Team Carlsbad,
At last week’s meeting, the City Council approved a staff proposal to create a fraud and ethics hotline that would provide employees with an additional tool for reporting suspected cases of fraud, waste or abuse of city resources.
The hotline is not meant to replace existing channels employees have for raising concerns and questions, like talking to your supervisor. It’s simply a best practice for high performing organizations, especially those entrusted with the stewardship of taxpayer resources.
The next step is to develop an implementation timeline and the procedures for how to use the hotline, which would be hosted by a third-party vendor. Once we work out those details, we’ll share more information about how it will work and when it will be ready to launch.
Here is a link to the staff report if you’d like more information.
Extraordinary customer service
The city is working on an ambitious plan that affirms our ongoing commitment to protecting the environment and increases sustainable habits across the city. Throughout this time of introducing new services, I wanted to give kudos to staff in Environmental Management. They are prioritizing time to listen to, communicate with and support our residents throughout these changes. One resident wrote to the city saying,
“I appreciate the nice phone call. You’re very efficient, thoughtful, and polite! You went above and beyond in your help and it is greatly appreciated. We don’t mind paying taxes with great service like this.”
What a comment and great example of public service at its finest. Thank you, Team Carlsbad!
Representing Carlsbad
Assistant Fire Marshal Darcy Davidson was recently named first vice president of the Southern California Fire Prevention Officers, a section of the California Fire Chiefs Association. Darcy will be coordinating all the different committees of the organization in preparation for her term as president in 2023.
Congrats Darcy! Thank you for all you do for the community and for representing Carlsbad at the state level!
National Pet Day
Not only do we have the most talented people working for the City of Carlsbad, we also have the cutest pets! To celebrate National Pet Day today, follow along the city’s Instagram page as our furry friends stage a takeover and highlight city services through their unique perspective about life in Carlsbad. Looking for more reasons to appreciate your pets (or add to your family?) Check out Team Carlsbad pets.
Online training opportunities
HR organized a diverse series of online training opportunities that you’re welcomed to take advantage of. Upcoming sessions include:
Key Steps to Make Difficult Conversations Easier, April 12, 11 a.m.
12 Techniques for Effective Strategic Thinking, April 13, 11 a.m.
Medical Costs and Health Equity in the Time of COVID, April 13, 1 p.m.
Setting S.M.A.R.T. Goals, April 20, 11 a.m.
Simple Tips to Be a Happier YOU: Scientifically Proven to Help You Everyday, April 26 and 28, 11 a.m.
Lessons from César E. Chávez, Delano Manongs and the Farmworkers Movement, April 27, 1 p.m.
Check out all the upcoming webinars with details for registration.
That’s it for this week. Keep up the outstanding work! If you have good news to share, including department fun facts, photos of Team Carlsbad in action and success stories, please send it to communications@carlsbadca.gov.