Tigard, Oregon is a vibrant and growing city located in Washington County. With a population of over 55,000 residents, it is the 12th largest city in the state. As an expert in local government and politics, I have witnessed firsthand the crucial role that elected officials play in governing and managing a city. In this article, I will delve into the selection process of one of the most important positions in Tigard - the city manager.
The Role of the City Manager
Before we dive into the selection process, it is essential to understand the role of the city manager.The city manager is responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of the city and implementing policies and decisions made by the city council. They act as a liaison between the council and city staff, ensuring that all departments are working together efficiently to serve the needs of the community. The city manager is also responsible for creating and managing the city's budget, hiring and supervising department heads, and providing recommendations to the council on various issues affecting the city. They play a vital role in maintaining the overall well-being and growth of Tigard.
The Selection Process
Unlike other elected officials in Tigard, such as the mayor and city council members who are chosen through a popular vote, the city manager is selected through a different process. The selection process involves a combination of recruitment, interviews, and ultimately, appointment by the city council. The first step in this process is recruitment.The city council will typically hire a professional recruitment firm to assist in finding qualified candidates for the position. This firm will advertise the job opening and reach out to potential candidates who meet the qualifications set by the council. Once the recruitment process is complete, the city council will review the applications and select a group of candidates to interview. These candidates will then go through a series of interviews with the council, where they will be asked about their qualifications, experience, and vision for the city. After the interviews, the council will narrow down the list of candidates to a select few. These candidates will then undergo a thorough background check and reference check to ensure they are suitable for the position.
The council may also conduct site visits to the candidate's current place of employment to get a better understanding of their work style and management skills. Finally, the city council will make their decision and appoint the chosen candidate as the new city manager. This decision is typically made through a majority vote by the council. The newly appointed city manager will then work with the council to negotiate their contract and salary.
The Qualifications
To be considered for the position of city manager in Tigard, there are specific qualifications that candidates must meet. These qualifications are set by the city council and may vary depending on the needs of the city at that time.However, some general qualifications include a bachelor's or master's degree in public administration or a related field, several years of experience in a similar role, and strong leadership and communication skills. The city council may also look for candidates who have experience working in local government and have a good understanding of Tigard's unique needs and challenges. They may also prioritize candidates who have experience working with diverse communities and have a track record of implementing successful policies and initiatives.
The Importance of Transparency
One crucial aspect of the selection process for elected officials in Tigard is transparency. The city council understands that this is an essential decision that will impact the community for years to come. As such, they strive to keep the public informed and involved in the process. The recruitment firm hired by the council will often hold community forums where residents can provide input on the qualities they would like to see in the new city manager.The council may also hold public interviews with the final candidates, allowing residents to ask questions and provide feedback. Transparency is crucial in building trust between the community and their elected officials. By involving the public in the selection process, the council can ensure that the chosen candidate is a good fit for the city and has the support of its residents.
