HomeMy WebLinkAbout99-027RESOLUTION NO. 99- d)o~ ~/
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND,
WASHINGTON SETTING FORTH TRANSITION PHILOSOPHIES AND POLICIES TO
FACILITATE A SMOOTH TRANSITION TO EFFECTIVE, LONG TERM COUNCIL /
MANAGER GOVERNMENT
WHEREAS, a change in City government from Mayor / Council to Council / Manager
was mandated by Port Townsend's electorate in November of 1998; and
WHEREAS, the new form of government requires a multitude of major and minor
changes, some of which are statutory while some are discretionary decisions of the City
Council; and
WHEREAS, a major change in form of government and the uncertainty which precedes it
creates opportunity for some confusion and/or rumor in the community; and
WHEREAS, through this Resolution the City Council desires to ensure the stable
continuity of public services through the professional management of City Departments;
and
WHEREAS, the City Council desires to clarify and express certain transition policies in
combination with appropriate statutory requirements which are relevant to said change;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Port
Townsend as follows:
SECTION 1. The City Council is dedicated to bring about a smooth and successful short
term and long term transition to the Council / Manager form of government for the
benefit of the citizens of Port Townsend, the officers and employees of the City and for
potential candidates who may seek a senior management position with the City.
SECTION 2. The City Council declares its intention to carefully observe all statutory
requirements of the new form of government and to seek out recognized "best practices"
which have helped other cities in the State of Washington bring about successful
transitions in similar circumstances. A "best practice" discussion shall be an element of
current and future decisions. The City Council directs the City Manager and/or the City
Attorney to so advise the Council when appropriate matters arise.
SECTION 3. The City Council directs the City Manager to require that City
Departments review and examine operations and/or employment as to whether there are
more effective ways to organize or conduct departmental activities whenever
opportunities such as attrition, etc., may make such examination appropriate.
SECTION 4. If, or when, more efficient or effective procedures or operations are thus
indicated, the City Manager shall develop proposals for review by the City Council
(where appropriate) with financial and operational "cause and effect" issues clearly
identified including long range effect on work programs, levels of service, and/or
projects. It is the City Council's intention to make policy decisions based upon similar
consideration of long range effect on work programs, levels of service and/or projects.
SECTION 5. The City Council desires to improve customer service with emphasis on
timely response, a user friendly atmosphere and a "can do" philosophy as much as
possible within the bounds of the responsibility, integrity and financial capability of the
City.
SECTION 6. The City Council desires to improve both pUblic and internal satisfaction
and recognition of the important service performed by dedicated public servants and shall
encourage the City Manager to establish programs which provide more information,
understanding and recognition among the citizenry as well as raising the level of pride,
morale and job satisfaction for City employees.
SECTION 7. The City Council directs the City Manager to focus the highest attention of
the City to basic services as a first priority upon the City's available resources. This shall
be an important element of current and future decisions.
ADOPTED at the regular meeting of the City Council on the /4
1999, by the following vote:
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
h~'b~h~ L. ~c~l~an, C/ity Attorney
__ day of ~, !
Pam Kolacy, City Clerk d]
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