On Tuesday, the Orem City Council held a discussion in its work session on adding a new department to the city to oversee several existing ones.

A new Management Services Department has been introduced that would combine Human Resources, Risk Management, Information Technology, Communications and the City Recorders office.

Keri Rugg, Human Resource director, would take over the new department. According to city attorney Steven Earl the new department’s formation was prompted by the departure of Steven Downs, the former deputy city manager. The new department, along with other changes, is focused on shifting and incorporating new efficiencies.

This change would require an official amending of city code 2-6-1, adding a new department to the city government.

As per the code, which is under city administration, it indicates the administration of the City “shall be conducted by and through the City Manager’s Office and the following operating departments:

“1. City Manager’s Department. The City Manager’s Department provides oversight to all of the operating departments of the City and implements City Council policies.

“2. Finance Department. The Finance Department provides the following functions for the City: Finance, Budgeting, Treasury, Customer Service/311, Purchasing, Payroll and Accounting. The department also has a liaison relationship with the Justice Court.

“3. Development Services Department. The Development Services Department works with contractors, other City Departments, State agencies and the public to design, build and maintain City infrastructure and buildings, oversees business licensing, and reviews/monitors all private development and construction in the City.

“4. Fire Department. The Fire Department saves lives and protects property and the environment through fire suppression, paramedic emergency medical services, and other special response emergency services.

“5. Legal Services Department. The Legal Services Department provides legal counsel and support to the City Council and City departments; it also prosecutes misdemeanor crimes committed in Orem.

“6. Orem Public Library. The Orem Public Library provides print and non-print media items, reference and advisory service, cultural programs, and fine art and touring exhibits.

“7. Police Department. The Police Department enforces the law, preserves the peace, maintains order, resolves problems, and provides a safe and secure environment for all citizens and visitors to the City of Orem.

“8. Public Works Department. The Public Works Department operates and maintains streets, sidewalks, parks, cemetery, street signs, street striping, traffic signals, fiber optics, fleet services, and water, storm water, waste water and street lighting utilities.

“9. Recreation Department. The Recreation Department offers fitness, recreation, leisure, learning, and sports opportunities for all ages, across a wide spectrum of outdoor and indoor venues and interests.”

The amendment will add the 10th department to the city. The police and fire departments have recently joined the city’s dispatch center with Provo. The workers are now considered Provo employees.

The code states that, “Each department shall be administered by a director, who shall be the head of that department. Department directors are to be appointed by the City Manager.”

Each department director shall have the authority, under the general supervision of the city manager, to take any action necessary to accomplish the duties and responsibilities of the director’s office, as well as those duties and responsibilities imposed by law or the city manager.

Brenn Bybee, acting city manager indicated that “everyone seems positive” after talking with city employees.

“Over time we will find new efficiencies that improves the structure and peoples capacity,” he said.

Bybee expects more duties, bringing more pay and opportunities to grow while allowing personnel to showcase their talents and abilities.

The council is expected to formalize the Management Services Department at the next city council meeting when the department amendment will be formally adopted.

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