Mayor Pizzillo called the Work Session to order at 5:00 p.m.

[Vice Mayor Hampton participated by telephone.]

Wynette Reed, City Manager, presented information regarding interim positions within Goodyear's leadership team. She explained that Guideline 320 authorizes the City Manager to approve employees to serve in an acting or interim capacity to temporarily fulfill duties of a higher-level position, with assignments not to exceed two years.

In response to Council inquiry, Ms. Reed reported that six positions are currently being filled on an interim basis and that none have exceeded the allowed timeframe. She also noted that, due to her anticipated retirement, recruitment for the Director-level positions will occur with the incoming City Manager.

Councilwoman Gillis shared that she has received constituent concerns regarding the number of interim positions, the duration of those assignments, and staffing in other roles in the organization. 

Roric Massey, City Attorney, clarified that the discussion should remain focused on interim appointments but could be brought back to Council if there is interest in discussing staffing more broadly.

Councilwoman Gills and Vice Mayor Hampton expressed support for lowering the timeframe outlined in the Guideline.

Council discussed the benefits of interim appointments, including supporting recruitment efforts, providing professional development opportunities, allowing time to identify the right candidate, and enabling the City Manager to manage operations effectively.

In response to Council inquiry, Ms. Reed stated that there have been no service interruptions related to the interim assignments and that compensation adjustments are addressed in the Guideline.