Humans are different from other animals in our ability to exercise foresight, so we need to make decisions today based on what we can foresee coming. Unfortunately, there is so much conflicting data and opinions that is makes it easy for everyone to disagree and do nothing.
Learned about the kitchen composting project from Westmount, Quebec. 4700 residential units are now participating. So far it is a costly program and they are having problems with squirrels and contamination.
Human Resources for Small Cities panel recommends cities conduct an FLSA audit. Helps to prevent law suits, prepare for contract negotiations and learn if employees are working out of class.
The attributes of a High Performing City Council includes:
- Willingness to address different issues
- Ability to address different issues
- Quality of partnership with staff
It is important to orient new Councilmembers, to hold a goal setting retreat and to let the City Council manage itself.
More tomorrow from the ICMA Conference in Montreal. Bonsoir!
1 comment:
I find it encouraging when program managers are willing to talk about what *doesn't* work, as in the Westmount composting project. Too often corporate culture (which IMHO includes government culture) discourages people from talking about failures, as though one will be tarnished by them. But they're instructive!
Randomly,
--Tom
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