GOING ON NOW: CITY OFFICIALS LIST BIGGEST WEAKNESSES

Just after 9 am, a dozen of San Carlos' most important decision makers - sans council member and former mayor Randy Royce - sat in a half-circle inside the community room on the second floor of the library and discussed the city's biggest weaknesses.

As part of the annual city strategic retreat, the officials were broken up into groups of three and four, where they brainstormed areas for improvement for the city.

"Uncertainty as to what will happen with fire," shouted out Mayor Omar Ahmad to start off the session. "Challenge with Unfunded liabilities," added council member Bob Grassilli. 

"City Hall is confusing and unwelcoming," said Ahmad. "Insufficient training dollars for staff," said Assistant City Manager Brian Moura. 

"Low-employee morale!" exclaimed City Clerk Christine Boland. "Low citizen moral," remarked citizen Pat Ball in a hushed voice. Bell was one of three citizens and to attend the retreat.

Other weaknesses listed by the city included: stretched staff resources, lack of public works records management, room for improvement for emergency preparedness, problems with data computer technology and reduced IT staff, key vacancies in city hall staff, lack of accessibility for people with disabilities, and lack of city attorney presence at City Hall.

The weaknesses were listed by a mediator in magic marker on whiteboards. The point of the exercise was to list weaknesses and then follow up with goals and a list of accomplishments!

Check back with us to hear some solutions and accomplishments from City Officals!