Port Orchard staff pilot new vision, mission and values to guide city operations

The council received a staff presentation on a draft citywide vision, mission and values statement developed through facilitated sessions with frontline staff, mid‑level managers and directors.

Consultant Tim Sloan, who facilitated the process, said the work was built from the ground up using staff survey input and focused on producing 'lived values' that clarify how decisions are made and how employees engage with one another and with the public. Sloan recited the draft vision ('realizing our community potential'), mission and three core values: service, engagement and integrity.

Council members asked how the statements will be operationalized and how the city will balance internal culture change with messaging to residents who resist growth. Sloan and staff said the next steps include producing a 'rude FAQ' or guidance so employees can respond consistently when residents ask about growth and revitalization, and integrating values into training and performance reviews.

The council expressed overall support for the exercise and asked staff to return with implementation ideas and training options in the new year.