City manager presents draft 2026 strategic priorities; council seeks metrics and public input

City Manager Jurgens presented a draft resolution at the Committee of the Whole outlining proposed strategic priorities for 2026 and interim guidance before the council undertakes a new strategic plan.

Jurgens described the work as a follow-up to a November retreat and said, "when everything is a priority, nothing is a priority," urging the council to focus on a shorter list of priorities and to incorporate measurable indicators and regular reporting. He identified four priority areas: infrastructure (water, sewer, streets and sidewalks), housing (including affordable and senior housing and neighborhood revitalization), public safety (police and fire services) and economic vitality (job growth, business retention and workforce development).

Council members responded with questions and requests for more detail. Member Scott asked what adopting the resolution would mean in practice; Jurgens said adoption would guide staff in referencing council priorities when preparing action items and budget proposals. Member Strazza asked for community data to define "quality of life." Member Kearns and others emphasized the need for clear success indicators, measurable outcomes and opportunities for council members to be involved in developing the implementation details.

Jurgens also addressed other city business during his report, noting drought and urging water conservation, announcing that a bridge shelter had opened and confirming use of emergency shelter nights during extreme cold, and highlighting Route 66 centennial planning and public-works efforts. The council did not vote on the strategic-priorities resolution at this meeting; staff said they will return with a draft resolution for possible formal adoption.