CALAIS – In a move that surprised no one, the City Council voted Thursday night to terminate the employment of the city manager.

Last year, Nicholas Mull, 50, was hired as city manager, but six months later he suffered a stroke. He has been unable to work since then. Mull was hired Jan. 25, 2001.

At their meeting Thursday night, the councilors entered executive session to discuss a personnel issue. When they emerged a short time later, a motion was made by Councilor Ferguson Calder, seconded by Councilor Joyce Maker, and unanimously approved, to “separate from employment, with regret, the present city manager, Nicholas Mull.”

The councilors did not comment on their action.

Contacted on Friday, Mayor Eric Hinson said he would not comment on the termination.

But for the past few weeks, the councilors have looked for a new manager to replace Mull.

When they advertised for a “possible opening” of the city manager’s job more than a month ago, 14 applications were received. Of those, five people were contacted and two agreed to be interviewed.

During the past 10 days, councilors have interviewed one candidate, and an interview with another prospective candidate is to be held next week.

During the past year, the city’s community development director, Jim Porter, has served as acting city manager.

It has been a busy year for Porter, who not only has undertaken the day-to-day operations of the city, but also has overseen the search for a new water source, the repairs to the Calais Free Library and sidewalk upgrades.