City Council outlines process for selecting Dover’s next city manager

posted on: 7/23/2026

The Dover City Council has outlined the process it will use to select the city’s next city manager, following City Manager J. Michael Joyal Jr.’s announcement that he will retire at the end of the year.

Joyal announced July 9 that he intends to retire from his position as city manager, effective Dec. 31, 2026, after more than 33 years of service to the city of Dover, including the last 21 years as city manager.

Mayor Dennis Shanahan said the City Council has reviewed the requirements of the city charter and developed a plan to begin the search by first seeking qualified candidates from within the city organization.

“After a careful review of the requirements of Dover’s charter, the City Council has developed a plan to select the next city manager,” Shanahan said. “The first step will be to solicit interest from qualified candidates among current city employees. The council believes this approach recognizes the depth of experience and talent within the organization while also allowing us to move through the process in a deliberate and orderly way.”

Current city employees interested in being considered for the position are asked to submit a resume and cover letter to the mayor by noon on Friday, Aug. 7. The cover letter should detail the candidate’s experience, qualifications and training for the position of city manager, as outlined in the city charter.

The City Council will review the letters of interest and qualifications and determine which candidates will be interviewed. After the interview process, the council will make a selection.

If a qualified candidate is not found through the internal process, the City Council will initiate a broader search.

“This is one of the most important responsibilities of the City Council,” Shanahan said. “The city manager plays a central role in the day-to-day operation of municipal government, the implementation of City Council goals and the long-term stewardship of the city. We are committed to a process that is thoughtful, fair and focused on the best interests of Dover.”

Joyal first joined the city in 1992 as an intern while completing graduate studies. He was hired as assistant to the city manager in 1993, was named assistant city manager in 1995, and was appointed city manager in 2005.

Joyal has said he will work with the mayor and City Council in the months ahead to help ensure a smooth transition.

The City Council will provide additional information about the process as it moves forward.