Crystal River picks public works director as new city manager

City officials stayed in-house in choosing Dave Burnell as their new city manager.

Burnell has been Crystal River's public works director for 3 1/2 years. The City Council voted unanimously this week to allow retiring City Manage Andy Houston to begin contract talks with Burnell.

Houston, who turns 63 in July, announced his retirement March 31 after eight years in the position. His last day is July 18.

Mayor Jim Farley told the Citrus County Chronicle that Burnell understands what the city council wants to accomplish, since he has been Houston's understudy for the last 3 1/2 years, and he has strong management skills.