HomeMy WebLinkAboutLeague of California Cities - Grass Roots Coordinator PgrmREQUEST:
DATE:
CITY OF PALM DESERT
COMMUNITY SERVICES/ASSISTANT CITY MANAGER
STAFF REPORT
Request for Approval of Payment of $4,000 to the League of California
Cities for the Grass Roots Coordinator Program
May 13, 2004
SUBMITTED BY: Sheila R. Gilligan, Assistant City Manager for Community Services
Recommendation: By Minute Motion, concur with staff and approve payment in the
amount of $4,000 to the League of California Cities.
Background:
The City has evaluated subject program and found the program to be deficient in the
Coachella Valley and especially as it relates to the City of Palm Desert. These concerns
were given to the City Council on August 28, 2003, and action was taken to withdraw the
$4,000 payment to the League for these services.
Subsequent to this action, City Manager Carlos L. Ortega was contacted by Chris
McKenzie, CEO of the League, who advised that non-payment of this amount of money
could cause the suspension of the City's membership in the League. A meeting was
scheduled with Mr. McKenzie in Sacramento; Mr. Ortega was unable to attend and Patricia
Scully and I met in his stead.
Mr. McKenzie has become well-educated in the City's concerns and has confirmed he will
put forth a concerted effort to resolve the issues. However, because of the League's
initiative on self governance, he has asked that we allow him an extension of time to
address the issues. Since the League has provided assistance outside our own division
which has been beneficial and in light of Mr. McKenzie's request, staff is recommending that
the City Council approve this payment with future payments to be contingent upon resolution
by the League after the November election.
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League of California Cities Grass Roots Coordinator Program
May 13, 2004
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Mr. McKenzie agreed that our concerns had merit and will use the constructive criticism to
produce a more proactive program in the future.
Su L- . By:
SHEILA R. GILLIGAN
Assistant City Manager for C'• r unity Services
Approval:
CARLOS L. OR1 / A PAUL GIBSON
City Manager
Finance Director
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