Review brings

praise for Gramentz

By RON LARSEN

Journal Staff Writer

NEW ULM -- CityManager Brian Gramentz had his six-month performance evaluation Wednesday, and in the words of the City Council's employment consultant, it could best be described as a "love-in."

"I can't make anything up," James Brimeyer of The Brimeyer Group, Minneapolis, told Gramentz when he joined the mayor and councilors in their session with Brimeyer. "There are no problem areas."

"I think the council is very well satisfied," Council President Dan Beranek told Gramentz.

In the relationship-with-council category, the councilors and the mayor all had rated Gramentz at the top, leading Beranek to remark, "five kisses and a hug." He was referring to the five X's and the O beside the top rating.

As another indicator of a love-in, there were only a couple suggestions for improvement from the governing body.

Under the fiscal/business- management category, one councilor remarked that Gramentz "Continues to let the Council know his opinion even if it flies in the face of our opinions."

But this statement was off-set by a commendation from another: "Appears to truly understand the needs of our City."

The evaluation also included comments from Gramentz.

As to fiscal/business management, he said, "Excellent staff allows for comprehensive budget/financial administration. I am encouraging staff to take this opportunity to make cost-effective measures to improve productivity and quality of service."

He also was commended by councilors for making a smooth transition in what could have been a difficult situation, following a city manager who had held the job for 33 years.

"He didn't come stomping in heavy boots," Councilor Ruth Ann Webster said. "He carefully weighed the situation before making any changes."

Councilors commended him for being accessible and his calm demeanor.

"He answers questions in a thoughtful way that can be understood and makes sense," said one councilor.

Another category where Gramentz received suggestions for improvement was in long-range planning. Two councilors suggested continuing long-range planning meetings on a regular schedule and setting specific "timeframes" for determining progress.

For his part, Gramentz said he felt it was too early for performance evaluation in long-term planning.

"Focus is underway for growth and strategic planning, and it is a start."

Councilor Ron Fleischmann said the council's make-up is in tune with Gramentz' leadership style.

"We can discuss and debate issues and have differences of opinion, but when it's all over, we leave it all behind," he said.

"I think the council's position is hands-off, and councilors don't have a desire of getting involved," Beranek said.

Councilors also commended Gramentz on being "a good sport, happy, cheerful, and seems to expect the same of co-workers."

And, in the category regarding his relationship with the public, Gramentz showed he doesn't take himself too seriously.

"Even after my arrival, the City has a great image."