HomeMy WebLinkAbout01-19-2022_Open Session_General Comment_Armstead, Dolores_Staffing Assistance for Council Members_links sanitizedFrom:Dolores Armstead
To:Public Comments
Subject:Help for councilThank you
Date:Wednesday, January 19, 2022 8:55:33 AM
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Good evening Mayor and council
I am AGAIN advocating for staffing assistance for our council members.
Most people don’t realize that with the city having a population of
more than 222000 each ward is responsible for more than 30,000
residents. They are responsible for answering calls, addressing issues,
writing policy, attending community events – all with no assistance.
And several councilmembers actually have jobs/businesses to attend
to. If lucky they may have a volunteer. We ask a lot of our
councilmembers. Considering the population, they are doing a hell of a
job. We can all be served better if each councilmember had a
dedicated staff person for their ward. Volunteers are nice, but a paid
staff is more dependable.
**********
On page 14 of the quarterly report, the city is investing in new software
for budget reporting that is supposed to result in transparency. If
history is a reflection, transparency will not happen. A case in point, I
have asked the city for information since January 2021. Received
nothing, not even an excuse. Even council members cannot receive
information from city staff. Is there a rule or regulation that staff
should provide council, commissions and public information in a timely
manner, ie within 30 days. I am still waiting.
Dolores Armstead
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