City Manager

GENERAL FUNCTIONS

The City Manager reports to and works very closely with the City Council, and is responsible for the effective and efficient administration of all city services through the supervision of department heads and administrative staff. Performs duties under the directives of City laws and ordinances within policy guidelines from the City Council. The City Manager assists the City Council by providing prompt and accurate information on policy and legislative decisions, and presents an annual report of work completed during the year. The City Manager devotes their time to the discharge of official duties, attends all meetings of the Council unless excused by the Mayor or Council, and keeps the Council advised at all times of the affairs and needs of the City. Maintains contact with the citizens of Homer to determine problems and provide information as requested. Administers the City of Homer Personnel Regulations as adopted by the City Council.

JOB FUNCTIONS/MAJOR ACTIVITIES

1. Hire and, as needed, remove the heads of all departments and employees of the City, exercising supervision and control over them and their work with the aim of maximizing efficiency, and shall have the power to transfer an employee from one department to another.
2. Supervises the enforcement of municipal law and carries out the directives of the City Council. Administers all contracts entered into by the City and see that provisions of all franchises, permits, leases, and privileges granted by the City are observed.
3. Prepares and submits an annual budget and capital improvement program for consideration by the City Council, and executes the budget and capital improvement program as it is adopted.
4. Makes monthly financial reports and other reports on municipal finances and operations as required by City Council.
5. Exercises custody over all real and personal property of the municipality and supervises the operation of all public utilities owned and operated by the City.
6. Act as purchasing agent for all City departments, subject to provisions of the annual budget and the City's procurement policy.
7. Aids the general planning of City Council meetings, content of the agenda and assists the Council in obtaining requested information.
8. Takes part in and may enter into all discussions by the City Council, but shall have no vote.
9. Conduit for Council interactions with City attorney as necessary and provides guidance in legal matters.
10. Coordinates with outside consultants, federal, state and borough personnel and agencies as required.
11. Remains current in regard to federal, state and local laws, regulations and ordinances and pending legislation governing municipal operations.
12. Answer questions and investigates complaints from the public.
13. Performs other duties required by law or by the City Council, and as prescribed by Homer Municipal Code and AS 29.20.500.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

B.A. degree in business or public administration or related field required, relevant Master's degree desired. Minimum of five years of management and supervisory experience required, municipal management experience desired. Knowledge of the needs and special requirements of a coastal community ie; fishing and tourism issues desired. Possess proven leadership ability. Knowledge of the Alaska State Legislative process. Familiarity with Water and Wastewater Utility, Port and Harbor operations, and a combination paid staff/volunteer Fire Department.

Ability to: read, analyze and interpret common scientific and technical journals, financial reports and legal documents; respond to inquiries or complaints from the public, regulatory agencies or members of the business community; write speeches and articles for publication that conform to prescribed style and format; effectively present information to top management personnel, public groups, boards and commissions and the City Council.

DECISION MAKING RESPONSIBILITIES

Frequent exercise of independent judgment and initiative is required. Has overall responsibility for all city-owned property and facilities. Budgetary responsibility for a $22 million operating budget.

SUPERVISORY AUTHORITY

Has direct responsibility (hire, terminate and direct) of the Department Directors and Administrative Staff.

EXTERNAL VISIBILITY/CONTACT

Frequent contact with public in community relations. Requires well developed written and oral communication skills and courtesy in maintaining effective relationships with the public, City Council and other municipal, state, and federal officials.

WORKING CONDITIONS

Office environment. Attendance is required at City Council and other meetings held at night or out of town.