In a recent City Council work session held on March 30, 2025, the Keizer City Council engaged in significant discussions regarding the management of city staff and the process for appointing members to various city committees and commissions. The meeting highlighted the need for clarity in council operations and the importance of collaborative decision-making.

One of the primary topics of discussion was the protocol for individual council members requesting information from city staff. Council members expressed concerns about the potential strain on staff resources when individual requests exceed two hours of work. The consensus was that requests requiring more extensive staff time should be directed through the city manager to ensure efficient workflow management. This approach aims to prevent individual council members from overburdening staff with extensive research tasks, thereby allowing the city manager to maintain control over staff assignments.

Additionally, the council reviewed proposed changes to the process of appointing members to city committees. Traditionally, the mayor held the authority to make these appointments, but a new proposal suggests transferring this power to the entire council, allowing for a more democratic and transparent selection process. This shift aims to foster collaboration among council members and ensure that all voices are heard in the decision-making process. The council discussed the implications of this change, emphasizing the importance of collective input in committee assignments.

The meeting also addressed the timing of committee reviews, with some council members advocating for annual evaluations rather than biennial ones. This change would allow the council to assess the relevance and effectiveness of committees more frequently, ensuring that they align with the city’s current needs and priorities.

In conclusion, the discussions during the work session underscored the council's commitment to improving operational efficiency and fostering a collaborative environment. As the council moves forward with these proposed changes, the focus will remain on enhancing communication and ensuring that all members are actively involved in the governance process. The next steps will involve refining the proposed appointment process and establishing clearer guidelines for staff interactions, which will be crucial for the council's effectiveness in serving the Keizer community.