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WALNUT CREEK — An opening for a new city manager has attracted 67 applicants from across the country. 

The list of applicants includes public administrators hoping to get a promotion as well as experienced city managers, said Bob Murray of Roseville-based Bob Murray & Associates, the firm hired to help in the process. 

Some applicants have established statewide and nationwide reputations but might find Walnut Creek attractive because of the city’s quality of life, Murray said. 

“It’s a great city (and) has an excellent reputation as a very progressive, well-managed organization,” he said. 

The position has also proven to be very stable. Current City Manager Don Blubaugh will retire in June after 14 years on the job. There have been only five city managers since 1956. 

The deadline to apply passed Thursday. The council probably will interview candidates in April, after Murray narrows the applicant pool down to around 15 candidates.