HomeMy WebLinkAbout06-11-24 Public Comment - A. Kociolek - Consent Item G.4 Affion Contract for Dir of Community Development SearchFrom:Angela Kociolek
To:Bozeman Public Comment
Subject:[EXTERNAL]Consent Item G.4 Affion Contract for Dir of Community Development Search
Date:Tuesday, June 11, 2024 11:58:53 AM
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Dear City Commissioners,
I’m writing in reference to Consent item G.4 on tonight’s agenda.
Given the shocking events that led to this moment; ie the video, I would have expected more transparency from the
City on the role of the Community Development Director, her resignation, and her replacement. Thank goodness for
astute fellow residents who keep us in the know. Otherwise, I would not have been aware of the Affion contract that
might be signed tonight.
Here are my thoughts, questions and requests:
1. Despite the circumstances that led up to the Director of Community Development position becoming vacant, it is
a prime opportunity for needed change in the department. Let’s see this as a positive.
2. I request that item G.4. be moved from Consent items so that a full discussion, disclosure and Q&A can occur
about the recruitment of arguably one of the most important and powerful positions within our City staff.
3. Question: I see the City has hired Scott Reilly, Affion CEO in the past but was he used for the recruitment of Jeff
Mihelich and/or Anna Bently? If so, it may behoove the City to consider a different company with a better track
record for us. We deserve better - or at least a change. If Affion was involved with their hiring, spending money
rehiring them seems not the proper use of public funds.
4. What background, education and experience is the City planning to request in its job description? In developing
the candidate profile, what “others” and neighborhood associations, community leaders willl be formally invited
along with decision makes and elected officials (Affion pitch pg. 6)? When would the public have a chance to weigh
in on what we want to see in a new Director of Community Development?
Here is my short list:
a. Demonstrated experience with Urban Ecology principles and practices, in addition to City Planning.
b. Demonstrated experience in holding high standards for environmental review, reporting, and
institutionalized practice of avoiding, minimizing and mitigating impacts.
c. Demonstrated experience working with the public on finding solutions and resolving concerns in a way that
protects natural resources during the act of development.
5. I am heartened to see that in-house applicants may be considered as well - not just those from outside. I believe it
is important for City staff to be able to expect opportunities for upward mobility here in Bozeman. But only if they
meet all the qualifications, of course.
6. Now that Bozeman has grown as much as it has, it may be time for the City to consider expanding its own Human
Resource capabilities and forego the hiring of expensive outside consultants for such activities.
In conclusion, I request that you, the Commission, consider all I’ve shared in this comment and that you find the
most suitable way to do your search for a new Director of Community Development.
Sincerely,
Angie Kociolek
620 N Tracy Ave
Bozeman, MT 59715