Utilities Director Brian Frandle named interim city manager in North St. Paul

The North St. Paul City Council has appointed Brian Frandle as interim city manager after accepting the resignation of City Manager Scott Duddeck on Tuesday.

Frandle, who has been serving as the city's electric utilities director, "will work with staff and the City Council to ensure the seamless delivery of city services to its residents," according to a statement from city officials.

Duddeck resigned just days after Council Member Scott Thorsen called for an outside investigation into city finances following Duddeck's admission that the city was billed $2,400 for his family's personal expenses.

The city's annual audit also pointed to more red flags, Thorsen said, including nearly 200 missing credit card receipts — most of them Duddeck's.

Duddeck said last week that two contractors had erroneously billed the city for paint, supplies and a portable toilet for his sister-in-law's home renovation.

He added that he had since paid for the services.

According to the statement from the city, officials are reviewing the recent audit and looking at improving on the "shortcomings" identified in it.

"We're confident we can work through these issues and address any policy concerns to prevent these issues in the future," said Mayor Terry Furlong in a written statement.

Shannon Prather