I would suck it up and start fielding and interviewing for a new quality PM who will do their job, do it well, and than you can focus on being the investor not PM's assistant.  

Happy to network and assist .

You could argue that a lot of hesitance hinges on how agents want to be perceived, but if an agent is perceived poorly, it reflects on all offers sent from them to any agent about any property after a while and can have a hand in dragging the ship down if they don't manage it.

As yet another alternative, I thought that maybe I just pay for all the utilities and rent both places out with premium rents that reflect the benefit of utilities included. 

Not only that, but you will be making new relationships that may be able to assist in future ventures)

Thank You for your anticipated assistance,Orlando

We have a large footprint in SD and would love to assist you in any way we can. 

I've applied for Leasing Consultant positions and Assistant Property Management positions but nothing has come through.

I am just starting on this RE investment path and I was hoping the rehab experts can assist.

I appreciate you offer of assistance.