The city manager directs the daily work of the City through department directors and directs the work of staff in the City Manager’s Office. This office helps to organize, coordinate and manage City government work based on City Council direction, state and federal law, and City ordinance.

• City Manager Organizational Structure Chart

Divisions and Functions

The City Manager’s Office provides a wide variety of services that benefit this organization and the residents of Salem.

Support of the Mayor and City Council

We work with the Mayor to help accomplish projects and goals as well as provide administrative and scheduling support for the Mayor and City Council.

Boards and Commissions

Boards and Commissions are groups established by Council to advise them on specific subjects. The City Manager's Office provides staff support to all 18 boards and commissions, and coordinates meetings for the Boards and Commissions Appointments Committee.

City Manager’s Office staff liaisons provide assistance and information specific to the Human Rights Commission, Public Art Commission, Mayor’s International Council, Community Police Review Board and Citizen Budget Committee. Liaisons also support three Council subcommittees:

• The Legislative Committee;
• The Finance Committee; and
• The Boards and Commissions Appointments Committee.

Legislative Matters

Before the start of each legislative session, the City Council adopts policy statements to guide the City's response to and position on legislative topics. The Legislative Committee may also provide recommendations to the City Council on specific measures as they happen during the legislative session.

 

Budget and Finance

The Budget and Finance division manages the daily financial operation of the City, including accounting for and reporting on all financial transactions, purchasing activity, preparing annual five-year forecasts and the City budget, and monitoring the overall financial status of the City.

Citywide Initiatives

The City Manager’s Office oversees projects with a citywide impact, such as the Strategic Planning effort.

Communications

Citywide communication planning and strategy is coordinated through the City Manager’s Office. This office responds to questions from the media and coordinates emergency communications. The City Manager's Office supports a strong presence on social media to strengthen community engagement.

Neighborhood Associations

Salem’s Neighborhood Associations give you a voice in your local neighborhood and the city as a whole. Salem Neighborhood Associations are self directed, though they are recognized by and receive staff support from the City.

Franchise Agreements

Utility companies such as electric, gas, internet and cable television providers, use the public rights-of-way, such as streets and sidewalks, to deliver services to customers in Salem. We manage franchise agreements, which state the terms and conditions to use the rights-of-way and explain fees paid by utility companies for that use.

Human Rights and Relations

The City Manager's Office responds to concerns and complaints of possible violations of human rights. We support the Human Rights and Relations Advisory Commission, which works to bring people together and develop diverse, community-wide networks to discuss and work through issues of discrimination, prejudice and human rights.

We also ensure compliance with federal regulations pertaining to equity, inclusion and access such as Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act and Title VI of the Civil Rights Act, 1964.

Youth Leadership Development

We create positive experiences, relationships and environments for Salem’s youth through a variety of community programs.