Evanston council debates scope and format of draft four-year goals; staff to return with "SMART" revisions

City staff presented an initial draft of four-year council goals and solicited feedback from the newly seated council. Clark Manoza (staff) said the document before the council was an initial draft intended to prompt council direction.

Council members suggested several substantive revisions. Council member Eyles asked staff to add a specific bullet addressing services for people who are currently unhoused. Council member Davis asked for the budget section to separate discretionary from nondiscretionary spending and for every council item with a cost to show a budget source. Council member Rogers and others urged converting broad items into SMART goals (specific, measurable, achievable, relevant and time-bound) to prioritize and shorten the list. Council member Kelly asked how the draft would be finalized; staff said they would revise the draft to be more succinct, "smartify" goals and return with a work plan within 30 days for implementation steps.

On specific goal items discussed, staff and council referenced continuing implementation of priority-based budgeting trials, retention of the city's ISO Class 1 rating for the fire department, and a proposal for a health hub to serve low- and no-income residents. Council member Davis questioned the need for a city-run health hub in light of existing hospitals and suggested collaborating with local hospitals; Ike Ogbo, the director for the Health and Human Services Department, said the hub's purpose would be to provide an access point for low- or no-income individuals and would be supported by grants rather than the city's general fund.

Council members agreed to give written feedback on the draft after staff circulates a revised version; staff will then prepare a work plan for implementing agreed goals.