POCATELLO — After a six-month search that included an extensive interview process of 25 qualified applicants, Pocatello has hired Rich Morgan as its new chief financial officer.

The Pocatello City Council unanimously approved Morgan as the new CFO during a Thursday meeting at City Hall. Morgan will officially assume his duties Monday.

The hiring came with some controversy due to its end-of-year timing and a potential conflict of interest concerning Morgan’s wife, who works in an official capacity with Deaton & Co., the city’s accounting firm.

Pocatello Human Resources Director Heather Buchanan fielded questions from council members Corey Mangum, Hayden Paulsen and Dakota Bates concerning the potential conflict of interest and the internal auditing procedure to ensure proper legal precedence.

“I think it’s important that when things are controversial, we explain as city leaders why we’re making the decisions that we are,” Bates said. “I think we as a community have gotten into being a bit of a mayor-centered culture. We have to recognize that this is an appointed position. The CFO works for all of the city, not just the mayor. He reports to all of us.”

Despite the contentious nature of the hiring, Bates and other council members said they had heard only positive things about Morgan, with Bates in particular mentioning Morgan’s praise from Chubbuck Mayor-elect Rodney Burch.

Morgan has a master’s degree in business from Idaho State University. He began his career in the Bannock County Auditor’s Office, later became a certified public accountant and joined the Idaho State Tax Commission. Morgan later worked for American Microsystems Inc. while he served on the Chubbuck City Council. By 2008, he served as the city of Chubbuck’s clerk and CFO.

Council members Dakota Bates, Rick Cheatum and Linda Leeuwrik and Mayor Brian Blad expressed their appreciation to Pocatello budget manager Chantelle Macy, city controller Bonny Schroeder and the city’s financial department for what they’ve accomplished over the last six months without a CFO.

Morgan will oversee the city’s financial operations, including budget development, financial planning, reporting, treasury functions and long-term fiscal strategy.

“I am excited and honored to step into this role and serve our community during this important transition,” Morgan said. “My focus will be strengthening the city’s financial foundation, supporting the dedicated staff in the finance department and ensuring that our work reflects transparency, accountability and service to residents. I look forward to working closely with Mayor-elect Dahlquist, the council and the entire Pocatello team as we move the city forward together.”