Olivette Mayor Issues Statement Concerning Leadership Team

In light of Olivette losing two of the key players on the management team, Mayor Arthur Merdinian has released an official statement on their behalf and on behalf of the City of Olivette.

“As you may know two of our most esteemed city leaders, Fire Chief John Bailot and City Manager Mike McDowell have been chosen to serve in their respective positions with the cities of Ladue and Wentzville. Their ability to move along in their chosen profession is a tribute to the quality of staff serving Olivette.

Although both gentlemen will be sorely missed by our staff, elected officials, and citizens of Olivette, I pledge to our community that we will select and hire two quality individuals to fill those positions. Interim decision making responsibilities will be announced shortly and our search for permanent replacements is already underway.”

Arthur Merdinian

Mayor

City of Olivette

Fire Chief John Bailot’s first day on the job in Ladue will be Feb. 25 and the chief indicated he would talk to Patch in more detail at that time. He came on board in Olivette in October, 2008.

The contract for the fire chief calls for him to be paid $100,000 per year. Bailot was paid $94,372 under the terms of his most recent contract with Olivette.

“In the meantime, I am employed by the City of Olivette and that’s where my attention will be,” said the chief.