Senate Bill 2715, also known as House Bill 2652, amends the charter of the Town of Oakland by making significant changes to the powers and responsibilities of the Board of Mayor and Aldermen. The bill specifically modifies SECTION 7 by deleting the previous language regarding the appointment and removal of the Town Recorder, replacing it with a provision that grants the Board the authority to appoint and remove the Town Recorder at their discretion. Additionally, SECTION 14 is entirely replaced, establishing that the Board will appoint the Town Manager, who will serve at their will, and designating an administrative officer to act as Town Manager during any temporary absence.
The new provisions outline the Town Manager's role as the chief administrative officer, responsible for overseeing all town departments and ensuring compliance with laws and ordinances. The Town Manager is granted the authority to discipline and appoint subordinate officers, prepare budgets, and report on the financial condition of the town. Importantly, the bill stipulates that the Board of Mayor and Aldermen must interact with the town's administrative services solely through the Town Manager, thereby clarifying the chain of command and operational structure within the town's governance. The bill requires a two-thirds vote from the legislative body of the Town of Oakland for it to take effect.