Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Personnel Governance topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Santa Fe amends code to remove 60-day deadline for hiring deputy city manager after heated council debate
Summary
The governing body voted to remove a 60-day requirement that a new city manager hire a deputy city manager within 60 days, a change that prompted extended debate over governance, hiring process and administrative authority.
The City of Santa Fe’s governing body voted to amend municipal code to remove a 60-day deadline that required a newly appointed city manager to hire a deputy city manager within 60 days.
The ordinance change was the subject of extended council debate and public comment. City Manager Scott addressed the body during the public hearing and said he regretted not meeting the timeline; he described the discussion as difficult and said he accepts the council’s judgment. Multiple council members said the 60-day limit was arbitrary and could impede a deliberate hiring process. Councilor Romero Worth, Councilor Pilar Faulkner and Councilor Lindell, among others, argued the rule does not serve the city’s interests and that new managers need time to assess organizational needs.
Councilor Lee Garcia said he opposed the change in committee and again opposed it at the main meeting, arguing the historical provision was enacted intentionally and that the council lacked documentation to justify removal. He said the council should not alter rules when processes and procedures had not been followed in a particular case. Councilor Michael Garcia also voted no and later explained his vote by saying it is not appropriate to change laws when relevant procedures were not observed.
Supporters of the change said the 60-day deadline was impractical in practice: hiring senior executives typically requires a search process, candidate vetting and, in some cases, a search firm, which can exceed 60 days. Council members who supported the amendment said it allows a city manager sufficient time to assess needs and hire a candidate that fits the city’s requirements rather than rush a hiring to meet a deadline.
After discussion, the governing body adopted the ordinance to remove the 60-day timeline. The clerk recorded roll-call votes; the motion passed with a majority, and at least two councilors recorded no votes. City Manager Scott said he “accept[s]” the council’s decision and that he will follow the council’s direction.
The ordinance changes only the timeline language; it does not direct a specific hire. Council members said the decision was intended to allow professional hiring practices and avoid arbitrary time pressure on recruitment for senior management roles.
