2012 City Manager Evaluation - Community Partners

1. Demonstrates the ability to develop and implement creative or innovative solutions to the critical issues facing the community.
Response Percent (1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (N/A) 0.0% 2.9% 5.7% 34.3% 51.4% 5.7% answered question skipped question Response Count 0 1 2 12 18 2 35 0

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2. When making decisions, systematically evaluates alternatives in terms of potential impacts or consequences.
Response Percent (1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (N/A) 0.0% 2.9% 5.7% 22.9% 62.9% 5.7% answered question skipped question Response Count 0 1 2 8 22 2 35 0

3. When decisions are being made, demonstrates the ability to collaborate and seek group solutions - to work out "win-win" solutions.
Response Percent (1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (N/A) 0.0% 2.9% 2.9% 20.0% 71.4% 2.9% answered question skipped question Response Count 0 1 1 7 25 1 35 0

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4. Is insightful regarding the dynamics of organizational change and its impact on constituents, employees, and services.
Response Percent (1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (N/A) 0.0% 0.0% 5.7% 28.6% 65.7% 2.9% answered question skipped question Response Count 0 0 2 10 23 1 35 0

5. Comments regarding questions 1 - 4. Please indicate the specific question to which the comment applies, if applicable:
Response Count 8 answered question skipped question 8 27

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6. Maintains effective working relationships with local and regional governments.

Response Percent (1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (N/A) 0.0% 2.9% 2.9% 32.4% 50.0% 11.8% answered question skipped question Response Count 0 1 1 11 17 4 34 1

7. Maintains effective working relationships with state governments.

Response Percent (1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (N/A) 0.0% 2.9% 8.8% 20.6% 35.3% 35.3% answered question skipped question Response Count 0 1 3 7 12 12 34 1

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8. Maintains effective working relationships with the federal government.

Response Percent (1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (N/A) 0.0% 0.0% 11.8% 26.5% 26.5% 35.3% answered question skipped question Response Count 0 0 4 9 9 12 34 1

9. Comments regarding questions 6 - 8. Please indicate the specific question to which the comment applies, if applicable:
Response Count 7 answered question skipped question 7 28

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10. Maintains an image of the City to the community that represents service, integrity, sensitivity to public needs, and professionalism through his own conduct.
Response Percent (1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (N/A) 0.0% 0.0% 3.0% 15.2% 78.8% 3.0% answered question skipped question Response Count 0 0 1 5 26 1 33 2

11. Demonstrates the ability to work successfully in an ethnically, culturally, and racially diverse community in a way that demonstrates sensitivity.
Response Percent (1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (N/A) 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 21.2% 75.8% 3.0% answered question skipped question Response Count 0 0 0 7 25 1 33 2

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12. Enjoys the respect of members of the community, as well as other members of the Public Administration profession.
Response Percent (1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (N/A) 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 21.2% 75.8% 3.0% answered question skipped question Response Count 0 0 0 7 25 1 33 2

13. Works cooperatively with all groups to find solutions to shared problems, issues, and/or opportunities.
Response Percent (1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (N/A) 0.0% 3.0% 0.0% 27.3% 66.7% 3.0% answered question skipped question Response Count 0 1 0 9 22 1 33 2

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14. Facilitates candid, effective, and productive meetings.

Response Percent (1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (N/A) 0.0% 0.0% 6.1% 30.3% 51.5% 12.1% answered question skipped question Response Count 0 0 2 10 17 4 33 2

15. Responds to internal and external requests in a timely manner.

Response Percent (1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (N/A) 0.0% 3.0% 15.2% 27.3% 45.5% 9.1% answered question skipped question Response Count 0 1 5 9 15 3 33 2

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16. Comments regarding questions 10 - 15. Please indicate the specific question to which the comment applies, if applicable:
Response Count 7 answered question skipped question 7 28

17. Suggests creative solutions to the City's financial needs.

Response Percent (1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (N/A) 0.0% 0.0% 3.0% 39.4% 39.4% 21.2% answered question skipped question Response Count 0 0 1 13 13 7 33 2

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18. Keeps expenditures within budgetary constraints.

Response Percent (1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (N/A) 0.0% 0.0% 6.1% 27.3% 45.5% 24.2% answered question skipped question Response Count 0 0 2 9 15 8 33 2

19. Monitors citywide financial performance regularly and takes corrective action as needed.
Response Percent (1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (N/A) 0.0% 0.0% 3.0% 27.3% 42.4% 27.3% answered question skipped question Response Count 0 0 1 9 14 9 33 2

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20. Alerts City Commission to changes or trends that may affect the City's future financial condition.
Response Percent (1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (N/A) 0.0% 0.0% 3.0% 15.2% 33.3% 48.5% answered question skipped question Response Count 0 0 1 5 11 16 33 2

21. Comments regarding questions 17 - 20. Please indicate the specific question to which the comment applies, if applicable:
Response Count 5 answered question skipped question 5 30

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22. Fosters continued professional development, personal growth and learning among City government staff.
Response Percent (1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (N/A) 0.0% 0.0% 12.5% 12.5% 34.4% 40.6% answered question skipped question Response Count 0 0 4 4 11 13 32 3

23. Provides a participatory management environment for City employees

Response Percent (1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (N/A) 0.0% 0.0% 6.3% 21.9% 40.6% 31.3% answered question skipped question Response Count 0 0 2 7 13 10 32 3

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24. Demonstrates the ability to collaborate and seek group solutions.

Response Percent (1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (N/A) 0.0% 3.1% 6.3% 18.8% 62.5% 9.4% answered question skipped question Response Count 0 1 2 6 20 3 32 3

25. The Manager's efforts lead to the successful and timely accomplishment of goals.
Response Percent (1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (N/A) 0.0% 3.1% 6.3% 21.9% 50.0% 18.8% answered question skipped question Response Count 0 1 2 7 16 6 32 3

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26. Ensures City staff also treats everyone with respect and dignity.
Response Percent (1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (N/A) 0.0% 3.1% 9.4% 21.9% 43.8% 21.9% answered question skipped question Response Count 0 1 3 7 14 7 32 3

27. Values diversity of opinion, ideas, and views.

Response Percent (1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (N/A) 0.0% 0.0% 3.1% 18.8% 71.9% 6.3% answered question skipped question Response Count 0 0 1 6 23 2 32 3

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28. Plans, organizes, and supervises implementation of ongoing City programs and services.
Response Percent (1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (N/A) 0.0% 0.0% 9.4% 15.6% 53.1% 21.9% answered question skipped question Response Count 0 0 3 5 17 7 32 3

29. Comments regarding questions 22 - 28. Please indicate the specific question to which the comment applies, if applicable:
Response Count 6 answered question skipped question 6 29

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30. Keeps the City Commission advised of new legislation and developments in public policy as well as actions in other jurisdictions that may have an impact on the City's activities
Response Percent (1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (N/A) 0.0% 0.0% 9.4% 12.5% 31.3% 46.9% answered question skipped question Response Count 0 0 3 4 10 15 32 3

31. Organizes program planning in anticipation of future needs and problems and establishes common goals to be adopted by the City Commission.
Response Percent (1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (N/A) 0.0% 0.0% 6.3% 25.0% 34.4% 34.4% answered question skipped question Response Count 0 0 2 8 11 11 32 3

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32. Demonstrates the ability to define and communicate a vision for the future of our City that captures the support of the citizens and institutions of our community.
Response Percent (1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (N/A) 0.0% 3.1% 9.4% 31.3% 40.6% 15.6% answered question skipped question Response Count 0 1 3 10 13 5 32 3

33. Comments regarding questions 30 - 32. Please indicate the specific question to which the comment applies, if applicable:
Response Count 3 answered question skipped question 3 32

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34. Effectively implements policies and programs approved by the City Commission.
Response Percent (1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (N/A) 0.0% 0.0% 3.2% 25.8% 41.9% 29.0% answered question skipped question Response Count 0 0 1 8 13 9 31 4

35. Keeps the City Commission informed of current plans and activities of administration and new developments in technology, legislation, governmental practices, and regulations.
Response Percent (1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (N/A) 0.0% 0.0% 6.5% 19.4% 25.8% 48.4% answered question skipped question Response Count 0 0 2 6 8 15 31 4

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36. Communicates the City Commission's policies and positions effectively to staff and the public.
Response Percent (1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (N/A) 0.0% 3.2% 6.5% 35.5% 41.9% 12.9% answered question skipped question Response Count 0 1 2 11 13 4 31 4

37. Maintains knowledge of current and innovative trends in the area of local government services and incorporates that knowledge in program suggestions and research.
Response Percent (1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (N/A) 0.0% 3.2% 3.2% 32.3% 48.4% 12.9% answered question skipped question Response Count 0 1 1 10 15 4 31 4

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38. Comments regarding questions 30 - 37. Please indicate the specific question to which the comment applies, if applicable:
Response Count 3 answered question skipped question 3 32

39. Please rate the City Manager's performance overall.

Response Percent (1) Unacceptable (2) Needs Improvement (3) Meets Expectations (4) Exceeds Expectations (5) Outstanding 0.0% 3.3% 3.3% 23.3% 70.0% answered question skipped question Response Count 0 1 1 7 21 30 5

40. Identify any current actions by the City Manager that you would most like to see him continue.
Response Count 15 answered question skipped question 15 20

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41. Identify any current actions by the City Manager that you would like him to discontinue.
Response Count 2 answered question skipped question 2 33

42. Identify any actions not currently being undertaken by the City Manager that you would like to see him implement.
Response Count 6 answered question skipped question 6 29

43. Name (optional):

Response Count 9 answered question skipped question 9 26

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Page 1, Q5. Comments regarding questions 1 - 4. Please indicate the specific question to which the comment applies, if applicable:

1 2

#1 and #2 - I don't interact with Ken in these areas. #4. All of my interaction with CM Has been on cross-jurisdiction boards and committees. I would characterize the CM's ability in this area as both insightful and appropriately protective of the City's interests. None *1 - - Seeks and meets with community leaders when making budget reduction considerations. Takes a very open and non-combative approach My responses are specifically related to our relationship as city management colleagues. Ken does a great job. Ken is unique is his empathy for internal and external stakeholders, and he understands the impact of decisions on both constituencies. I believe that capacity for empathy makes him more cautious than he needs to be, sometimes, more tolerant of inertia. But he has a good team, and he's trusted. Those assets make him an effective leader. I worked with Ken in my community volunteer and work roles prior to me leaving Battle Creek just recently. Ken went out of his way to seek feedback from me, particularly when it came to young professionals and he really listened to that feedback. One thing I suggested to him was, if he wanted feedback from young professionals other than just me, that he start attending Battle Creek Area Young Professionals events. And he did! By attending regularly, the young professionals began (and still do) see him as a true partner and he was able to gain their feedback on a wide variety of issues. He even encouraged his employees to also get involved with our group and others. More importantly, I trust Ken a lot. I always felt that I could be completely honest with him and the information would stay between us, but be used as a tool by him to better Battle Creek.

May 17, 2012 9:00 AM May 17, 2012 7:04 AM

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May 17, 2012 5:46 AM May 8, 2012 8:40 AM May 6, 2012 7:39 AM May 6, 2012 4:40 AM May 5, 2012 7:11 PM

May 4, 2012 2:32 PM

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Page 2, Q9. Comments regarding questions 6 - 8. Please indicate the specific question to which the comment applies, if applicable:

1 2 3 4 5 6

I don't interact with Ken in these areas. #7 and 8. No knowledge or contact with CM in these areas. none Marked (N/A) to the question above as I'm not familiar with his performance in these areas. I do not know Ken in this capacity and am unable to comment. My perception is that Ken effectively expresses the interests of the city through avenues available - through elected leaders, for example, and through the professional departments that are relevant. I worked with Ken in my community volunteer and work roles prior to me leaving Battle Creek just recently. Ken went out of his way to seek feedback from me, particularly when it came to young professionals and he really listened to that feedback. One thing I suggested to him was, if he wanted feedback from young professionals other than just me, that he start attending Battle Creek Area Young Professionals events. And he did! By attending regularly, the young professionals began (and still do) see him as a true partner and he was able to gain their feedback on a wide variety of issues. He even encouraged his employees to also get involved with our group and others. More importantly, I trust Ken a lot. I always felt that I could be completely honest with him and the information would stay between us, but be used as a tool by him to better Battle Creek.

May 17, 2012 9:01 AM May 17, 2012 7:05 AM May 17, 2012 5:47 AM May 7, 2012 10:36 AM May 7, 2012 8:51 AM May 5, 2012 7:15 PM

May 4, 2012 2:32 PM

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Page 3, Q16. Comments regarding questions 10 - 15. Please indicate the specific question to which the comment applies, if applicable:

Regarding #14 - I believe Ken has had to deal with a culture that has not been candid and effective in the past. While he aspires to candid, effective meetings, he is not always surrounded by others who share the same values. 12. Ken is very visible in the community and is highly respected by all groups. none Ken is an outstanding community leader. Trustworthy, reliable, creative, visible, and supportive! *13 - - The difference is between night and day with this City Manager vs. the previous. The former City Manager's approach was, "take it or leave it" or "it's my way or the highway". This City Manager is creative and sympathetic to the plights of all involved, meets with key individuals in a non-combative discussion on resolving issues. Ken is a very open and approachable person. He is a great leader and has gone to great efforts to make Battle Creek a great place to live, work, play and invest in. His collaboration with various stakeholders is beyond the norm. Battle Creek is fortunate to have him. Ken is a true partner and collaborator in the community.

May 17, 2012 9:01 AM

2 3 4 5

May 17, 2012 7:33 AM May 17, 2012 5:47 AM May 13, 2012 7:07 AM May 8, 2012 8:47 AM

May 7, 2012 10:37 AM

May 7, 2012 8:51 AM

Page 4, Q21. Comments regarding questions 17 - 20. Please indicate the specific question to which the comment applies, if applicable:

1 2 3 4

I don't interact with Ken in these areas. #17-20. No interaction with CM on these items. none *17-20 - - - It is hard to know for sure if the City Manager is the one to praise for these questions, but he is to be praised for selecting an Assistant City Manager with these skills and allowing him and other staff members to do their job - - then making the tough decisions as needed. I have no knowledge here.

May 17, 2012 9:01 AM May 17, 2012 7:07 AM May 17, 2012 5:47 AM May 8, 2012 8:50 AM

May 6, 2012 4:43 AM

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Page 5, Q29. Comments regarding questions 22 - 28. Please indicate the specific question to which the comment applies, if applicable:

1 2 3 4 5

I don't interact with Ken in all of these areas. I know several city employees who are very complimentary of Ken's leadership and management skills. #22, 23 and 28. No interactio with CM on these issues. none Not being a City employee it is hard to answer these questions, however, knowing many of these employees and from what I have witnessed, I would say he is doing an outstanding job in this area. I can think of a few exceptions among the city's staff who fall short of Ken's standard of treating people with respect.

May 17, 2012 9:02 AM May 17, 2012 7:35 AM May 17, 2012 7:08 AM May 17, 2012 5:47 AM May 8, 2012 8:53 AM

May 5, 2012 7:20 PM

Page 6, Q33. Comments regarding questions 30 - 32. Please indicate the specific question to which the comment applies, if applicable:

1 2 3

I don't interact with Ken in all of these areas. #30-32. No interaction with CM on these issues. none

May 17, 2012 9:02 AM May 17, 2012 7:08 AM May 17, 2012 5:48 AM

Page 7, Q38. Comments regarding questions 30 - 37. Please indicate the specific question to which the comment applies, if applicable:

1 2 3

I don't interact with Ken in all of these areas. #34-36. No interactio with CM on these issues. none

May 17, 2012 9:03 AM May 17, 2012 7:09 AM May 17, 2012 5:48 AM

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Page 9, Q40. Identify any current actions by the City Manager that you would most like to see him continue.

From my viewpoint, Ken is particularly effective in: -Speaking gently but candidly and encouraging others to do the same -Representing our City in a positive manner -Collaborating with other spheres of influence around the community strong financial oversight of city, which has included long term approach. Exhibits a very good image in the community, and works very well with various community organizations and their leaders. I am concerned about the size of government at all levels so I encourage Ken to seek ways to reduce the size and cost of city government. Keep up the good work! Continue to effectively manage budget I find the Manager to be thoughtful, deliberative, and very competent. He has a refreshing sense of humilty that always seems to put the needs of the community above his own. This, in my opinion, enhances his effectiveness and provides good modeling for others -- both within and outside of City government. I look forward to watching him continue to grow in this very challenging role. Remain visible and connected to other organizations in our community. Continue to provide the City of Battle Creek's leadership in facilitating a "win-win" plan for identifying and subsequently developing the strategy to relocate Arcadia Brewing Company's Brewpub, Distillery and Restaurant within the 100 block of Michigan Avenue by October of 2014. Talking with those community organizations and leaders about his plans or concerns prior to making a final decision. This is what has made him so community conscious. Continue colloborative efforts with Calhoun County, including Dispatch Authority, GIS efforts. Include County in records management discussions and seek more county-wide solutions to common problems. These aren't necessary "action" but his way of being approachable, transparent, easily accessible is valued. Ken is very willing to partner with the nonprofit, corporate and public organizations that make him so effective. This is a trmendous asset for the City of Battle Creek. upgrading the infrastructure downtown His collaborative spirit Ken is a good listener and, more importantly, I don't hear him whining about the cuts the city has been forced to make over the last few years - he just gets it done... See comments on page 1

May 17, 2012 9:08 AM

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May 13, 2012 7:08 AM May 9, 2012 1:25 PM

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Page 9, Q41. Identify any current actions by the City Manager that you would like him to discontinue.

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none None.

May 17, 2012 5:51 AM May 7, 2012 10:42 AM

Page 9, Q42. Identify any actions not currently being undertaken by the City Manager that you would like to see him implement.

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Work with neighborhoods and schools to devleop a master plan in safe walkways and bicycle paths through the city Ken has been in his position long enough to be more emphatic about transparency rather than politicking in some areas. He probably underestimates his influence, and may have the ability to do more to change the culture here in Battle Creek. hold city staff or departments accountable for timely responsiveness to community groups, individuals, citizens or businesses requiring assistance. implement systematic, zero-tolerance code enforcement approach city wide. Will require a supportive city commission which should make a public statement about it's support of a zero tolerance approach. Responding to messages in a more timely manner. For the most part he does, but there are times that he doesn't. That being said, he does have a lot to deal with on a daily basis and may plan on getting back right away and something else comes up; then time passes. Perhaps more public speaking engagements conveying information about the City. A communitywide marketing and recruitment effort to attract new residents to buy or rent homes in Battle Creek. This isn't typically the role for a city manager, but the organizations in Battle Creek that should be doing this already (major employers, chamber, visitor bureau, realtors association, etc.) are not doing it effectively or in concert with each other. Ken is plenty busy and doesn't need more to do, but someone with real power needs to take the lead on a mission to attract residents who will populate our schools, churches, stores and tax rolls.

May 17, 2012 2:36 PM May 17, 2012 9:08 AM

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May 8, 2012 9:10 AM

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May 7, 2012 10:42 AM May 4, 2012 2:00 PM

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Page 9, Q43. Name (optional):

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

Talia Champlin Tim Rod Auton Dennis Bona Tim Suprise Chris Sargent Dave Powell Frank Peterson Nicole Finkbeiner

May 17, 2012 9:08 AM May 17, 2012 7:39 AM May 17, 2012 5:51 AM May 13, 2012 10:12 AM May 9, 2012 1:25 PM May 7, 2012 8:54 AM May 6, 2012 7:44 AM May 6, 2012 4:47 AM May 4, 2012 2:35 PM

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