Monday, February 21, 2000
City thinks high-tech in 2000
Hamilton sets goals during retreat
BY JENNY CALLISON
Enquirer contributor
HAMILTON — Creation of a citywide fiber optic loop plan and preparing for the deregulation of electric power topped the list of major goals at the city of Hamilton's annu al retreat Saturday.
The daylong session, held at Berkeley Square retirement community, involved representatives of Hamilton's 16 departments as well as the city manager, mayor and City Council.
Starting with a list of goals for 2000 submitted by each department and by council, participants were asked to review them with a “big picture” focus and to decide which goals were most important. Goals were awarded points, with each department having 200 points to assign.
Although some participants voiced concern about a few of the rankings, no one seriously challenged them. Two goals related to electric deregulation made the top five. And several participants spoke in favor of the fiber optic loop goal.
“It is a big development tool,” said Jim Boerke, planning director.
Others emphasized the need for the city to own or at least control the information highway.
Other highly ranked goals included:
• Refinement of the Team Hamilton process, which fosters collegial work environments within city departments.
• Development of a Neilan Boulevard relocation plan to enhance the city's waterfront.
• Stepped-up economic development efforts.
• Creation of an attractive “gateway” at the east end of High Street.
• Spanish classes for city employees.
“I think we have to give ourselves credit that we have a variety of goals and are seeing the bigger picture,” said Chuck Howard, a Team Hamilton representative.
“Ultimately this is a management tool for the city manager and council to try to set priorities; where we are going to put the big effort here,” said Thomas P. Kruglinski of Labor-Management Resource Network, who facilitated the planning session.
City Manager Stephen Sorrell emphasized that department heads will still be responsible for completion of all goals they have identified for the current year. The goals seen as most important, however, will be developed into an overall strategic plan by Mr. Sorrell and City Council.
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