Is he or isn't he?

Snellville's Interim (finally achieving the title) City Manager departed last week leaving the position unfilled pending completion of the search currently underway with a national firm. The Mayor, as the City's Chief Executive, will fulfill any requirements until the Council confirms a permanent City Manager. Some oppose the Mayor honoring his commitment to the City by exercising the duties and responsibilities charged him.

In the words of Tertullian, "Thus [the opposition] has seized upon the opportunity provided by certain words, in accord with the usual practice of heretics, of twisting the simplest things." Against Hermogenes, AD 206

The opposition is "researching" whether the Mayor may hold two positions; serve in two capacities, and on, and on. So, is he or isn't he? Jerry, I mean . . .

Is he or isn't he the Mayor? Why yes, of course, we all recognize he is the Mayor and the City Code reads, "The mayor shall be the chief executive officer of the city government, shall enforce the laws of the city and shall require the faithful performance of all administrative duties." Pt II Code, Ch. 2 Admin, Art. III Officers and Employees, Div 2 Mayor, Sect. 2-171 Gen. Authority

Is he or isn't he the City Manager? No, he is not. The Mayor is not the acting, interim or any other kind of City Manager. He is the Mayor. He is not holding two positions; he is doing what he is required to do. The City Manager's duties as provided in the City Code are, "Except as otherwise provided by general or local state law, he shall be the chief administrative officer of the city, and shall exercise executive supervision over all city employees and departments." Pt II Code, Ch. 2 Admin, Art. III Officers and Employees, Div 2.5 City Manager, Sect. 2-191 Office created, appointment

The language of the City Code is clear. Shall is mandatory. The Mayor shall require the faithful performance of all administrative duties. In as much as the City Manager shall be the chief administrative officer, it is clear the position of City Manager has always been subordinate to that of the position of Mayor.

Is he or isn't he holding two offices? He is not. He is holding the office of Mayor and no other.

Is he or isn't he appointed to two offices? He is not. No one has appointed him to any office.

Is he or isn't he compensated for two offices? He is not. He continues to receive the handsome sum of $6,000 per year as Mayor. He receives nothing more as he is serving only as Mayor.

Over 100 capable, dedicated employees, led by an outstanding team of Department Directors, serve our City daily. While the political winds may be rough, left to perform their jobs without interference, it's smooth sailing with Snellville's staff.