City Council Minutes 1991 06 04 - Laserfiche WebLink

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,I.:' and losing control over their city. Elected officials are generally perceived as more responsive to the needs and complaints of the citizens. No. 2. A well received, capable, and popular City Clerk elected by the people can be a real asset in promoting the goodwill of the city. This is especially true where the clerk is actively involved with the public in the performance of his/her duties. Same can be said for an appointed clerk. No. 3. An elected City Clerk possesses a greater degree of independence than an ap- pointed City Clerk. Generally an appointed clerk serves at the pleasure of the Council or is appointed for a term of years and is removable for cause, whereas the elected City Clerk can only be removed by recall. There- fore the elected clerk may be better able to run the office and perform the clerk's duties apart from the conflicts and disagreements and infighting of a city council and be more objective in evaluating the issues confront- ing the clerk's office. No. 4. Just as appointing a clerk could possibly broaden the pool of potential ap- pointees, having to campaign may discourage someone who is genuinely interested in serv- ing city government in a role which is more than just an employee of the city. Arguments for an appointive City Clerk posi- tion. No. 1. the position is primarily administrative, not a policy making position, involving keeping and maintaining of City records, conducting elections, handling some licensing matters, etc. You can require skills and experience, however, you cannot ensure whether candidates for election have these skills and these are very important to the City. No.2. Less "politics" in office: greater professionalism. No. 3. Interest more candidates without cost or effort of campaign. No. 4. Standardization and continuity in office may be increased. (No four year terms) . 6