Application deadline for the Escalon City Manager post is fast approaching, with a Wednesday, July 31 date set.

City Finance Director Tammy Alcantor said the city has received “eight or nine” applications so far for the position. Applications must be mailed in or hand-delivered, as electronic applications are not accepted.

The city is looking for a new manager, with John Abrew recently leaving that post.

As part of the recruitment information available on the city’s website, Escalon is described as “an attractive City of 7,208 residents, in a productive area of San Joaquin County.”

The city also has a low crime rate and is situated along Highway 120, between the Bay area and the Mother Lode.

With a recently adopted 2013-14 fiscal year operating budget of $2.9 million, the new city manager would take on the role of overseeing the city’s staff and working in cooperation with the various departments to meet the needs of city residents and keep the city operating within its budget parameters. City departments include police, public works, development services, recreation, finance, transit and human resources.

Members of the city council have some traits in mind for their ‘ideal candidate’ as listed in the application information.

“The City Council is looking for a candidate who shares their vision regarding the role of the City in working on issues directly affecting the residents of Escalon,” the information states. “The ideal candidate will possess a unique combination of interpersonal, organizational and management attributes in providing focused leadership and a guiding vision for the City.”

Among the requirements, a bachelor’s degree in public or business administration or related field, though a master’s degree is preferred. Candidates are asked to submit a cover letter, application, résumé and three professional references by 5 p.m. on Wednesday, July 31 at City Hall, 2060 McHenry Ave., Escalon.