I would like to refer a discussion to the Finance and Economic Resiliency Committee prioritize funding in the FY 2025 budget process for the creation of three Area Managers for the City.

During the 2024 budget discussions, I raised the concept of Area Managers, akin to Assistant City Managers but with a distinct focus on specific geographic areas of the City. Unfortunately, the City Commission did not proceed with the idea at that time. I believe revisiting and implementing this concept in the 2025 budget process would significantly benefit our City's proactive management and responsiveness to community concerns.

The envisioned role of Area Managers would involve assigning each manager to a specific geographic area, allowing them to proactively address matters of concern from the perspective of all departments. Unlike portfolio-based responsibilities of traditional Assistant City Managers, Area Managers would serve as focal points for their designated geographical City districts, collaborating across departments to ensure a comprehensive and unified approach to addressing community needs.

Area Manager positions could be beneficial for several reasons, including improved code compliance, beautification efforts, and addressing other needs unique to each area. By having dedicated Area Managers, we can have a more targeted, effective City management.