24-457 : Nowakowski, Wyatt - Resolution to Implement and Support Strategic Vacancy Control Measures

This resolution, initiated by Councilmember Tess Rine and sponsored by Councilmembers Wyatt, Nowakowski, and Rivera, addresses the Buffalo Fiscal Stability Authority's (BFSA) recommendations for managing city budget shortfalls through vacancy control. It acknowledges existing measures like the "Position Control Program" (since 2018) and the use of software systems (Munis, NeoGov) for vacancy tracking and recruitment. The resolution also recognizes the "SPARK" initiative aimed at improving hiring for essential personnel.

Key Actions:

1. Acknowledges existing city efforts since 2018 to track and manage job vacancies for operational flexibility and essential services.
2. Requests that vacancy-related data, accessible via administration software, be shared with the Common Council before annual Budget workshops to aid decision-making.
3. Expresses commitment to maintaining public service quality, minimizing unnecessary vacancies, and upholding fiscal responsibility and workforce development.

The resolution was adopted by the Common Council on March 19, 2024, but has since been repeatedly tabled by the Finance Committee, with the latest entry indicating it was tabled on December 30, 2025, with the next meeting scheduled for January 13, 2026.