Public Works director proposes staffing changes, procurement updates and seeks $168,000 for Safe Routes to School work

Public Works Director Chris Berry presented several operational items to the City Council on Nov. 24, including proposed organizational changes, procurement threshold updates, a funding request for the Safe Routes to School (SRTS) project and a draft tree ordinance needed to maintain compliance with tree grants.

Berry said the proposals include moving a fleet staff member to a Facilities Manager role, adding a heavy equipment mechanic and creating a lead-man position in the Street Division. He emphasized these as internal organizational adjustments presented for council consideration; no personnel actions were taken at the meeting.

On procurement, Berry told the council that current dollar limits have lost nearly 30 percent of buying power because of inflation and recommended updating thresholds to speed routine purchases while preserving competitive bidding and council approval for major items.

Berry said the SRTS project needs an additional $168,000, which could come from the NHRST increase, noting the work will include curb and gutter improvements. That request was presented as discussion-only; council did not authorize the funds at this meeting.

Berry also said the city must adopt a tree ordinance to remain in compliance with tree grant requirements. Council indicated approval of the ordinance’s general form and asked that the ordinance be returned for a formal vote.

Next steps: Staff will return the draft tree ordinance for formal consideration and provide budget or funding details if council moves to allocate money for the SRTS project.