Mayor Wants More Feedback and Help on GM Selection

Dear Friend of L.A.s Companion Animals:

The City of Los Angeles soon will be interviewing candidates for the position of General Manager of the Department of Animal Services.  I take this process very seriously and have worked to involve interested members of the public in the process since its inception last fall.

Now, I would like to ask you to suggest questions you think the candidates should be asked during the semi-final and final interviews that will take place in the coming weeks.  Your suggested questions will be considered for use in the final rounds of interviews.

There are several categories of inquiry the interviews will cover:

1.  Philosophy:  Regarding organizational management as well as animal issues.

2.  Administrative Operations:  Approaches to dealing with the departments administrative functions and challenges, including human resources, budgeting, revenue generation, accounting, staff management, the volunteer program, public relations, community relations and education, legislative activities, etc.

3.  Shelter and Field Operations:  Approaches to dealing with what happens in the Animal Care Centers, including animal care, law enforcement, adoption programs, population management, medical care, etc.

4.  Problem Solving/Meeting Challenges:  Could be about any aspect of running the department, but should focus on presenting a plausible problem or issue and asking how it can best be resolved.

When you submit your questions, please include the number of the category your question covers.  There is no limit on the number of questions you can submit or how many times you can submit questions.  I ask you to be thoughtful, creative and respectful in how you approach this undertaking.
Questions should be submitted by e-mail 
per.execsearch@lacity.org 

Please type LAAS GM Questions in the subject line and submit your questions by 5 p.m., Monday, March 1, 2010.
Very Truly Yours,

Antonio R. Villaraigosa
Mayor