Do you ever read something and say to yourself, "that is exactly what I was thinking?" Well, that is what happened when I read this morning's
Oshkosh Northwestern editorial.
Even though The Waterfront
resolution had nothing to do with the 100 N. Main
issue, the City Manager should have told the council (and citizens) what he knew at the time of the council meeting. There is no excuse for
not. Period. Especially when, in the past, the council has specifically asked for updates, even if not all of the information is known.
I had a phone conversation with Community Development Director Jackson Kinney yesterday about this very topic. I told him what I've said to others in the community over the past few days, including
The Northwestern. The perception of city staff keeping or delaying information from being given to the council and public unnecessarily damages the credibility (and viability) of unrelated projects. It puts a black eye on city efforts. It also creates an unproductive "side show," which could severely impact progress.
The big question is, "now what?"
I was informed yesterday that Council Member McHugh intends to ask for a closed meeting to discuss the status of the City Manager's contract. He did not attend last night's meeting, so I was unable to confirm this with him.
The council must have some serious conversation. We are responsible for what happens at City Hall. We hire, fire and supervise the City Manager. The buck stops here.
Update: There is a
story on
The Northwestern's website related to the closed meeting scheduled for Tuesday night. I want to clarify my "call for the removal of City Manager Richard Wollangk" as referenced in the article. Do I believe there should be a change, yes, but I respect him and the process too much to simply call for his removal in the media. I am not out there beating my chest and calling for the City Manager to be terminated. Let me explain below.
I believe the process of the council having the conversation about his performance is warranted. I also believe the council must plan for the future if in fact we decide to make a change. It would be irresponsible for us to make decisions now without further discussions and proper planning.
I also want it to be known that, during a conversation with the City Manager in April, I told him that I liked him personally, but felt his leadership style was no longer what the city needed. I also told him that I wanted to see someone with more assertive and visionary leadership. I was honest with him and told him that I felt it was time for a change.
Fast forward to today.
I am unhappy with the City Manager's choice not to share the information about the 100 Block with us prior to Tuesday's meeting. This is not, however, the sole issue for my belief that change is needed.
Let me state for the record that I believe Richard has served the city well, both as a City Manager and Council Member. He is an honest, principled man, and I have no issues with him personally. In fact, I like him as a person. I do believe, however, that the council should move forward with our discussions and planning so we can consider what is in the best interest of the city of Oshkosh.
-Bryan
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