Reprint from the Progress Times - June 8, 2007
©Progress Times 2007 - All Rights Reserved

Arcaute Begins Work As Alton Interim City Manager

New Alton Interim City Manager George Arcaute presided over his first regular city meeting Tuesday, June 5. Although, this was his first with the City of Alton, Arcaute is quite familiar with his duties as he says he is looking forward to helping out during his six month interim term.

"I really want to develop some focus or vision," said Arcaute. When you have limited resources, developing focus becomes critical. You can't afford to be wasting resources. Having that experience, I think I can help the commission formulate a vision which will help the City of Alton."

Arcaute's experience is without question. A native of San Juan, Arcaute worked with the city for 30 years, starting as a radio dispatcher for the police department and working his way up to police chief. Soon after, he was made city manager and served in that capacity for over 12 years.

Arcaute says the timing of his move has been almost perfect.

"A few months ago I announced to the commission my intention to resign. I thought it was time to look for another place to park myself," said Arcaute. "My initial intention was to take some time off but I got wind of this opportunity and I thought this was a place I could offer something. I see the possibility of getting back to my public service roots here."

Arcaute said public service is something he prides himself on and hopes to foster in Alton.

"I think that with politics and politicians, every day is a day to prove that the work is important and that you care about the work and you aren't just in it for yourself. Every project, you get to manifest that," said Arcaute. "This service is all about credibility. We aren't going to be able to do anything without credibility with our citizens. There are always going to be differences, but through those differences, you can find some common ground. Part of my job here will be to let the politics stay above me and not let it filter down into the labor force. That's really the crux of it."

As for his future plans, Arcaute hopes to focus on retaining positions within the city's police department, and he believes his experience in law enforcement will be a great asset.

"The most critical thing is retaining experience," said Arcaute. "It takes time to break in a new officer. The training period and the certification requirements in that field make retention that much more critical. I think it’s about proving to them that the city administration is making them a priority."

Arcaute, who will receive a salary of $75,000 per year, replaced Finance Director Steve Pena, who was appointed interim city manager after the resignation of Hilario Rincones.