Minutes 2011 0129 - Laserfiche WebLink

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MINUTES Page 4 City of San Leandro City Council Special Meeting — January 29, 2011 night that had an item with large public participation so as to be respectful of their time. It was also suggested that both Council and staff give each other a "heads up" on issues. It was agreed that staff would develop some suggested processes and bring it back to the Council to review. The discussion continued regarding how best to address Council requests of staff (e.g. directed to Department Heads or the City Manager). The current practice generally has a Councilmember contact the City Manager, who will then direct it to a Department Head. Staff clarified that responding to the Council is a priority. There was discussion on the timing of the agenda packets and allowing for enough time to contact staff with questions. Further discussion ensued on when to respond to the full Council vs. an individual member, responding to residents, and the time constraints on staff if the request is more than a short answer. It was determined that staff would develop some guidelines for Council to consider so as to make it more clear as to whom to contact. City Attomey Williams made note of the Brown Act requirements and limitations. The Council agreed that it is very important to provide consistent information to the community. • Review Council Goals for 2010 -11 and Revise, if Needed, for 2011 -12 Deputy City Manager Diaz presented the current 2010 -11 goals and requested any changes for the next fiscal year. Discussion ensued about some additional areas that could be included and discussed in the future, including communication, public engagement, quality of life and economic development. The goals were slightly modified and will be included in the budget document. It was also suggested that at the mid -year retreat, the Council take time to update the Vision Statement and values listed. • Closing Comments The Councilmembers agreed that communication and confidentiality are very important; they stated that some processes can be improved, and that protocol is very important as well. They were excited about the executive team working on strategic initiatives. There was some discussion that the retreat had too many agenda items and they would have wanted more time; they agreed to have another retreat later this year. Overall, they agreed that they are looking forward to the upcoming year. 3. PUBLIC COMMENTS Public Comments may be limited to 3 minutes per speaker, subject to adjustment by the Mayor. The public is invited to make any comments related to Agenda items, or other items of public interest, at this time. Dave Johnson, Chamber of Commerce, addressed the City Council about the city manager /council form of government; the role of the Chamber with economic development; and suggested hosting a meeting for the public on budget development.