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Resident raises concern about apparent confidential 'city manager' recruitment; council orders fact-finding
Summary
A resident told the council a recruitment firm named Lean Solutions Group contacted a sitting city manager about a confidential search for Claremont's city manager; council directed staff and the city attorney to investigate procurement records and whether the city's name was used without authorization.
During the meeting's public-comment period, Paula Hoisington reported receiving information that a firm calling itself Lean Solutions Group had approached a current city manager with a confidential solicitation about a Claremont city-manager search.
"This came from a legitimate firm called Lean Solutions Group, who said they were acting in a confidential manner on behalf of the city," Hoisington said, asking the council to investigate whether the firm had authority to represent the city or whether someone was using the city's name without authorization.
Council members and staff discussed next steps. Council directed the acting city manager, procurement and the city attorney to check procurement records, verify any payments, and contact the named firm to determine the basis for any claimed authority. Acting City Manager said he and procurement had no prior knowledge of such a search; the city attorney said staff would "fact find" as quickly as possible.
Council members said investigation should determine if an unauthorized party was using the city's name, and whether any payment or contract existed that would indicate official authorization. The council did not take formal disciplinary action; instead it asked staff to report back with findings.
The council emphasized transparency and that any legitimate recruitment by the city for an executive position would require council awareness and procurement processes.
