The Newly Elected Official Orientation Checklist is designed to help cities deliver a clear, consistent onboarding experience for new mayors and councilmembers. It outlines the key information, materials, and steps cities can prepare to help newly elected officials understand how the city operates and serve effectively from the start.
The checklist covers the following areas:
- Human Resources: New hire paperwork, benefits, personnel policies, and organizational structure.
- City Policies and Procedures: City charter, code of ordinances, travel and training policies, procurement, and utility policies.
- Key City Facts: Snapshot information such as number of employees, services provided, utilities, and city-owned property.
- Finance: Budgets, financial reports, capital projects, and rate and fee schedules.
- Administrative Updates: Boards and committees, zoning maps, website updates, and agency notifications.
- Site Visits: Department tours and introductions to city operations.
- Parliamentary Procedures: Council meeting protocols, ethics, roles, and oath of office information.
- Training and Resources: State-mandated training, GMA programs, publications, events, and support services.
Together, these elements provide a practical roadmap for welcoming newly elected officials and creating a smooth, informed transition into office.
Resource
Download the checklist (PDF)