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Council adopts ordinance making department head hires and terminations subject to council approval
Summary
After debate on transparency versus operational flexibility, the Ottumwa City Council adopted Ordinance 3257-2026, returning appointment and termination approval for department heads to council action; vote was 4–1 with Council member Galloway opposed.
The Ottumwa City Council adopted Ordinance 3257-2026 on third reading, amending the city code so that appointment and termination of department heads must be approved by the council.
Administrator Rath summarized that the change would place department head hiring and termination recommendations from the administrator before the council for approval. Supporters said the amendment restores transparency and provides elected officials oversight of department leadership. Council member Hoffman said, "I feel like government is better when it's closest to the people," and described his vote in favor as restoring public accountability.
Opponents warned the requirement could discourage qualified candidates from applying for positions that would require public review and could expose the city to legal challenges if candidates are presented and not approved. One speaker noted existing protections for employees, including the statutory option for a name-clearing hearing.
After discussion, the council voted to adopt the ordinance on third consideration (DuPray yes; Caviness yes; Reed yes; Galloway no; Hoffman yes). The ordinance also restores the city clerk beneath council oversight and requires council approval for department head hiring and termination decisions.
The ordinance takes effect according to the city's standard ordinance timetable unless otherwise provided in the ordinance text.
