*This story has been changed from the original.*

The Renton Technical College Board of Trustees asked interim president Steve Hanson if he was interested in taking the job permanently.

“I think this is a great place, and I think it would be a great place to serve as the president long term,” said the 61-year-old Hanson, who was surprised by the inquiry.

At the time of his hiring the board made it clear to Hanson he wouldn’t be eligible to apply for the permanent position, but after two months he’s grown a favorable reputation on campus.

Hanson hasn’t been offered the job yet. The board plans to hold forums Dec. 1 and 3 so the community can interview Hanson and give input.

“The board has been criticized of rushing into things, but we’re not doing that this time,” said board chair Ronnie Behnke. “The board will be there listening and taking note of everything.”

It plans to make its decision Dec. 15 after a special meeting.

The conversation about considering Hanson began during a meeting to select a search firm.

“Somebody made the comment that they had heard that Steve Hanson may be interested in staying on as permanent president,” Behnke said.

During the regular Nov. 10 board meeting, the trustees went into executive session to privately ask Hanson if he was interested.

“Then they reconvened and talked about the process,” Hanson said.

If the board decides not to select Steve, they’ll make an offer to one of the search firms they interviewed early November.

Though the board could save thousands in firm fees if they choose Hanson, it’s not a motivating factor, Behnke said.

“He’s doing a phenomenal job and he’s really well liked,” Behnke said. “He’s out on the campus on a regular basis talking to students, talking to faculty. He’s been a very visual part of the campus community.”

The board is seeking a replacement for Don Bressler, who they fired this summer for unspecified reasons.

Hanson would bring 36 years of experience to the college. He worked at various colleges in the Pacific Northwest, and retired in 2007 from Spokane Community College as the president.

The forums will be held at Renton Technical College, 3000 N.E. Fourth St., Renton, in the Technology Resource Center, Blencoe Auditorium. The schedule of the forums is as follows:

• Tuesday, Dec. 1: 1-2 p.m. students; 2:15-3:15 p.m. faculty; 3:30-4:30 p.m. classified staff, and 4:45-6 p.m., community.

• Thursday, Dec. 3: 9-10 a.m. classified staff; 10:15-11:15 a.m. exempt staff; 1:30-2:30 p.m. instruction group, and 4:45-6 p.m. labor/advisory councils.