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Politics & Government

Consultant Hired to Strengthen Management Team

City Manager Dave Carmany's request to hire a consultant is unanimously approved by City Council. The consultant will work with the city's management team, which includes a new city manager, police chief, fire chief and city attorney within the past year.

During his 100-day evaluation, City Manager Dave Carmany requested the assistance of a management transition consultant. Tuesday night, City Council voted unanimously to grant the city's request to hire Joseph Cutcliffe of the Cutcliffe Consulting Group for an estimated $34,000.

Carmany reports to City Council and Mayor Nick Tell said that at his 100-day evaluation great satisfaction was expressed on both sides. Carmany asked for the consultant because Manhattan Beach has had a large amount of change in key positions with the police chief, fire chief and city attorney joining the city within the past year. Carmany officially started his position in January 2011.

City Attorney Diaz researched for possible candidates and selected Cutliffe, who, as manager of his own consulting group, specializes in performance improvement, leadership and team building. He has worked with the Hay Group, with Roher, Hibler and Replogle as a psychologist, and as director of organization development for Mattel, Inc.  

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Mayor Tell and Council member David Lesser Tuesday night expressed doubt about the effectiveness of consultants, but decided to go with Carmany’s request, and the city attorney’s choice. Said Lesser, “I want our city manager to be successful, and for the city to provide the tools necessary.”

Cutcliffe work to strengthen the leadership team is expected to take three to six months. Carmany believes this work will help the city reach the goals and objectives that will arise from the city’s Strategic Planning meeting on Friday, Jan. 21 at 8:30 a.m. in the Police/Fire Conference Room in 400/420 15th Street.

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Audience members commented on the cost, the consultant position not being put out to bid, and whether or not consultants have any value.

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