Impressed by Lawrence’s sense of community, city manager finalists hope to make a difference

Both candidates for the position of Lawrence city manager said the city’s sense of community appeals to them and that they intend to improve on it if they’re hired.

The city announced Wednesday that the two finalists are Susan Sherman and Craig Owens. Sherman, originally from Ada, Ohio, is currently the assistant city manager for Olathe. Owens, originally from Overland Park, is the city manager of Clayton, Mo.

Both Sherman and Owens are graduates of the University of Kansas Master of Public Administration program and are International City/County Management Association Credentialed Managers.