DECATUR - As former City Manager Steve Garman prepares for a new job in Alabama, the search for his replacement came a step closer to its conclusion Thursday after an all-day meeting to narrow the field of candidates.

Mayor Michael Carrigan said the city council met in closed sessions starting early Thursday morning to discuss the position.

Carrigan said the session was largely spent interviewing six candidates for the position, wrapping up in late afternoon.

"We had a productive day, meeting with several well-qualified candidates, and we reduced the field to finalists," Carrigan said. "The process is moving forward."

Carrigan said two finalists have been chosen from the six candidates, but could not offer a time frame on when the final selection would be made.

"We're working with our consultant to make the selection," Carrigan said. "That's about all I can say right now."

Garman confirmed Thursday that he will accept a position as city administrator in Gulf Shores, Ala.

Garman stepped down as city manager in May, leaving John A. Smith to cover as interim city manager. The position is the chief executive office for the city, overseeing more than 500 employees and an annual budget of more than $100 million.

Garman described Gulf Shores as a tourist destination with a high volume of visitors during the summer months and many people who own second homes in the area to escape colder climates back home during the winter.

"It's a very challenging and interesting city," Garman said. "There's a terribly diverse ecology there."

Gulf Shores city staff could not immediately be reached for comment.

Garman said the move will be made easier by the fact that he and his wife have family living in the nearby Pensacola, Fla., area.

"We know the area very well," Garman said. "We lived in Pensacola for over 20 years, so we know that part of the coast very well."

Garman said he will miss Decatur.

"We've had a lot of good friends and wonderful times here, and I really enjoyed my job," Garman said. "I think there's a very good future for Decatur, and I feel good about the community."

Councilman Dan Caulkins said he wishes Garman luck in his new community.

"He's found a community he fits in and that's good, and I wish him all the best," Caulkins said.

Carrigan also wished Garman well in his future endeavors.

"We miss him already," Carrigan said. "You can print that."

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