§ 2-141. Reorganization of departmental duties.

(a)

Findings.

(1)

The city is called upon to perform a multitude of functions.

(2)

The organizational structures appropriate to the most efficient and effective delivery of services can quickly change depending upon forces and pressures outside the complete control of the city.

(3)

From time to time the council has established new departments to meet important needs of the time.

(4)

For the city manager to possess the necessary discretion to organize city government to best meet the current needs of the city's residents, the ability to shift certain responsibilities between departments from time to time, either on a temporary or permanent basis, is necessary.

(5)

When established by ordinance, the functions of departments are intended to constitute the initial assignment of duties, but are not intended to preclude later transfer of duties.

(b)

Purpose. The purpose of this section is to permit the city manager to modify the assignment of duties among departments, except when the city charter mandates a specific responsibility be held by a certain department, or its successor.

(c)

Authority of the city manager.

(1)

Transfer of duties. The city manager is authorized to transfer duties or activities among departments within his management control, subject to the limitations below.

(2)

Purpose of transfers. Such transfers may be made when the city manager finds reassignment of duties or activities should improve the efficiency or effectiveness of the service or activity.

(3)

Limitation—Express prohibition. Establishment of duties for specific departments by the council shall not preclude reassignment by the city manager unless those duties or activities are assigned to the human relations department by ordinance, resolution or contract, or expressly prohibited in the ordinance mandating an activity be performed by a specific department.

(4)

Limitation—City Charter. The city manager may not transfer the duties and activities of departments made by the people through the city charter.

(d)

Council notification. Before effecting a transfer of duties and activities of departments, the city manager will inform the city council by reporting to a standing committee of the council designated by the mayor for that purpose.

(Ord. No. 040315, § 1, 4-8-04; Ord. No. 100222, § 1, 3-11-10)