TOPEKA, Kan. (From Release/WIBW) -- Topeka City Manager Jim Colson on Tuesday took his first step in making changes in the City of Topeka’s Planning Department by removing its director, David Thurbon.

Colson said his objective is to create an organizational structure that ensures the highest level of service deliverable to the citizens of Topeka; one that is highly efficient and service oriented.

“I appreciate David’s 10 years of service but believe it is in the City’s best interest to proceed in a different direction,” Colson said. “We wish him the best.”

Thurbon had worked as planning director since July 2002.

Colson named Bill Fiander, Deputy Director, as interim director. Fiander has been with the city since 1997. A search is planned to recruit the next planning department director.