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Council appoints labor negotiator for city manager review after public concern about process
Summary
The council unanimously approved item 5.7 to designate a labor negotiator for the city manager’s annual performance evaluation after a public commenter raised concerns about potential conflict of interest if the mayor Pro Tem were appointed; the city attorney described the item as a routine, legally required housekeeping step.
The Rancho Santa Margarita City Council approved item 5.7 to designate a labor negotiator associated with the city manager’s annual performance review after a public commenter asked the council to reconsider the choice and questioned transparency.
A member of the public, Chris McLaughlin, said he was concerned about appointing Mayor Pro Tem Figueroa as the city’s labor negotiator for the manager’s review, arguing it could create a perceived conflict of interest and reduce transparency. McLaughlin suggested selecting an alternative council member to avoid any appearance of collusion.
City Attorney explained the item is an annual, routine housekeeping step required by state law (he read the applicable Government Code provisions into the record). He said the council is required to designate a negotiator in open session prior to the closed session performance evaluation to make the public aware of the authorized negotiator. The closed session itself, including performance evaluation details, will be held later.
After the city attorney’s explanation, council took a motion and second and approved the appointment by unanimous vote.
The council provided no additional public details about the internal closed‑session evaluation, consistent with state personnel law.
