Committee files memo saying council supports City Manager Cheryl Long after annual review

Council member Mark Jeffries presented the annual performance-review memo for City Manager Cheryl Long at the March 9 Budget and Finance Committee meeting, saying the council concluded she remains the right person to lead the city.

Jeffries described a multi-step review process involving the manager’s self-evaluation, stakeholder feedback and several executive sessions. He highlighted actions taken under Long’s leadership: personnel changes after snow-emergency performance issues, steps to stabilize Government Square operations, and fiscal adjustments following the exhaustion of federal ARPA funds.

"Cheryl Long is the right person to lead the city of Cincinnati as city manager," Jeffries said when reading the summary and conclusions. The memo notes the council’s support for the manager and calls for continued emphasis on public safety, economic development and government efficiencies.

Council member Owens praised the review process and urged the council to adopt a more consistent framework and, where appropriate, third-party supports for future reviews. Owens also underscored cultural issues and said the council should back the manager with adequate resources.

The committee filed the memo; Jeffries said an increase in the city manager’s salary was not discussed at the manager’s request.

Next steps: the filed memo will remain part of the public record for the manager’s annual review; council members signaled intent to follow up on budget priorities and support for the manager’s ongoing initiatives.