Phyllis Kimber-Wilcox
On June 30, 2023 the mayor and city council of San Bernardino held a workshop to discuss city wide policies.
“Most of our regular City Council meetings involve conducting the day-to-day business of the City,” said interim City Manager Charles McNeely. “This workshop is an opportunity for the Mayor and Council to take a deep dive into critical city issues in close partnership with city staff, and to provide strategic direction, set policy, and take action.”
Among the items that were discussed were the city’s staffing plan. The city’s staffing levels remain lower than they were prior to its bankruptcy in 2012.
“Over the past several months, we have been looking at our operational structure and staffing levels, and how they can be improved to serve our residents,” added McNeely. The proposal lays out a fiscally responsible road map for San Bernardino to strategically hire in conjunction with new initiatives and community needs.”
Many quality of life issues were discussed during the session including a recommendation by staff that the city council approve an interim shelter while the city’s permanent shelter is being developed. Other items included providing after hours security for city parks, establishing a park ranger and expanding encampment and city clean ups.
According to a press release issued by the city council, “Economic development items to be considered include launching a revitalization effort for downtown San Bernardino, conducting an engineering and space study for the rehabilitation of city hall, and partnering with Cal State San Bernardino’s Inland Empire Center for Entrepreneurship to establish a center in Downtown San Bernardino.”
The workshop was held in the Multipurpose Conference Room on the 2nd floor at 201 North E. Street and “was expected to last all day.”