By NICOLE CARTRETTE
Staff Writer

While the search remains confidential, Columbus Regional Healthcare CEO Bill Clark isn’t hiding the fact that he may be interested in the county manager position.

The Columbus County manager search has yielded more than 19 applicants but a few of those have removed their names from consideration prior to or after their interviews and in recent weeks fewer applications have been filed and no candidates interviewed.

Clark was contacted last week amidst rumors he might consider applying for the position.

Several people in the community had asked him to consider applying for the position with the county, Clark said, admitting that he had done just that.

“I’ve been in Columbus County for 16 years now. This is my home and I love it,” Clark explained. “That’s just one reason.”

He seemed to be optimistic about the opportunity.

“Every situation has its challenges,” he explained. “I just want to look at all my options.

“I probably have lots of options,” he explained.

The hospital board recently voted not to renew a contract with Quorum, the company that employs Clark.

Clark did not speak to his status with Quorum or other job opportunities he may be pursuing.