What talents and qualities do you want to see in a new city manager? What past experiences or professional background should he or she have?

Change is coming to Virginia Beach city government. For the first time in 24 years, the City Council must choose a new city manager. James K. Spore will retire on Jan. 1, 2016. He began his tenure in Virginia Beach in 1991.

Virginia Beach has a council-manager form of government. All 11 City Council members, including the mayor, are directly elected by citizens. The City Council appoints the city manager. Each has a different set of responsibilities. The City Council sets policies; the city manager and his or her staff carry them out. For a more detailed explanation of the council-manager form of government, click here.

The City Council is conducting a nationwide search for a new city manager. Three town hall meetings will be held so City Council members can discuss the issue with constituents. This Virtual Town Hall is an effort to include people who cannot attend a meeting in person.