When Proposition No. 1 passes in November, Port Orchard will become a non-charter code city and it will also transition to a council-city manager form of government. What is the process for instituting this change in governmental form once the election is certified?

First, all sitting council members will be required to stand for re-election in early 2014. This special election will be held on either the second Tuesday in February or the fourth Tuesday in April. Terms will be staggered as they are now.

The mayor’s position will remain unchanged until after the new council is elected. At that time, the mayor’s position will be eliminated.

This new city council will be responsible for selecting and hiring the city manager. This individual will serve at the pleasure of the city council. The city council is responsible for setting strategic directions as well as the goals and objectives that the city manager will be accountable for achieving.

The city manager will be responsible for directing the day to day operations of the city government, providing policy advice, handling personnel matters, and preparing the annual budget.

Port Orchard is one of the fastest growing cities in Washington state and deserves professional management so that it can continue to grow while also delivering the quality of services that its residents deserve.

Please vote Yes on Proposition No. 1 this November.

Richard H. Peterson | Port Orchard