visible and involved in our community.”

Missouri City’s search for a new city manager began in January after former city manager Ed Broussard took the same position in the city of Tyler. Assistant City Manager Bill Atkinson is acting as interim city manager until a candidate is selected.