Saturday, May 5, 2012

Park Ridge city manager fired during special city council meeting

Jim Hock

The Park Ridge City Council unanimously agreed Friday night to fire City Manager Jim Hock, saying they needed a change in leadership because Hock fell short of their expectations.

Hock, who began in July 2008, sat mostly stone-faced during the 1 hour, 15 minute meeting, some of which was held in closed session.

After the 6-0 vote, Hock said he was disappointed because he felt he had achieved goals laid out by the aldermen and mayor as part of his performance plan.

"I believe I met all of their performance requirements," Hock said. "I made a commitment to the city and tried to live up to that commitment."

Several residents took to the podium during the beginning of the meeting and called for Hock's termination.

They pointed to annual increases in local property taxes and the what they called a lack of professionalism in various city departments.

"The building department is nothing but shambles," said Chris Kueppers, a Park Ridge resident. "It's time the city cuts their losses and move on."

Hock will receive about 9 months pay in severance, which amounts to about $121,000 to $123,000, said Park Ridge Mayor David Schmidt.

Deputy City Manager Juliana Maller will fill the position until a permanent replacement can be found.

Ald. Tom Bernick was absent during the meeting.

No comments:

Post a Comment