Fellow Baker City citizens. I’d like to address the word “opportunity.” On Oct. 2 I reached out to our Interim city manager, asking for consideration of proactive measures to formalize potential new sustainable general fund revenue sources — aimed to empower the incoming City Council for a seamless transition.

I proposed that our Interim city manager prioritize initiatives, differentiating those requiring citizen votes from those with immediate implementation potential. Simultaneously, the creation of “town hall” materials for public input was suggested, with the City Council’s presence not being a prerequisite — some argue it’s within the scope of the role. Additionally, I felt this presents an opportunity for him to showcase his skills for the full-time position.

Imagine if our city manager spearheaded initiatives like establishing formal analysis and city vote procedures for a gas fee or a short-term lodging fee. Or the reconsideration and level-set of city franchise fees and/or repurposing the $250K ambulance (currently dormant) into a Medical Transport Service, and collective materials for town hall input.

Such proactive actions by our city manager would fortify Baker City’s new Council potential for success in FY2024-FY2025 while highlighting his value for the full-time role.

Sadly, I received an automated out-of-office response: “I will be away until October 11th. Longer-term matters will need to wait until my return. Sincerely, Jon France, Interim City Manager, Baker City OR.”

Thankfully, Baker City GOV remains sunny, engaged, and has its ducks in order ready for the new City Council to hit the ground running day-one! #businessasusual

Michael Russell

Baker City