Norwalk : Change in Manager’s Post

The position of city administrator would be made into a city manager under a Norwalk ordinance that also strengthens the post’s personnel powers. The most significant provision of the job description change--granted preliminary council approval this week--gives the manager authority to appoint city department heads without council review.

The manager’s position would be vested with power to hire, fire and discipline all city employees except the city attorney and city clerk, City Atty. Kenneth Brown said. Under the current city administrator arrangement, the council has veto power over the appointment of department heads.

“We felt that what we needed is someone who will be able to take charge . . . where he is directly responsible and takes care of the problem,” Councilman Luigi Vernola said, adding that the changes have been under discussion for months. “It’s a stronger position for the city, because we are expanding and growing.”