Prop 1 proposes to change Clyde Hill’s form of government to the Council-Manager form. As a result of this change, the City Council can hire and fire a City Manager with a simple majority. The City of Sammamish uses this proposed Council-Manager form of government.
Recently, Sammamish paid an estimated $400,000 in severance to part ways with their latest city manager (Sammamish Independent Link). According to the Seattle Times, in 2018 $300,000 was paid in severance to another City Manager. It has been a revolving door for Sammamish as they have gone through six city managers (three permanent, one interim, and two acting city managers in the last five years, Seattle Times Link).
If Prop 1 passes:
- Could Clyde Hill be stuck in the same situation?
- Would this constant churn of City Managers cause major disruptions to services for the residents of Clyde Hill?
- Would property tax have to be increased (levy lid lift) to pay for the multiple rounds of severance packages and hiring-related fees?
What is happening in Sammamish serves as a cautionary tale. Is this proposed change in government best for Clyde Hill?
The article links here:
Vote No on Prop 1