HomeMy WebLinkAboutMemo - Mail Packet - 11/30/2021 - Memorandum From Teresa Roche Re: Feedback By November 30 - City Manager Recruitment Brochure
Human Resources Department
215 N. Mason, 2nd Floor
Fort Collins, CO 80522
970.221.653
MEMORANDUM
DATE: November 23, 2021
TO: Mayor and City Councilmembers
FROM: Teresa Roche, Chief Human Resources Officer
CC: Mark McDaniel, SGR
RE: Feedback by 11/30: City Manager Recruitment Brochure
_____________________________________________________________________
I begin with gratitude for your support and partnership.
Attached are two different options for the City Manager Recruitment Brochure, and I welcome
your feedback on the brochure in general, one specific section, and the anticipated hiring range.
Option 1:
Page 1, Paragraph 2
I did deeper research this past weekend, spoke to a few community members, and want to
encourage you to consider a return to the wording originally proposed that acknowledges and
honors those who helped make Fort Collins what it is today with an additional statement.
“The expansion brought new residents whose descendants still live here today, including
Mexican-American families from southern Colorado, New Mexico, and northern Mexico,
Germans from Russia, and other immigrant families who settled here in the 1800s.”
Option 2:
Page 1, Paragraph 2
The brochure remains with the statement proposed last week.
“The expansion brought new residents whose descendants still live here today.”
Page 8 Total Compensation
Colorado Pay Equity Act requires every posting to include the hiring range and the anticipated
hiring range. Jamie Heckman and I will be sharing more details with you on December 7
regarding the market data for your three employees. For 2022, the range of dollars for base
salary for the City Manager are:
10th 25th 50th 75th 90th
$223,740 $229,604 $256,456 $297,426 $355,412
Mark’s counsel is to set the anticipated hiring range from $295,000 to $350,000. Your
thoughts, please?
As you know, your hire will have an employment agreement, and the Council will decide the
total compensation.
TR
The City of Fort Collins, Colorado
Invites Qualified Candidates to Apply for
CITY MANAGER
The Opportunity
The City of Fort Collins faces a pivotal moment in our community as we
transform from a big town to a small city. We are looking for a
compassionate servant leader with a collaborative management style
who can build on our strengths and lean into our challenges with a
commitment to listen to all voices as we work on mutual goals to
strengthen the region and our city.
Option 1
2
Milken Institute, April 2021
Tier 1 Best Performing Cities
Platinum Bicycle
Friendly Community
League of American
Bicyclists 2021
The Community
The City of Fort Collins sits nestled against the foothills of the Rocky Mountains
alongside the Cache La Poudre River banks. At 5,000 feet in elevation, residents
enjoy a moderate, four-season climate, with an average of 300 days of sunshine
per year. With 174,800 residents, Fort Collins is Colorado’s fourth-largest city
and spans 57 square miles. With the 20-year growth projection, the City of Fort
Collins is expected to reach 255,000 residents.
The first people who hunted in this region arrived approximately 11,000 years
ago, and Northern Colorado remains an integral part of the traditional and
ancestral homelands of the Arapaho, Cheyenne, and Ute Nations. European-
American trappers and traders arrived by the early 1800s but rarely established
permanent settlements. Gold and silver discoveries in the Colorado mountains
in the mid- 1800s and the prospect of land for farming and ranching attracted
people from eastern cities and across the globe to the Colorado Territory,
including what would become the town of Fort Collins; an agricultural colony
that emerged from its founding days as a military camp. The expansion brought
new residents whose descendants still live here today, including Mexican-
American families from southern Colorado, New Mexico, and northern Mexico,
Germans from Russia, and other immigrant families who settled here in the
1800s.
Since 1879, Fort Collins has been the home of the state’s land grant institution,
Colorado State University, which currently enrolls 34,000 students. Along with
the University, the city’s major high-tech and manufacturing companies and
breweries attract new residents from all over the country and world. The city is
known for its unique innovative, entrepreneurial, and collaborative spirit that
brings together the public and private sectors and the Colorado State
University community. Fort Collins is the home of the Colorado State University
Energy Institute, whose mission is to deliver real-world energy and climate
solutions that address society’s most pressing global challenges, and
Innosphere Ventures, a science and technology incubator that accelerates the
business success of startups and emerging growth companies.
Our adaptability, openness to failure, risk-taking, the
overarching character of collaboration and strong ties
between leaders from the university, city government,
and local businesses, and a sense of community led
to Fort Collins being chosen by Smithsonian Institute
curators as one of the country’s most innovative places
for the exhibit, “Places of Invention.” People can make
a difference here and have contributed to the city’s
reputation for breakthrough inventions in clean energy
and socially responsible innovation.
We have exceptional medical systems, strong public and
private K-12 schools, and many recreational offerings for
families. We like to think every age can live, work, and
play in our community, and with 300 hundred of annual
sunshine, mild temperatures, and record snowfalls, it is
always a good time to come to Colorado.
The community’s overall social diversity continues
to grow, and there are abundant outdoor recreation
opportunities available to the many residents who enjoy
healthy lifestyles. The nearby Horsetooth Reservoir
is a key attraction, as is the Cache La Poudre-North
Park Scenic Byway. Thanks to voter support of sales
tax ballot measures, the City conserves valued lands
and provides recreation and educational access to our
community treasures.
There are 50 natural areas and over 100 miles of
trail encompassing more than 36,000 acres. Fort
Collins has a strong appreciation for arts, culture, and
entertainment and is known as the cultural hub of
northern Colorado. There are many great performance
theaters, museums, and art galleries to visit. The
Downtown district provides many venues for live music,
shopping, dining, and nightlife. Fort Collins is widely
considered the Craft Beer Capital of Colorado. Various
national organizations and magazines recognize Fort
Collins as one of the best places to live in the nation.
People come and want to build their lives here.
4
The Organization
The City of Fort Collins is a home rule city with a Council-Manager form of government. The City Council is
comprised of six District Councilmembers who are elected for four-year terms and a Mayor who is elected at-large
for a two-year term. All elected officials are nonpartisan. The City Council appoints the City Manager, City Attorney,
and the Chief Judge. The City Manager has overall responsibility for all other City employees. The City of Fort Collins
directly provides a full slate of municipal services, including operating its own electric, water, wastewater, and
stormwater utilities. The City of Fort Collins, at the direction of the City Council and voters, is moving forward with
building and implementing high-speed next-generation broadband to the entire community with expected
completion in 2022. Fire protection is provided by the Poudre Fire Authority (PFA). The City of Fort Collins operates
with a biennial budget and provides funding for municipal operations, including approximately 2,500 employees.
The City of Fort Collins aspires to provide outstanding services to the community while cultivating a strong
organizational culture for its employees. To achieve the vision, both internal and external services are data-informed
and implemented according to organizational values.
The City develops resiliency and sustainability through organization-wide systems and processes that ensure
consistent employee work practices and alignment across service areas. The City places a high value on public input
and strives to include community members as fellow problem solvers whenever possible. Residents can expect to
receive exceptional service, engage with decision-makers, provide input regarding the allocation of City resources,
and access government information in a timely and transparent manner.
The City of Fort Collins recognizes and honors the legacy inherited from the decisions, relationships, and thoughtful
planning of those who cared deeply about our community. We also realize that we are a more robust, better
community when we welcome everyone to participate in shaping our future. The 2019 City Plan, which serves as our
long-range vision and development framework, shapes decision-making and funding priorities to implement the
future the community desires. Whether it is building a more inclusive and equitable community, supporting
entrepreneurship and innovation, addressing and mitigating the impacts of climate change, or creating additional
transportation and housing options, we are committed to partnering to make Fort Collins an even better place
for future generations. We know this means keeping our current infrastructure updated and maintained while
thinking ahead.
The City is a dynamic and continually evolving organization. However, the vision for the City, its mission, and core
values remain a constant that helps all employees focus on the primary goal: service to our community members.
This commitment is one that the nearly 2,500 City employees take seriously. From snowplow drivers and emergency
dispatchers, utility crews and recreation officials, IT specialists, and vehicle mechanics, the City workforce provides
high-quality municipal services around the clock across a wide variety of talents.
5
• 2021 Municipal Equality Index 100
• 2021 What Works Certified City:
Bloomberg Philanthropies
• No. 6, Safest Cities for Cyclists: Your Local Security -
May 2021
• No. 8, Colorado City Ranked Among ‘Most Relaxed’ in
Country: Out There Colorado - April 2021
• No. 4, 25 Best Cities in the US to Own an Electric Car:
24/7 Wall St - April 2021
• No. 5, 2021 Top 10 Remote-Ready Cities in the US:
Livability - January 2021
• Clean Air Champion: RAQC - December 2020
• No. 8, Most Fitness Friendly Places for 2021: Smart
Asset - December 2020
• No. 1, The Best Places to Live in America in 2020:
Market Watch - October 2020
• No. 1, 2020 Top 100 Places to Live: Livability.com -
October 2020
• No. 21, Top 30 Creative Small Cities: CVSuite -
May 2020
• No. 18, 20 Safest Cities in Colorado: SafeWise -
April 2020
Fort Collins is a community with a strong sense of place. It has gained
accolades as one of the best places for job seekers in Colorado, one of the best
towns in America, and among the healthiest, most livable, and bicycle-friendly.
Among the awards Fort Collins has won over the past two years are:
We believe these awards are possible due to our employees, volunteers, community members, partnerships in the city
and region, and the strong leadership from City Council.
Councilmembers and City leaders are engaged nationally and internationally on issues facing our community. The
City of Fort Collins is involved in Bloomberg Philanthropies and has received funding and consulting for several key
projects. This philanthropic organization focuses its resources on five areas: the environment, public health, the arts,
government innovation, and education. Mayor Jeni Arndt is one of the thirty-eight mayors from North America, Latin
America, Europe, and Africa selected for the Bloomberg Harvard City Leadership Initiative 2021-2022 program. The
intention is to equip mayors with the leadership and management tools to tackle complex challenges in their cities
and improve the quality of life of their residents.
Fort Collins was also selected as one of 30 U.S. cities participating in the What Works Cities City Budgeting for Equity
and Recovery program. This new effort will help cities confront budget crises while strengthening their commitment
to equity in the wake of COVID-19. The program will help cities develop and implement plans to drive financial
recovery and ensure that their budget crises do not disproportionately harm low-income residents and communities
of color. From the City’s 2021 application, we acknowledged, “The City of Fort Collins has a strong desire to invest in
long-term, meaningful equity advancement, and yet in the absence of the requisite models, knowledge, and abilities,
this is unchartered territory for our organization.”
The German Marshall Fund of the United States is a nonpartisan American public policy think tank and grant-making
institution dedicated to promoting cooperation and understanding between North America and Europe. Fort
Collins was chosen as one of twelve cities to participate in “Cities Fortifying Democracy,” a first-of-its-kind cohort of
American and European cities that will come together in teams to collaborate on what cities are and can be doing to
strengthen their resilience and the foundation of democracy from the ground up. Over the next 12 months, the cohort
— comprised of twelve five-person city teams —will zero in on the democratic vulnerabilities and innovations in four
key areas where local stakeholders can make a difference: governing, voting and elections, public safety and justice,
and local journalism.
6
The Opportunity
Fort Collins faces a pivotal moment in our community
as we transform from a big town to a small city. We are
looking for a leader who can build on our strengths and
lean into our challenges with a commitment to listen to
all voices as we work on mutual goals to strengthen the
region and our city. We have much to be proud of while
also recognizing our vulnerabilities and opportunities.
We know this means having healthy dialogues to
understand first before being understood and to find
common ground. We think of ourselves as problem
solvers and not just advocating for a point of view or an
agenda. We believe we only rise together, which requires
a regional orientation and a willingness to partner and
collaborate for shared success.
Reporting to the City Council, the City Manager provides
strategic and forward-looking leadership to the seven
outcome areas to ensure appropriate and effective
resource allocation supporting the community’s
priorities in Culture and Recreation, Economic Health,
Environmental Health, High Performing Government,
Neighborhood Livability, and Social Health, Safe
Community, and Transportation and Mobility.
The City uses the triple bottom line to bring the global
concept of sustainability to action at the local level.
We evaluate programs on their social, economic, and
environmental impacts resulting in an optimal mix of
resource efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and employee
and community well-being in daily City operations.
The City Manager leads and supports a large and varied
staff of passionate and talented employees with a
unified vision, collaborative style, and demonstrated
commitment to others. It will be vital that they
understand and take care of the organization with the
right resources and invest in the current infrastructure to
respond well to the community.
Fort Collins City Council - Susan Gutowsky, Julie Pignataro, Emily Francis,
Jeni Arndt (Mayor), Tricia Canonico, Shirley Peel, Kelly Ohlson
7
First Year Overview
The successful candidate will use the first year to
listen deeply and authentically and connect with the
community and develop critical partnerships for regional
collaboration and across sectors so that as the city
evolves, there is a solid foundation to co-create the
future. Additionally, they will continue leading the work
to address some of our longer-term challenges:
•Build positive relationships with the City Council,
Executive Leadership Team, and broader City
staff. Collectively work to understand our current
organization, operations, and culture to ensure
finances, talent, technology, and resources
are aligned to prioritize our time, energy, and
investments that lead to equitable outcomes and
support the greatest impact on the community.
•Focus on the talent of the City by providing clarity
and discernment of priorities, attracting top talent
to leadership positions and other openings in the
City. Understand and respond to organizational
fatigue from the continual challenges of the
pandemic, 2020 wildfires, and resignations by
investing in employees.
•Ensure our COVID-19 response and economic
recovery strategy centers on the needs of those
most affected by the pandemic. Identify long-term
funding that provides essential and sustainable
services and enables the community resiliency to
adapt and thrive.
•Engage in meaningful dialogues regarding urban
growth and development in our community.
•Facilitate continued conversations regarding
housing affordability and our unhoused population.
Collaborate to identify creative solutions, remain
equitable in our planning, and work towards the
vision that everyone has healthy, stable housing
they can afford.
•Work to meet the city’s climate action plan and take
bold, innovative, and collaborative actions to create
systemic change that fully addresses our climate
change initiatives and ensures our quality of life.
•Recognize and respond to those in our community
who have been historically marginalized and utilize
an equitable process to respond to the needs of our
entire community.
•Appreciate the City’ preservation ethic and
pursue the acquisition of additional open space
as overwhelmingly approved by voters in a
local election.
•Invest in the Citywide business digital
transformation of our business models,
processes, organization, and technologies
resulting in fundamental changes to how the
City operates and delivers value to residents,
businesses, and employees.
Newly installed The Hand that Feeds sculpture at Sugar Beet Park.
8
The Successful Candidate
The successful candidate is deeply committed to public
service and understands the local government’s unique
role in creating and sustaining a healthy, vibrant, and
resilient community where all members feel a sense
of belonging. They can keep the whole system in
perspective and possess system leadership, both a
mindset and a set of skills that includes seeing the system
by engaging diverse stakeholders and perspectives that
may challenge their views. They understand today’s
leadership is about learning and observing, balancing
tensions and paradoxes, and creating conditions and
adaptive spaces that enable others to develop, lead, and
collectively work towards shared goals that benefit the
entire system sustainably.
The candidate recognizes the importance of relationships
and partnerships at all levels and navigates political
and multi-sector relationships. They encourage broad
engagement, collaborate, and empower others to
significantly impact initiatives and ensure inclusive and
equitable experiences. The successful candidate values
diversity of thought, fosters mutual respect at all levels,
and effortlessly balances internal needs with external
initiatives. The candidate is considered an excellent
listener and communicator and is well known for sharing
complex information and being open, honest, and
transparent in all interactions.
The world continues to experience the effect of the
pandemic, and the systemic issues of climate change,
housing, food insecurity, social unrest, and the economic
and digital divide are felt in our community. So much
is changing exponentially, and simultaneously, the
candidate possesses the strong leadership skills
necessary for managing a large, complex environment.
They are considered bold, courageous, and innovative,
and willing to stay in the messy middle.
The candidate is known for co-creating and sustaining
an organizational culture built on trust and mutual
respect. They effectively leverage the organization’s
talents to meet the complexity, pace, and intensity of
providing exceptional services to our community. They
can lead by demonstrating continuity and transformation
simultaneously and navigating change with empathy,
understanding it is both an art and a science.
The candidate is self-aware, possesses a high degree
of emotional intelligence, and balances humility with
confidence. They are curious, lifelong learners, and willing
to acknowledge what they do not know. They bring a
blend of compassion and wisdom and the ability to drive
for results while attending to others in the process. They
are a horizontal player and collaborate well with others
where power is shared, and everyone’s contribution
matters toward collective success.
Total Compensation
The City of Fort Collins offers a competitive
comprehensive benefits package, including a
competitive market salary commensurate with
education and experience. Annual salary range is
$xx,xxx - $xxx,xxx and the anticipated annual hiring
salary range is $xxx,xxxx - $xxx,xxx. Salaries are paid
biweekly. Benefits include medical, dental, vision,
life, and short- and long-term disability insurance.
Additionally, the City of Fort Collins offers additional
benefits, including 401(a) and a 457 deferred
compensation plan with an employer contribution,
optional Health Savings Account, Flexible Spending
Accounts, and relocation assistance for the successful
out-of-area finalist. An employment contract for the
successful candidate will be negotiated with the
City Council.
Residency
Before the appointment, the City Manager need not be
a resident of the city; however, during their tenure in
office, the City Manager shall reside within the city.
One of three street art installations on Romero, Maple, and Hickory streets.
9
Education and Experience
Studies have shown that women and people of color
are less likely to apply for jobs unless they believe they
can perform every job description task. We are most
interested in finding the best candidate for the job,
and that candidate may come from a less traditional
background. The City may consider an equivalent
combination of knowledge, skills, education, and
experience to meet minimum qualifications.
Strong leadership experience and the ability to work
closely with the City Council and lead the organization
well are essential. A Bachelor’s degree in a related
field or an equivalent combination of education and
experience that enables success as the City Manager is
critical, and an advanced degree is preferred.
A minimum of seven years of recent, senior-level
executive management experience and responsibilities
in a large, complex organization. Knowledge
and experience related to municipal government
management and/or leading in a similar-sized agency
are desired. To view the full job description please click,
City Manager.
How To Apply
Applications accepted no later than XX 2021. Please
apply online at Strategic Government Resources.
For More Information, Please Contact:
Mark McDaniel
Senior Vice President, SGR
MarkMcDaniel@GovernmentResource.com
817-773-6558
The City of Fort Collins is an Equal Opportunity Employer
and values diversity at all levels of its workforce.
Applicants selected as finalists for this position will be
subject to a criminal history/credit/driver’s license check
prior to the interview. Under the Colorado Open Records
Act, information from your application or resume may be
subject to public disclosure.
APPLY ONLINE
Auxiliary aids and services are available for persons with disabilities.21-23744
10
Benefits Summary
City Manager
MEDICAL INSURANCE UMR (A UNITED HEALTHCARE
COMPANY)
PPO Tier 1/Tier 2: SelectColorado/Select Networks
•Effective: First day of the month following hire date
•Deductible (Tier 1): $350 Individual / $700 Family
•Out of Pocket Max (Tier 1): $5,000 Individual /
$10,000 Family
•Copay (Tier 1): $0 Primary Care / $40 Specialty
•Coinsurance (Tier 1): 80% Insurance / 20% You
High Deductible Health Plan (HDHP) with Health
Savings Account (HSA)
•Employer contribution HSA
•Effective: First day of the month following hire date
•Deductible (In-Network): $3,000 Individual /
$6,000 Family
•Out of Pocket Max: $4,000 Individual / $8,000
Family (In-Network)
•Coinsurance: 90% Insurance / 10% You (In-Network)
HEALTH CLINIC CITYCARE
CityCare, managed by Marathon Health, is our onsite
healthcare clinic providing services to employees and
family members covered under the City’s health plan.
Staffed with a Physician Assistant and health coach,
they treat a variety of common illnesses and injuries.
A full range of prevention, health coaching, and
assessments are provided in addition to sick care. There
is no cost to use CityCare under the PPO Plan. For the
HDHP, prevention is free, non-prevention $45.
LIFESTYLE MANAGEMENT
As part of the City’s commitment to offering benefit
coverage, which helps prevent injuries and illness,
the following preventative services are available to
employees and family members covered under the
City’s health plan;
Preventative Services Covered:
•Registered Dieticians
•Therapeutic Massage Therapy
•Acupuncture
•Biofeedback
These services are only a $20 copay, with a $500
maximum allowable benefit per service, per member,
per year.
Under HDHP:
•No copay
•Pay total amount which applies towards deductible
and out-of-pocket
DENTAL INSURANCE DELTA DENTAL
Effective: First day of the month following hire date
Prevention First: Diagnostic and preventative do not
count against the annual maximum
•Deductible: $50 Individual / $100 Family
•Max Benefit: $2,000 annually
•Basic Dental: Plan pays 80%, after deductible
(In-Network)
•Major Dental: Plan pays 50%, after deductible
(In-Network)
•Orthodontia: Plan pays 50%, after deductible
(In-Network), Lifetime Max $2,000
VISION INSURANCE VSP (Vision Service Plan)
•Effective: First day of the month following hire date
•Examination: Every 12 months, $15 Copay
•Lenses or Contacts: Every 12 months, Contact
allowance of up to $185
•Frames: Every 24 months, Frame allowance $185–$205
11
FLEXIBLE SPENDING ACCOUNTS (FSA) ALERUS
FSA accounts allow you to set aside pre-tax funds to
pay for eligible health and/or dependent care expenses
before your federal and Social Security taxes are
calculated.
•Health Care: employees may contribute up to
$2,750 per calendar year
•Dependent Care: employees may contribute up to
$5,000 per calendar year
•Carryover Provision: allows up to $550 unused
medical FSA contributions into the following year
BASIC LIFE INSURANCE AND AD&D
RELIANCE STANDARD
1x Annual Salary, up to $250,000 (employer-paid)
LIFE INSURANCE
RELIANCE STANDARD (SUPPLEMENTAL)
•Employee: up to $1,000,000 in $10,000 increments
(Guaranteed Issue $300K)
•Spouse: up to $250,000 in $5,000 increments
(Guaranteed Issue $30K)
•Child(ren): up to $10,000 in $2,000 increments
PERSONALIZED BENEFITS AFLAC
In the event of an accident or covered critical illness,
these plans pay cash benefits directly to you, providing
you the flexibility to help pay bills related to treatment
or help with everyday living expenses.
Accident Plan
•Employee Only
•Employee + Spouse
•Employee+ Children
•Employee + Family
Critical Illness Plan
•Employee: $10K, $20K, or $30K
•Spouse: $10K, $20K, or $30K
*Rates based on age and tobacco vs. non-tobacco status
Features:
•Coverage is available for you, your spouse, and
dependent children
•Fast claims payment. Most claims are processed in
about 4 business days
•Coverage begins the first of the month, following 30
days from the date of hire
RETIREMENT NATIONWIDE
401(a) Defined Contribution Plan
•Mandatory participation, eligible on the date of hire
•0% employee contribution, 10% City contribution
•Up to 3% match (from contributing in the 457 plan)
457 Deferred Compensation Plan
•Voluntary participation, eligible on the date of hire
•City contribution matches up to 3% in 401(a) plan
OTHER BENEFITS
•Award-Winning Wellness Program
•Employee Assistance Programs
•Back-up Child and Adult Care and Referral Services
12
VACATION
Vacation time is accrued bi-weekly each pay period in
accordance with the schedule below:
0-12 years 6.15 hours or 20 days per year
13-14 years 6.46 hours or 21 days per year
15-16 years 6.77 hours or 22 days per year
17-20 years 7.38 hours or 24 days per year
20+ years 7.69 hours or 25 days per year
*Accrual for part-time employees is pro-rated based
on FTE.
In addition to the vacation schedule above, Unclassified
Management employees receive a lump sum of 40
hours of vacation time at the beginning of each Leave
Benefit Year. For new employees, this lump sum is
prorated based on the hire date.
Employees in these positions are subject to the
maximum carryover of 480 hours. All vacation time in
excess of this amount is forfeited after the end of the
Leave Benefit year unless an extension is authorized by
the City Manager.
HOLIDAYS
11 designated holidays, a total of 88 hours per year
(prorated for part-time employees)
Designated Holidays
•New Year’s Day
•Martin Luther King Day
•President’s Day
•Memorial Day
•Independence Day
•Juneteenth
•Labor Day
•Veterans’ Day
•Thanksgiving Day
•Day after Thanksgiving Day
•Christmas Day
All designated holiday time not used will be forfeited at
the end of the Leave Benefit Year.
SICK LEAVE
Full-time eligible employees receive 120 hours of sick
leave at the beginning of each year for use in that Leave
Benefit Year. This amount is prorated for part-time
employees and is prorated for those employees starting
employment after January 1 of the current Leave
Benefit Year.
Unused sick leave will not be carried over to the
following Leave Benefit Year.
SHORT TERM DISABILITY
RELIANCE STANDARD
Employer-paid Short Term Disability (STD) provides
eligible employees with up to 90 days of leave time (per
illness/injury) for certain short-term disabilities arising
from non-occupational illnesses or injuries.
LONG TERM DISABILITY RELIANCE STANDARD
Employer-paid Long Term Disability (LTD) provides
eligible employees with 66.67% of their monthly base
salary (maximum $7,500 a month) for a period of time
determined by their age and disability. Employees must
complete a 90 calendar day elimination period per
incident and have a 20% loss of income before
LTD pay begins.
The City of Fort Collins, Colorado
Invites Qualified Candidates to Apply for
CITY MANAGER
The Opportunity
The City of Fort Collins faces a pivotal moment in our community as we
transform from a big town to a small city. We are looking for a
compassionate servant leader with a collaborative management style
who can build on our strengths and lean into our challenges with a
commitment to listen to all voices as we work on mutual goals to
strengthen the region and our city.
Option 2
2
Milken Institute, April 2021
Tier 1 Best Performing Cities
Platinum Bicycle
Friendly Community
League of American
Bicyclists 2021
The Community
The City of Fort Collins sits nestled against the foothills of the Rocky Mountains
alongside the Cache La Poudre River banks. At 5,000 feet in elevation, residents
enjoy a moderate, four-season climate, with an average of 300 days of sunshine
per year. With 174,800 residents, Fort Collins is Colorado’s fourth-largest city
and spans 57 square miles. With the 20-year growth projection, the City of Fort
Collins is expected to reach 255,000 residents.
The first people who hunted in this region arrived approximately 11,000 years
ago, and Northern Colorado remains an integral part of the traditional and
ancestral homelands of the Arapaho, Cheyenne, and Ute Nations. European-
American trappers and traders arrived by the early 1800s but rarely established
permanent settlements. Gold and silver discoveries in the Colorado mountains
in the mid- 1800s and the prospect of land for farming and ranching attracted
people from eastern cities and across the globe to the Colorado Territory,
including what would become the town of Fort Collins; an agricultural colony
that emerged from its founding days as a military camp. The expansion brought
new residents whose descendants still live here today,
Since 1879, Fort Collins has been the home of the state’s land grant institution,
Colorado State University, which currently enrolls 34,000 students. Along with
the University, the city’s major high-tech and manufacturing companies and
breweries attract new residents from all over the country and world. The city is
known for its unique innovative, entrepreneurial, and collaborative spirit that
brings together the public and private sectors and the Colorado State
University community. Fort Collins is the home of the Colorado State University
Energy Institute, whose mission is to deliver real-world energy and climate
solutions that address society’s most pressing global challenges, and
Innosphere Ventures, a science and technology incubator that accelerates the
business success of startups and emerging growth companies.
Our adaptability, openness to failure, risk-taking, the
overarching character of collaboration and strong ties
between leaders from the university, city government,
and local businesses, and a sense of community led
to Fort Collins being chosen by Smithsonian Institute
curators as one of the country’s most innovative places
for the exhibit, “Places of Invention.” People can make a
difference here and have contributed to the city’s
reputation for breakthrough inventions in clean energy
and socially responsible innovation.
We have exceptional medical systems, strong public
and private K-12 schools, and many recreational
offerings for families. We like to think every age can
live, work, and play in our community, and with 300
hundred of annual sunshine, mild temperatures, and
record snowfalls, it is always a good time to come to
Colorado.
The community’s overall social diversity continues
to grow, and there are abundant outdoor recreation
opportunities available to the many residents who
enjoy healthy lifestyles. The nearby Horsetooth
Reservoir
is a key attraction, as is the Cache La Poudre-North Park
Scenic Byway. Thanks to voter support of sales tax
ballot measures, the City conserves valued lands and
provides recreation and educational access to our
community treasures.
There are 50 natural areas and over 100 miles of
trail encompassing more than 36,000 acres. Fort
Collins has a strong appreciation for arts, culture, and
entertainment and is known as the cultural hub of
northern Colorado. There are many great performance
theaters, museums, and art galleries to visit. The
Downtown district provides many venues for live music,
shopping, dining, and nightlife. Fort Collins is widely
considered the Craft Beer Capital of Colorado. Various
national organizations and magazines recognize Fort
Collins as one of the best places to live in the nation.
People come and want to build their lives here.
4
The Organization
The City of Fort Collins is a home rule city with a Council-Manager form of government. The City Council is
comprised of six District Councilmembers who are elected for four-year terms and a Mayor who is elected at-large
for a two-year term. All elected officials are nonpartisan. The City Council appoints the City Manager, City Attorney,
and the Chief Judge. The City Manager has overall responsibility for all other City employees. The City of Fort Collins
directly provides a full slate of municipal services, including operating its own electric, water, wastewater, and
stormwater utilities. The City of Fort Collins, at the direction of the City Council and voters, is moving forward with
building and implementing high-speed next-generation broadband to the entire community with expected
completion in 2022. Fire protection is provided by the Poudre Fire Authority (PFA). The City of Fort Collins operates
with a biennial budget and provides funding for municipal operations, including approximately 2,500 employees.
The City of Fort Collins aspires to provide outstanding services to the community while cultivating a strong
organizational culture for its employees. To achieve the vision, both internal and external services are data-informed
and implemented according to organizational values.
The City develops resiliency and sustainability through organization-wide systems and processes that ensure
consistent employee work practices and alignment across service areas. The City places a high value on public input
and strives to include community members as fellow problem solvers whenever possible. Residents can expect to
receive exceptional service, engage with decision-makers, provide input regarding the allocation of City resources,
and access government information in a timely and transparent manner.
The City of Fort Collins recognizes and honors the legacy inherited from the decisions, relationships, and thoughtful
planning of those who cared deeply about our community. We also realize that we are a more robust, better
community when we welcome everyone to participate in shaping our future. The 2019 City Plan, which serves as our
long-range vision and development framework, shapes decision-making and funding priorities to implement the
future the community desires. Whether it is building a more inclusive and equitable community, supporting
entrepreneurship and innovation, addressing and mitigating the impacts of climate change, or creating additional
transportation and housing options, we are committed to partnering to make Fort Collins an even better place
for future generations. We know this means keeping our current infrastructure updated and maintained while
thinking ahead.
The City is a dynamic and continually evolving organization. However, the vision for the City, its mission, and core
values remain a constant that helps all employees focus on the primary goal: service to our community members.
This commitment is one that the nearly 2,500 City employees take seriously. From snowplow drivers and emergency
dispatchers, utility crews and recreation officials, IT specialists, and vehicle mechanics, the City workforce provides
high-quality municipal services around the clock across a wide variety of talents.
5
• 2021 Municipal Equality Index 100
• 2021 What Works Certified City:
Bloomberg Philanthropies
• No. 6, Safest Cities for Cyclists: Your Local Security -
May 2021
• No. 8, Colorado City Ranked Among ‘Most Relaxed’ in
Country: Out There Colorado - April 2021
• No. 4, 25 Best Cities in the US to Own an Electric Car:
24/7 Wall St - April 2021
• No. 5, 2021 Top 10 Remote-Ready Cities in the US:
Livability - January 2021
• Clean Air Champion: RAQC - December 2020
• No. 8, Most Fitness Friendly Places for 2021: Smart
Asset - December 2020
• No. 1, The Best Places to Live in America in 2020:
Market Watch - October 2020
• No. 1, 2020 Top 100 Places to Live: Livability.com -
October 2020
• No. 21, Top 30 Creative Small Cities: CVSuite -
May 2020
• No. 18, 20 Safest Cities in Colorado: SafeWise -
April 2020
Fort Collins is a community with a strong sense of place. It has gained
accolades as one of the best places for job seekers in Colorado, one of the best
towns in America, and among the healthiest, most livable, and bicycle-friendly.
Among the awards Fort Collins has won over the past two years are:
We believe these awards are possible due to our employees, volunteers, community members, partnerships in the city
and region, and the strong leadership from City Council.
Councilmembers and City leaders are engaged nationally and internationally on issues facing our community. The
City of Fort Collins is involved in Bloomberg Philanthropies and has received funding and consulting for several key
projects. This philanthropic organization focuses its resources on five areas: the environment, public health, the arts,
government innovation, and education. Mayor Jeni Arndt is one of the thirty-eight mayors from North America, Latin
America, Europe, and Africa selected for the Bloomberg Harvard City Leadership Initiative 2021-2022 program. The
intention is to equip mayors with the leadership and management tools to tackle complex challenges in their cities
and improve the quality of life of their residents.
Fort Collins was also selected as one of 30 U.S. cities participating in the What Works Cities City Budgeting for Equity
and Recovery program. This new effort will help cities confront budget crises while strengthening their commitment
to equity in the wake of COVID-19. The program will help cities develop and implement plans to drive financial
recovery and ensure that their budget crises do not disproportionately harm low-income residents and communities
of color. From the City’s 2021 application, we acknowledged, “The City of Fort Collins has a strong desire to invest in
long-term, meaningful equity advancement, and yet in the absence of the requisite models, knowledge, and abilities,
this is unchartered territory for our organization.”
The German Marshall Fund of the United States is a nonpartisan American public policy think tank and grant-making
institution dedicated to promoting cooperation and understanding between North America and Europe. Fort
Collins was chosen as one of twelve cities to participate in “Cities Fortifying Democracy,” a first-of-its-kind cohort of
American and European cities that will come together in teams to collaborate on what cities are and can be doing to
strengthen their resilience and the foundation of democracy from the ground up. Over the next 12 months, the cohort
— comprised of twelve five-person city teams —will zero in on the democratic vulnerabilities and innovations in four
key areas where local stakeholders can make a difference: governing, voting and elections, public safety and justice,
and local journalism.
6
The Opportunity
Fort Collins faces a pivotal moment in our community
as we transform from a big town to a small city. We are
looking for a leader who can build on our strengths and
lean into our challenges with a commitment to listen to
all voices as we work on mutual goals to strengthen the
region and our city. We have much to be proud of while
also recognizing our vulnerabilities and opportunities.
We know this means having healthy dialogues to
understand first before being understood and to find
common ground. We think of ourselves as problem
solvers and not just advocating for a point of view or an
agenda. We believe we only rise together, which requires
a regional orientation and a willingness to partner and
collaborate for shared success.
Reporting to the City Council, the City Manager provides
strategic and forward-looking leadership to the seven
outcome areas to ensure appropriate and effective
resource allocation supporting the community’s
priorities in Culture and Recreation, Economic Health,
Environmental Health, High Performing Government,
Neighborhood Livability, and Social Health, Safe
Community, and Transportation and Mobility.
The City uses the triple bottom line to bring the global
concept of sustainability to action at the local level.
We evaluate programs on their social, economic, and
environmental impacts resulting in an optimal mix of
resource efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and employee
and community well-being in daily City operations.
The City Manager leads and supports a large and varied
staff of passionate and talented employees with a
unified vision, collaborative style, and demonstrated
commitment to others. It will be vital that they
understand and take care of the organization with the
right resources and invest in the current infrastructure to
respond well to the community.
Fort Collins City Council - Susan Gutowsky, Julie Pignataro, Emily Francis,
Jeni Arndt (Mayor), Tricia Canonico, Shirley Peel, Kelly Ohlson
7
First Year Overview
The successful candidate will use the first year to
listen deeply and authentically and connect with the
community and develop critical partnerships for regional
collaboration and across sectors so that as the city
evolves, there is a solid foundation to co-create the
future. Additionally, they will continue leading the work
to address some of our longer-term challenges:
•Build positive relationships with the City Council,
Executive Leadership Team, and broader City
staff. Collectively work to understand our current
organization, operations, and culture to ensure
finances, talent, technology, and resources
are aligned to prioritize our time, energy, and
investments that lead to equitable outcomes and
support the greatest impact on the community.
•Focus on the talent of the City by providing clarity
and discernment of priorities, attracting top talent
to leadership positions and other openings in the
City. Understand and respond to organizational
fatigue from the continual challenges of the
pandemic, 2020 wildfires, and resignations by
investing in employees.
•Ensure our COVID-19 response and economic
recovery strategy centers on the needs of those
most affected by the pandemic. Identify long-term
funding that provides essential and sustainable
services and enables the community resiliency to
adapt and thrive.
•Engage in meaningful dialogues regarding urban
growth and development in our community.
•Facilitate continued conversations regarding
housing affordability and our unhoused population.
Collaborate to identify creative solutions, remain
equitable in our planning, and work towards the
vision that everyone has healthy, stable housing
they can afford.
•Work to meet the city’s climate action plan and take
bold, innovative, and collaborative actions to create
systemic change that fully addresses our climate
change initiatives and ensures our quality of life.
•Recognize and respond to those in our community
who have been historically marginalized and utilize
an equitable process to respond to the needs of our
entire community.
•Appreciate the City’ preservation ethic and
pursue the acquisition of additional open space
as overwhelmingly approved by voters in a
local election.
•Invest in the Citywide business digital
transformation of our business models,
processes, organization, and technologies
resulting in fundamental changes to how the
City operates and delivers value to residents,
businesses, and employees.
Newly installed The Hand that Feeds sculpture at Sugar Beet Park.
8
The Successful Candidate
The successful candidate is deeply committed to public
service and understands the local government’s unique
role in creating and sustaining a healthy, vibrant, and
resilient community where all members feel a sense
of belonging. They can keep the whole system in
perspective and possess system leadership, both a
mindset and a set of skills that includes seeing the system
by engaging diverse stakeholders and perspectives that
may challenge their views. They understand today’s
leadership is about learning and observing, balancing
tensions and paradoxes, and creating conditions and
adaptive spaces that enable others to develop, lead, and
collectively work towards shared goals that benefit the
entire system sustainably.
The candidate recognizes the importance of relationships
and partnerships at all levels and navigates political
and multi-sector relationships. They encourage broad
engagement, collaborate, and empower others to
significantly impact initiatives and ensure inclusive and
equitable experiences. The successful candidate values
diversity of thought, fosters mutual respect at all levels,
and effortlessly balances internal needs with external
initiatives. The candidate is considered an excellent
listener and communicator and is well known for sharing
complex information and being open, honest, and
transparent in all interactions.
The world continues to experience the effect of the
pandemic, and the systemic issues of climate change,
housing, food insecurity, social unrest, and the economic
and digital divide are felt in our community. So much
is changing exponentially, and simultaneously, the
candidate possesses the strong leadership skills
necessary for managing a large, complex environment.
They are considered bold, courageous, and innovative,
and willing to stay in the messy middle.
The candidate is known for co-creating and sustaining
an organizational culture built on trust and mutual
respect. They effectively leverage the organization’s
talents to meet the complexity, pace, and intensity of
providing exceptional services to our community. They
can lead by demonstrating continuity and transformation
simultaneously and navigating change with empathy,
understanding it is both an art and a science.
The candidate is self-aware, possesses a high degree
of emotional intelligence, and balances humility with
confidence. They are curious, lifelong learners, and willing
to acknowledge what they do not know. They bring a
blend of compassion and wisdom and the ability to drive
for results while attending to others in the process. They
are a horizontal player and collaborate well with others
where power is shared, and everyone’s contribution
matters toward collective success.
Total Compensation
The City of Fort Collins offers a competitive
comprehensive benefits package, including a
competitive market salary commensurate with
education and experience. Annual salary range is
$xx,xxx - $xxx,xxx and the anticipated annual hiring
salary range is $xxx,xxxx - $xxx,xxx. Salaries are paid
biweekly. Benefits include medical, dental, vision,
life, and short- and long-term disability insurance.
Additionally, the City of Fort Collins offers additional
benefits, including 401(a) and a 457 deferred
compensation plan with an employer contribution,
optional Health Savings Account, Flexible Spending
Accounts, and relocation assistance for the successful
out-of-area finalist. An employment contract for the
successful candidate will be negotiated with the
City Council.
Residency
Before the appointment, the City Manager need not be
a resident of the city; however, during their tenure in
office, the City Manager shall reside within the city.
One of three street art installations on Romero, Maple, and Hickory streets.
9
Education and Experience
Studies have shown that women and people of color
are less likely to apply for jobs unless they believe they
can perform every job description task. We are most
interested in finding the best candidate for the job,
and that candidate may come from a less traditional
background. The City may consider an equivalent
combination of knowledge, skills, education, and
experience to meet minimum qualifications.
Strong leadership experience and the ability to work
closely with the City Council and lead the organization
well are essential. A Bachelor’s degree in a related
field or an equivalent combination of education and
experience that enables success as the City Manager is
critical, and an advanced degree is preferred.
A minimum of seven years of recent, senior-level
executive management experience and responsibilities
in a large, complex organization. Knowledge
and experience related to municipal government
management and/or leading in a similar-sized agency
are desired. To view the full job description please click,
City Manager.
How To Apply
Applications accepted no later than XX 2021. Please
apply online at Strategic Government Resources.
For More Information, Please Contact:
Mark McDaniel
Senior Vice President, SGR
MarkMcDaniel@GovernmentResource.com
817-773-6558
The City of Fort Collins is an Equal Opportunity Employer
and values diversity at all levels of its workforce.
Applicants selected as finalists for this position will be
subject to a criminal history/credit/driver’s license check
prior to the interview. Under the Colorado Open Records
Act, information from your application or resume may be
subject to public disclosure.
APPLY ONLINE
Auxiliary aids and services are available for persons with disabilities.21-23744
10
Benefits Summary
City Manager
MEDICAL INSURANCE UMR (A UNITED HEALTHCARE
COMPANY)
PPO Tier 1/Tier 2: SelectColorado/Select Networks
•Effective: First day of the month following hire date
•Deductible (Tier 1): $350 Individual / $700 Family
•Out of Pocket Max (Tier 1): $5,000 Individual /
$10,000 Family
•Copay (Tier 1): $0 Primary Care / $40 Specialty
•Coinsurance (Tier 1): 80% Insurance / 20% You
High Deductible Health Plan (HDHP) with Health
Savings Account (HSA)
•Employer contribution HSA
•Effective: First day of the month following hire date
•Deductible (In-Network): $3,000 Individual /
$6,000 Family
•Out of Pocket Max: $4,000 Individual / $8,000
Family (In-Network)
•Coinsurance: 90% Insurance / 10% You (In-Network)
HEALTH CLINIC CITYCARE
CityCare, managed by Marathon Health, is our onsite
healthcare clinic providing services to employees and
family members covered under the City’s health plan.
Staffed with a Physician Assistant and health coach,
they treat a variety of common illnesses and injuries.
A full range of prevention, health coaching, and
assessments are provided in addition to sick care. There
is no cost to use CityCare under the PPO Plan. For the
HDHP, prevention is free, non-prevention $45.
LIFESTYLE MANAGEMENT
As part of the City’s commitment to offering benefit
coverage, which helps prevent injuries and illness,
the following preventative services are available to
employees and family members covered under the
City’s health plan;
Preventative Services Covered:
•Registered Dieticians
•Therapeutic Massage Therapy
•Acupuncture
•Biofeedback
These services are only a $20 copay, with a $500
maximum allowable benefit per service, per member,
per year.
Under HDHP:
•No copay
•Pay total amount which applies towards deductible
and out-of-pocket
DENTAL INSURANCE DELTA DENTAL
Effective: First day of the month following hire date
Prevention First: Diagnostic and preventative do not
count against the annual maximum
•Deductible: $50 Individual / $100 Family
•Max Benefit: $2,000 annually
•Basic Dental: Plan pays 80%, after deductible
(In-Network)
•Major Dental: Plan pays 50%, after deductible
(In-Network)
•Orthodontia: Plan pays 50%, after deductible
(In-Network), Lifetime Max $2,000
VISION INSURANCE VSP (Vision Service Plan)
•Effective: First day of the month following hire date
•Examination: Every 12 months, $15 Copay
•Lenses or Contacts: Every 12 months, Contact
allowance of up to $185
•Frames: Every 24 months, Frame allowance $185–$205
11
FLEXIBLE SPENDING ACCOUNTS (FSA) ALERUS
FSA accounts allow you to set aside pre-tax funds to
pay for eligible health and/or dependent care expenses
before your federal and Social Security taxes are
calculated.
•Health Care: employees may contribute up to
$2,750 per calendar year
•Dependent Care: employees may contribute up to
$5,000 per calendar year
•Carryover Provision: allows up to $550 unused
medical FSA contributions into the following year
BASIC LIFE INSURANCE AND AD&D
RELIANCE STANDARD
1x Annual Salary, up to $250,000 (employer-paid)
LIFE INSURANCE
RELIANCE STANDARD (SUPPLEMENTAL)
•Employee: up to $1,000,000 in $10,000 increments
(Guaranteed Issue $300K)
•Spouse: up to $250,000 in $5,000 increments
(Guaranteed Issue $30K)
•Child(ren): up to $10,000 in $2,000 increments
PERSONALIZED BENEFITS AFLAC
In the event of an accident or covered critical illness,
these plans pay cash benefits directly to you, providing
you the flexibility to help pay bills related to treatment
or help with everyday living expenses.
Accident Plan
•Employee Only
•Employee + Spouse
•Employee+ Children
•Employee + Family
Critical Illness Plan
•Employee: $10K, $20K, or $30K
•Spouse: $10K, $20K, or $30K
*Rates based on age and tobacco vs. non-tobacco status
Features:
•Coverage is available for you, your spouse, and
dependent children
•Fast claims payment. Most claims are processed in
about 4 business days
•Coverage begins the first of the month, following 30
days from the date of hire
RETIREMENT NATIONWIDE
401(a) Defined Contribution Plan
•Mandatory participation, eligible on the date of hire
•0% employee contribution, 10% City contribution
•Up to 3% match (from contributing in the 457 plan)
457 Deferred Compensation Plan
•Voluntary participation, eligible on the date of hire
•City contribution matches up to 3% in 401(a) plan
OTHER BENEFITS
•Award-Winning Wellness Program
•Employee Assistance Programs
•Back-up Child and Adult Care and Referral Services
12
VACATION
Vacation time is accrued bi-weekly each pay period in
accordance with the schedule below:
0-12 years 6.15 hours or 20 days per year
13-14 years 6.46 hours or 21 days per year
15-16 years 6.77 hours or 22 days per year
17-20 years 7.38 hours or 24 days per year
20+ years 7.69 hours or 25 days per year
*Accrual for part-time employees is pro-rated based
on FTE.
In addition to the vacation schedule above, Unclassified
Management employees receive a lump sum of 40
hours of vacation time at the beginning of each Leave
Benefit Year. For new employees, this lump sum is
prorated based on the hire date.
Employees in these positions are subject to the
maximum carryover of 480 hours. All vacation time in
excess of this amount is forfeited after the end of the
Leave Benefit year unless an extension is authorized by
the City Manager.
HOLIDAYS
11 designated holidays, a total of 88 hours per year
(prorated for part-time employees)
Designated Holidays
•New Year’s Day
•Martin Luther King Day
•President’s Day
•Memorial Day
•Independence Day
•Juneteenth
•Labor Day
•Veterans’ Day
•Thanksgiving Day
•Day after Thanksgiving Day
•Christmas Day
All designated holiday time not used will be forfeited at
the end of the Leave Benefit Year.
SICK LEAVE
Full-time eligible employees receive 120 hours of sick
leave at the beginning of each year for use in that Leave
Benefit Year. This amount is prorated for part-time
employees and is prorated for those employees starting
employment after January 1 of the current Leave
Benefit Year.
Unused sick leave will not be carried over to the
following Leave Benefit Year.
SHORT TERM DISABILITY
RELIANCE STANDARD
Employer-paid Short Term Disability (STD) provides
eligible employees with up to 90 days of leave time (per
illness/injury) for certain short-term disabilities arising
from non-occupational illnesses or injuries.
LONG TERM DISABILITY RELIANCE STANDARD
Employer-paid Long Term Disability (LTD) provides
eligible employees with 66.67% of their monthly base
salary (maximum $7,500 a month) for a period of time
determined by their age and disability. Employees must
complete a 90 calendar day elimination period per
incident and have a 20% loss of income before
LTD pay begins.