Bern's City Council has officially declared the current staffing levels for communication and marketing within the city administration as appropriate. This statement comes in response to an interpellation from FDP City Councilor Thomas Hofstetter, who questioned the necessity of nearly 27 full-time positions dedicated to these roles.
Key Takeaways
- Bern City Council deems 26.85 full-time communication positions appropriate.
- The Direktion for Security, Environment, and Energy holds the most communication staff.
- Councilor Hofstetter suggested a benchmark of one communication role per 10,000 residents.
- The Council emphasizes the legal duty of a democratic state to inform its citizens.
City Administration's Communication Resources
The Bern city administration currently employs a total of 26.85 full-time equivalents (FTEs) for communication and marketing tasks. This figure was provided by the City Council in its detailed response to the inquiry.
The largest allocation of these resources is found within the Direktion for Security, Environment, and Energy. This department utilizes 5.7 full-time positions for its communication efforts.
Communication Staff Breakdown
- Direktion for Security, Environment, and Energy: 5.7 FTEs
- Information Service: 5.5 FTEs
- Direktion for Civil Engineering, Transport, and Urban Greenery: 4.0 FTEs
Following closely is the Information Service, which accounts for 5.5 FTEs. The Direktion for Civil Engineering, Transport, and Urban Greenery also maintains a significant communication presence with 4.0 full-time positions.
The Interpellation and Counterarguments
FDP City Councilor Thomas Hofstetter initiated the discussion by referencing a guideline. He suggested that approximately one communication position per 10,000 inhabitants would be a suitable benchmark. For Bern, with its population, this would equate to around 15 positions.
The City Council, however, holds a different view. They stated that there are no indications of overstaffing. The Council's response underscores the fundamental role of public communication in a democratic society.
"A democratic state has a legal obligation to inform its population. Authorities must identify challenges early and enable public debate, partly by conveying decisions understandably."
This statement highlights the Council's belief that effective communication is not merely optional but a legal and functional necessity for transparent governance.
Why Communication is Essential for Public Service
The City Council emphasized that the work performed by the city administration serves the public. This service requires appropriate communication to ensure citizens are aware of decisions, challenges, and opportunities.
Legal Duty to Inform
Swiss law, similar to many democratic nations, mandates that government bodies inform their citizens. This ensures transparency, allows for public participation, and helps maintain trust between the government and its constituents. Clear communication prevents misunderstandings and fosters informed civic engagement.
Timely and clear communication helps the public understand complex administrative processes and policy changes. It allows residents to engage meaningfully with local government and hold officials accountable.
The Role of Public Information in a Modern City
In today's fast-paced information environment, municipal administrations face increasing demands. They must not only disseminate information but also manage public perception and engage with diverse communities.
The Council's argument centers on the idea that robust communication enables authorities to proactively address issues. It fosters public discourse and ensures that governmental decisions are not only made but also understood by those they affect.
Effective communication strategies involve more than just press releases. They include managing digital platforms, responding to citizen inquiries, and explaining complex urban development projects or environmental initiatives.
Looking Ahead
The debate between the City Council and Councilor Hofstetter highlights different perspectives on administrative efficiency versus public transparency. While some might view communication roles as overhead, the Council asserts their integral nature to democratic functioning.
The City Council's defense of its communication staff levels reflects a commitment to its legal and civic duty. It underscores the importance placed on keeping Bern's citizens informed and engaged in the city's governance.