The process to replace City Manager Jim Hartmann has begun. 
    
While the mayor presides over the city council, the city manager holds a lot of sway in Alexandria and hiring a new one is no small feat, officials said. Mayor Bill Euille and Councilman Paul Smedberg are heading the search for a recruiting company, which they have narrowed down to four from 11, Euille said. 
    
But the selection will be very literally by committee. Three focus groups comprised of handpicked citizens, city staff members and department heads will work with the recruiter inform the final decision, which council hopes to finish this summer.
    
Its a rather aggressive timeline for us to get to a decision and, ultimately, a recruitment to be made, Smedberg said.
    
Hartmann announced he would resign earlier this year to seek another position, possibly in Florida. A public hearing is scheduled for April 16 for citizens to weigh in on the hiring.