Council adds assistant city manager to code and appoints Bruce Kartchner amid public objections

The Bluffdale City Council adopted a text amendment Sept. 11 creating an appointed assistant city manager position in city code and later approved a resolution appointing Bruce (transcript spelling varies) to that role.

Staff said the position already appeared on an organizational chart approved earlier and that the action would not change the budgeted number of positions or the current salary structure. City Manager explained the title change reflects duties the administrative services director has been fulfilling and that the assistant city manager post would be appointed by the mayor with council consent.

Public commenters and multiple councilmembers questioned whether the city needed an additional high-level position now, citing recent budget pressure. Public speaker Connie Robbins said the city is "far too small" for an assistant city manager and raised concerns about the named candidate's prior employment record. Another public commenter, Terri Summers, urged caution given recent budget issues.

Council discussion focused on whether the change was a title alignment versus adding headcount or cost; staff repeatedly said no new funds or positions were added by the move. The ordinance (2024-21) passed on a roll-call vote; a subsequent resolution to appoint Bruce to the assistant city manager role also passed after motion and roll-call, although at least one councilmember voted against the appointment.

Councilmembers said they retain control over whether the position is filled or left vacant in future budget cycles.