Item 3.9 Hiring Communications Specialist
Request for
City Council Action
DEPARTMENT INFORMATION
ORIGINATING DEPARTMENT REQUESTOR: MEETING DATE:
Administration Assistant City Administrator/Human Resources Hille May 13, 2024
PRESENTER(s) REVIEWED BY: ITEM #:
Consent City Administrator/Finance Director Flaherty 3.9 – Hiring Approval
STRATEGIC VISION
MEETS: THE CITY OF OTSEGO:
X Is a strong organization that is committed to leading the community through innovative communication.
Has proactively expanded infrastructure to responsibly provide core services.
Is committed to delivery of quality emergency service responsive to community needs and expectations in a
cost-effective manner.
X Is a social community with diverse housing, service options, and employment opportunities.
Is a distinctive, connected community known for its beauty and natural surroundings.
AGENDA ITEM DETAILS
RECOMMENDATION:
City staff recommends the City Council approve the hiring of the Communications Specialist position.
ARE YOU SEEKING APPROVAL OF A CONTRACT? IS A PUBLIC HEARING REQUIRED?
No No
BACKGROUND/JUSTIFICATION:
The 2024 General Fund Budget includes funding for the addition of a part-time Communications Specialist position. The
City Council approved the job description and authorized the recruitment process on January 22, 2024.
This is a new position aimed at improving the City’s communication and public engagement for all departments within
the City. Currently tasks are divided between multiple positions, and this would centralize and streamline the
communication development process. Proactive and effective communication is a City Council and staff goal.
Staff began recruitment in March for the Communications Specialist and received 42 applications in total. After
interviews, staff unanimously recommend Heidi Carey for the position of Communications Specialist. Heidi has
successfully undergone a background check.
SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS ATTACHED:
• None
POSSIBLE MOTION
PLEASE WORD MOTION AS YOU WOULD LIKE IT TO APPEAR IN THE MINUTES:
Motion to approve the hiring of Heidi Carey for the position of Communications Specialist, at Pay Grade 5, Step 4.
BUDGET INFORMATION
FUNDING: BUDGETED:
General Fund – Administration
101-41400-104
Yes