Wichita, Kansas, November 26, 2025
The Wichita City Council has appointed Dennis Marstall as the new city manager, succeeding Robert Layton following a 5-2 vote. The selection process began earlier this year, attracting 89 applicants and leading to a final vote expected on December 2. Marstall brings extensive experience in city management, previously serving as assistant city manager in Manhattan, Kansas, and as county administrator in South Carolina.
Wichita City Council Appoints Dennis Marstall as New City Manager
Wichita, Kansas – In a decisive 5-2 vote, the Wichita City Council has chosen Dennis Marstall to succeed Robert Layton as the city’s new city manager. This decision follows a comprehensive search process initiated earlier this year after Layton announced his retirement at the end of 2025.
Background of Dennis Marstall
Marstall currently serves as the county administrator for Lancaster County, South Carolina, a position he has held since 2021. Raised in Manhattan, Kansas, he previously held the role of assistant city manager in Manhattan. Marstall also served as the vice president of community investment and impact for United Way of Central Carolinas. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Kansas State University and a Master of Public Administration from the University of Louisville.
City Manager Selection Process
The search for a new city manager began in April 2025, following Robert Layton’s announcement of his retirement. The city council engaged CPS HR Consulting to lead the search, which attracted 89 applicants. A selection committee narrowed the field to three finalists: Marstall, Mark Freitag, and Wichita’s assistant city manager Donte Martin. Martin withdrew his candidacy in November 2025. The council conducted interviews and public forums with the finalists before making their selection.
Council’s Decision and Next Steps
During the council meeting, members Brandon Johnson and Mike Hoheisel voted against entering into contract negotiations with Marstall. Johnson expressed concerns about the hiring process, suggesting potential undue influence by elected officials and differences in candidate evaluations. Despite these reservations, the majority of the council voted to proceed with negotiations. If an agreement is reached, a final vote to confirm Marstall’s appointment is anticipated at the council meeting on December 2, 2025.
Implications for Wichita
The appointment of a new city manager is a significant event for Wichita, as the city manager plays a crucial role in overseeing daily operations and implementing the council’s policies. Marstall’s background in both city and county management positions him to lead Wichita through its upcoming challenges and opportunities. The council’s decision marks a new chapter in the city’s leadership, aiming to build upon the foundation laid by retiring city manager Robert Layton, who has served Wichita for nearly 17 years.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who is Dennis Marstall?
Dennis Marstall is the current county administrator for Lancaster County, South Carolina, and has previously served as assistant city manager in Manhattan, Kansas. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Kansas State University and a Master of Public Administration from the University of Louisville.
What is the city manager’s role in Wichita?
The city manager is responsible for overseeing the daily operations of Wichita, implementing the city council’s policies, and managing the city’s workforce of over 3,000 employees.
What were the council members’ votes on Marstall’s appointment?
In the council meeting, members Brandon Johnson and Mike Hoheisel voted against entering into contract negotiations with Marstall, while the remaining council members voted in favor.
When is the final vote to confirm Marstall’s appointment?
The final vote to confirm Dennis Marstall’s appointment as city manager is anticipated at the Wichita City Council meeting on December 2, 2025.
Who is Robert Layton?
Robert Layton is the current city manager of Wichita, Kansas, who has announced his retirement at the end of 2025 after nearly 17 years in the position.
Key Features of the City Manager Selection Process
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Initiation of Search | April 2025, following Robert Layton’s retirement announcement. |
| Consulting Firm Engaged | CPS HR Consulting led the search process. |
| Number of Applicants | 89 applications received for the city manager position. |
| Finalists | Dennis Marstall, Mark Freitag, and Donte Martin (who withdrew his candidacy). |
| Council’s Decision | 5-2 vote to enter into contract negotiations with Dennis Marstall. |
| Final Confirmation Vote | Anticipated at the council meeting on December 2, 2025. |
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