HomeMy WebLinkAbout09-08-20 Public Comment - C. Neumann - Mayor Chris MehlFrom:Cora Neumann
To:Agenda
Subject:Mayor Chris Mehl
Date:Tuesday, September 8, 2020 10:27:07 AM
Dear Bozeman City Commission,
I am writing to share with you my experiences with Mayor Chris Mehl, from the perspective
of a public health expert working to support our community's and state's response to COVID.
Over the past 6 months, I have met or spoken with Chris every 2-4 weeks re: COVID responseto share feedback from public health leaders on best practices, effective tools, and to generally
touch base. Chris has been consistently receptive to ideas and feedback, has been generous inconnecting me/my team to relevant local and state leaders, and has not only been open to, but
has proactively invited feedback on ways he and the city can improve.
A core, central tenet of effective pandemic response involves regular and transparent feedbackwith your constituents. Chris has consistently and thoroughly reported out to constituents, and
made himself available for questions and comments. As local leaders, you have also all facedquickly changing state and federal directives, at times only hearing about directives shortly
before they are announced. From my perspective, Chris has managed this well, and has keptthe community up-to-date as quickly as possible.
Professionally, as a member of COVID Local led by the former director of the White House
pandemic team, I can share that Chris stood out as a leader in our state. His willingness toshare and integrate feedback, and commitment to learning and improving, stood out.
I cannot speak to the internal issues being addressed by the Commission. But I write today to
recognize the leadership and commitment Mayor Chris Mehl has demonstrated during thisvery unpredictable and challenging time.
Thank you very much for your consideration.
Sincerely,
CoraBozeman resident
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Cora Neumann, PhD, MPHwearemontana.org | covidlocal.org
(406) 285 - 8903