Milton-Freewater appoints interim manager, pursues Irrigon administrator

By Dan Thesman on Wednesday, July 29th, 2026 in Columbia Basin News More Top Stories

MILTON-FREEWATER — Following the sudden withdrawal of a top candidate for city manager, the Milton-Freewater City Council has appointed an interim leader and voted to approach a regional city official to fill the vacancy.

Mayor Mike Odman confirmed to Elkhorn Media Group that council members voted during a special meeting Monday to extend an offer to Aaron Palmquist, currently the city manager of Irrigon. If Palmquist declines, the city plans to shift its search strategy to internal recruitment.

To ensure continuous municipal operations, the Milton-Freewater City Council appointed city recorder Leanne Steadman as interim city manager for six months or until a permanent replacement is hired.

The leadership shakeup comes after top applicant Nicole Schneider withdrew late last week after receiving an offer for the post.

In addition to addressing the city’s top executive role, the council approved a job profile to begin recruitment for a public works supervisor, which Odman said should go live soon.

File photo of Milton-Freewater City Hall