Moreover,
Watertown managers living outside city:
WATERTOWN. However, New York (WWNY) – According to state law, it’s a problem that people running the city of Watertown don’t live in the city. However, city council members might make a new local law to make it okay.
Watertown City Council members agree that the city manager. Additionally, However, heads of the engineering and public works departments do great work, but those leaders aren’t following a state law – a law requiring them to live in the city where they work. Similarly, One council member thinks the law is outdated.
“I thought it was antiquated. that the state needs to get up to speed with what’s going on, and allow us to take care of the business that we have ourselves, because we have a better understanding of what needs to be done,” said Cliff Olney.
Watertown is looking to reverse course. though, allowing City Manager Eric Wagenaar, City Engineer Tom Compo, and DPW Superintendent Brian MacCue to continue to live outside city limits.
But is it possible?
State Assembly attorney Tyler Carey says that request typically needs state action, something called home rule legislation.
But city attorney Kristen Smith feels the city can pass its own local law. file it with Albany – but there’s nothing that says Albany has to sign off on it.
Some think it’s best keep a good workforce even if you have to change the rules. Others think the people who run the city should live in the city and pay city taxes.
Council members are mulling it over.
“I think I’m probably leaning towards being in favor of it. just because I know what it watertown managers living outside city takes to search for people, and I have a feeling if we tell these people move to the city or else, they’re not going to, they’re gone. The city manager position search could be anywhere from two to three months,” said Lisa Ruggiero, council member.
“They could have a personal interest in the city, which I believe the manager really does. I think he’s doing an excellent job. But if you don’t have financial stake in something that you’re controlling. it kind of limits your liability and may alter your decision-making,” said Ben Shoen, council member.
The public can speak out on this at a public hearing on July 7.
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Watertown managers living outside city
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