Winston-Salem City Council selects new city manager in close vote

Winston-Salem City Council has selected William Patrick Pate as the next city manager.

On Friday, the city council voted 5-3 in favor of his appointment. Councilmembers Barbara Burke, Annette Scippio and James Taylor opposed the selection.

Burke submitted a motion to appoint Assistant City Manager Patrice Toney. She cited Toney's more than 25 years of experience in the city.

"She is the best candidate, she's the most experienced candidate and she is the most qualified for this job," Burke said.

The motion failed in a 3-5 vote after which Pate was quickly approved.

Pate's selection comes after Lee Garrity's retirement last month. Assistant City Manager Johnnie Taylor has served as interim city manager since Garrity's departure.

According to a news release, Pate currently serves as city manager of Manassas, Virginia. He has previously held positions with the cities of Winston-Salem, High Point and Greensboro.

Pate's appointment is pending a background check and contract negotiations.