Thoughts from the Interim City Manager – There is an effective system in place to handle the issues raised by our residents. City staff keep systems functioning to provide services to our residents and visitors. Inherent in providing those services, issues often arise that need to be addressed. When issues occur, it is most efficient for customers to contact City staff about that issue. If the issue cannot be resolved at that level, then the City Manager can weigh in to possibly find a resolution. If the issue cannot be resolved by the City Manager, then at that time, the Commission should consider the issue.
Having said that, the regular business meeting of the City Commission is not the most efficient place to resolve immediate and concerning issues.
Let’s try something new. When the Commission is approached by citizens, the Commissioner should ask the following questions before encouraging participation in the public comment:
Have you contacted Staff about this issue? Have you discussed this issue with the City Manager?