City of Norwalk, CT ARTICLE VIII DEPARTMENTS AND DEPARTMENT HEADS

§ 8-1 The Authority to Establish the Divisions and Departments of the City.

A. Powers and Duties[1]. In addition to the Divisions and Departments specifically set forth in this Charter and, as further delineated in § 8-1C, below, the City, acting within the authority, powers and duties enumerated in the General Statutes, Special Acts and this Charter, may establish such Divisions and Departments thereunder necessary to carry out and organize the functions of government as set forth in this Charter.

(1) Intent. The express intent of this Charter is to allow the Mayor and the Council the ability to organize the government in order to achieve a balance of efficiency and service to the people of the City. The delineation of departmental categories in this Charter is to mandate services to be provided and functions to be served; in that regard, the structures set forth in this Charter may be altered pursuant to a reorganization plan adopted in accordance with the provisions of this Charter. However, the powers, duties, and functions defined in this Charter must be assigned to Officials of the City.

(2) Objective. The system of government administration set forth in this Charter is specifically designed to reduce duplication of services and efficiently foster the delivery of services to the City.

[1] NOTE: NEW (2023).

B. Creation of Divisions and Departments[2]. The City Council, by an affirmative vote of two-thirds of its entire membership shall, by adopting an Ordinance proposed by the Mayor, establish the Divisions and Departments of the City required to carry out the City's functions and to meet public needs. The Council is authorized to prescribe by Ordinance the powers, duties, and privileges of each Division and Department, not inconsistent with any of the provisions contained herein. Each of these Divisions and Departments must be constituted to perform such functions and have such powers and duties as are imposed by the General Statutes, this Charter and Ordinance.

[2] NOTE: 2023 replacement of current Article IV. The Common Council. § 1-190. Derived from Sp. Laws 1913, No. 352, § 124; Sp. Laws 1915, No. 367, § 8. Historical editor's Note: See Ch. 81, Plumbing; Ch. 36, Electrical Code; Ch. 66, Milk; Ch. 57, Health and Sanitation. The repealed language follows: "Authorization of Council to enact ordinances covering plumbing, sanitation, electrical work, licensing of workers, licensing and regulations of dealers in milk. The Council is also hereby authorized to enact ordinances or bylaws concerning plumbing, sanitation, and electrical work, and to provide for the examination and licensing of master or journeymen plumbers or electricians by such committee of persons as the Council shall designate, and for the revocation of such licenses with power to forbid any unlicensed person doing any plumbing or repairing of plumbing, or doing any electrical work, under such penalties as the Council shall prescribe; to provide for a Building, Plumbing, and Electrical Inspector, define his powers and duties, and determine the fees to be paid for permits; to provide for the licensing of dealers in milk, fix the fees for such licenses, prescribe the conditions under which milk shall be kept, offered for sale, and sold in the City, and prohibit the bringing into the City of milk which is not pure, or which has been exposed to contamination, and to provide penalties for the violation of any of the ordinances of the City."

C. Division Chiefs and Department Heads[3]. The executive leaders of each Division established by Ordinance are (1) subject to the provisions of this Charter generally applicable to Division Chiefs; and (2) serve at the will of the Mayor (however, may continue to serve until a successor is appointed and qualified to serve), unless otherwise provided by the General Statutes, this Charter or any applicable collective bargaining agreement. All Divisions and Departments must be assigned office space provided by the City, which shall remain open during such hours as the Mayor may direct.

[3] NOTE: NEW (2023).

D. Reorganization Plans for Divisions and Departments. As set forth in § 4-5[4], an affirmative vote of two-thirds of the entire membership of the City Council is necessary to effectuate any action authorized by this section, and the legislative action is also subject to the action of the Mayor as set forth in § 4-8D(1)[5].

[4] NOTE: NEW (2023).

[5] NOTE: 2023 modification and recodification of current Article IV. The Common Council. § 1-189.4 (Fifth sentence). Added by Charter Amendment 11-3-1970. New language in lieu of the following: "approval of the Mayor as set forth in § 191 of the Charter (1956 Edition), § 1-197 (1970 Edition). This section shall take effect on January 1, 1971."

§ 8-2 Appointment of Division Chiefs, Department Heads and Other Mayoral Executive-Level Appointees; General Requirements.

A. Appointment. Except as otherwise provided by the General Statutes or this Charter, all Division Chiefs, Department Heads and Other Mayoral Executive-Level Appointees, are subject to the authority and serve under the direction of the Mayor, as follows:

(1) Appointment and Removal in the Sole Discretion of the Mayor[1]. The Chief of Staff, Corporation Counsel[2] and City Clerk shall be appointed by the Mayor. They shall each serve coterminous with the Mayor and may be removed in the sole discretion of the Mayor[3].

[1] NOTE: NEW (2023). Restatement of current practices as set forth in Charter and/or Ordinance: (1) Chief of Staff _________; and (2) Corporation Counsel, as set forth in current § 1-223.

[2] NOTE: Comment of the 2023 Charter Revision Commission. The Corporation Counsel is addressed in Ord. § 63-4. Corporation Counsel and appointed as set forth in Charter and the Ordinances.

[3] NOTE: 2023 modification and recodification of current Article V, Part 1 - General. § 1-223. Derived from Sp. Laws 1913, No. 352, § 79; Sp. Laws 1931, No. 323; Chapter Amendment 9-2-1980. Historical Editor's Note: Approved by the electorate at the general election held 11-4-1980.

(2) Appointed by Mayor and Confirmation by the City Council: Service Under the Direction of the Mayor[4]. Unless otherwise set forth in this Charter or by written agreement, the Mayor is responsible for appointing the following employees, who serve at the direction of and with the pleasure of the Mayor[5], subject to Confirmation by the City Council. The term of service of these officials is also subject to removal as set forth in § 3-10L. At the time of the adoption of the Charter the following Division Chiefs and Other Mayoral Appointees serve at the pleasure of the Mayor:

(a) Chief Financial Officer[6];

[6] NOTE: The Chief Financial Officer is addressed in § 8-4 of this Charter and in Ord, 1-239 et. seq with respect to the duties and authority of the Director of Finance.

(b) Chief of Economic and Community Development[7];

[7] NOTE: At the time of the adoption of the 2023 Revision the Chief of Economic and Community Development is governed by current Ord. 35B-1 - 2. The Division Chief is appointed by Mayor subject to confirmation by Council to serve at the pleasure of the Mayor.

(c) Chief of Human Resources and Personnel[8];

[8] NOTE: At the time of the adoption of this Revision the Chief of HR and Personnel): Personnel Director is governed by current Ord. § 1-287.2. The Chief is appointed by Mayor subject to confirmation by council sat the pleasure of the Mayor and may be removed at the will of the Mayor.

(d) Chief of Operations and Public Works[9]; and

[9] NOTE: At the time of the adoption of the 2023 Revision the Chief of Operations and Public Works is governed by current Ord. § 90-2. The Chief is appointed by Mayor and confirmed by Council subject to removal at the discretion of the Mayor.

(e) Chief of Community Services[10].

[10] NOTE: At the time of the adoption of the 2023 Revision the Chief of Community Services is governed by current Ord. § 33-2. The Chief is appointed by Mayor and confirmed by Council serve at the pleasure of the Mayor.

[4] NOTE: NEW (2023). Restatement of current practices as set forth in Charter and/or Ordinance:

[5] NOTE: 2025 revision of § 8-2A(2) which is derived from the 2023 recodification and modification of current Article V, Part 4 - Department of Finance § 1-239.A. Under the current charter this provision applies to the Director of Finance a/k/a Chief Financial Officer.

(3) Appointed by Mayor and Confirmation by the City Council. The Mayor is responsible for appointing the following Department Heads, subject to Confirmation by the City Council, and to serve as specified by this Charter or Ordinance and until a successor is duly appointed and qualified to serve, unless otherwise terminated in accordance with this Charter or as otherwise set forth in Law as follows:

(a) The Comptroller[11];

[11] NOTE: 2023 recodification and modification of current Article V, Part 4 - Department of Finance § 1-240.A (First and second sentences). Added by Charter Amendment 8-29-1978, § 5. Editor's Note: Approved by the electorate at the general election held 11-7-197. Repealed the following language: "The Mayor elected in November 1979, subject to confirmation by the City Council, shall appoint a City Comptroller to hold office for a term of four (4) years beginning July 1, 1980, and until his or her successor shall be duly appointed and shall have qualified." Comptroller current Art. V - Part 4, § 1-240.A appointed by Mayor subject to confirmation by the Council for a term of 4 years.

(b) The Purchasing Agent[12];

[12] NOTE: 2023 Recodification of current Article V, Part 4 - Department of Finance, § 1-241.A entitled "Division of Purchasing First and second sentences). Added by Charter Amendment 8-29-1978, § 6. Historical Editor's Note: Approved by the electorate at the general election held 11-7-1978. Repealed the following language: "The Mayor elected in November 1977, subject to confirmation by the City Council, shall appoint a Purchasing Agent to hold office for an initial term from the date of his appointment to June 30, 1981, and thereafter the Mayor, subject to confirmation by the City Council, shall appoint a Purchasing Agent to hold office for a term of four (4) years beginning July 1, 1981, and until his or her successor shall be duly appointed and shall have qualified." Note: At the time of the adoption of the 2023 Revision the Purchasing Agent is appointed by Mayor and confirmed by Council for a term of 4-years.

(c) Tax Collector[13];

[13] NOTE: 2023 recodification and modification of current Article V, Part 4 - Department of Finance, § 1-242.A entitled "Division of Tax Collection" (First and second sentences). Added by Charter Amendment 8-29-1978, § 7. Historical Editor's Note: Approved by the electorate at the general election held 11-7-1978. Repealed the following language: "The Mayor elected in November 1981, subject to confirmation by the City Council, shall appoint a Tax Collector to hold office for a term of four (4) years beginning July 1, 1982, and until his or her successor shall be duly appointed and shall have qualified.' Note: At the time of the adoption of the 2023 Charter the Tax Collector is appointed by Mayor and confirmed by Council for a term of 4-years.

(d) Assistant Tax Collectors[14];

[14] NOTE: At the time of the adopt of the 2023 Charter, the Assistant Tax Collectors are governed by Ord. Art. V, § 9-13 + -14. They are appointed by Mayor and Confirmed by Council.

(e) Tax Assessor[15];

[15] NOTE: 2023 recodification and modification of current Article V, Part 4 - Department of Finance, § 1-243.A entitled "Division of Tax Assessment" (First and second sentences). Added by Charter Amendment 8-29-1978, § 8. Historical Editor's Note: Approved by the electorate at the general election held 11-7-1978. Repealed the following language: "There shall be a Division of Tax Assessment headed by the Tax Assessor, who shall be appointed for a term of four (4) years. The Mayor elected in November 1977, subject to confirmation by the City Council, shall appoint a Tax Assessor to hold office for a term of four (4) years beginning July 1, 1979, and until his or her successor shall be duly appointed and shall have qualified." Note: At the time of the adoption of the 2023 Revision, the Tax Assessor is appointed by Mayor and confirmed by Council for a term of 4-years.

(f) Assistant Tax Assessor[16];

[16] NOTE: 2023 recodification and modification of current Article V, Part 4 - Department of Finance, § 1-243.B entitled "Division of Tax Assessment". Repealed the following language: "the Mayor elected in November 1981, subject to confirmation by the City Council, shall appoint an Assistant Tax Assessor to hold office for a term of four (4) years beginning July 1, 1982, and until his or her successor shall be duly appointed and shall have qualified." Note: At the time of the adoption of the 2023 Revision the Assistant Tax Assessor is appointed by Mayor and confirmed by Council for a term of 4-years.

(g) Health Director[17];

[17] NOTE: At the time of the adoption of the 2023 Revision the Director of Health (Health Department) is governed by current Ord. § 57-2 and -3. Under that provisions the Director is appointed by Mayor and confirmed by Council for a term of 4 years, removal for cause. The position is subject to a probationary period and the powers and duties by ordinance.

(h) Deputy and Assistant Corporation Counsels[18];

[18] NOTE: At the time of the adoption of the 2023 Revision the Deputy and Assistant Corporation Counsels are governed by current Ord. § 63-5. They are appointed by Mayor and confirmed by Council. § 63-6. Qualifications of Deputy CC.

(i) Building Official[19];

[19] NOTE: At the time of the adoption of the 2023 Revision the Building Official is governed by current Ord. § 26-5. The official is appointed by Mayor and confirmed by Council for a term of 4-years.

(j) Director of Code Enforcement[20];

[20] NOTE: At the time of the adoption of the 2023 Revision the Director of Code Enforcement is governed by current Ord. § 35A-3.A + B. The Director is appointed by Mayor and confirmed by Council for a term of 4 years. The job description is set forth in the Code of Ordinances.

(k) Municipal Historian[21];

[21] NOTE: At the time of the adoption of the 2023 Revision, the Municipal Historian is governed by current Ord. § 57A-6. The Municipal Historian appointed by Mayor and confirmed by Council, removal for cause. There is no term set forth in the ordinances.

(l) Director of Recreation and Parks[22]; and,

[22] NOTE: At the time of the adoption of the 2023 Revision the Director of Recreation and Parks is governed by current Ord. 74-24. The Director is appointed by the Mayor and confirmed by Council for a term 4 years.

(4) Appointed by Mayor following consultation with the Public Library Board and Confirmation by the City Council[23]. The Mayor is responsible for appointing the Library Director, following consultation with the Public Library Board, subject to Confirmation by the City Council, and to serve as specified by this Charter or Ordinance and until a successor is duly appointed and qualified to serve, unless otherwise terminated in accordance with this Charter or as otherwise set forth in Law.

[23] NOTE: 2025 revision and recodification of § 8-2A(3)(m) which was added to the Charter in 2023, based upon past practice and custom.

(5) Appointed by a Board or Commission for an Indeterminate Term[24]. The following Department Heads must be appointed as follows, for an indeterminate term of office until a successor is duly appointed and qualified to serve, subject to removal in accordance with the provisions of the General Statutes:

(a) Police Chief by the Police Commission; and

(b) Fire Chief, by the Fire Commission.

[24] NOTE: 2025 recodification of § 8-2A(4).

B. Removal of Appointive Officers and Employees[25]. Except as otherwise provided in this Charter, any officer or employee may be removed for malfeasance in office, neglect of duty, or other just cause by the Mayor or other authority in accordance with the procedures set forth in § 3-10 and any Ordinances or Regulations enacted hereunder; or the provisions of any applicable collective bargaining agreement.

[25] NOTE: 2023 recodification of current Article V, Part 1 - General. § 1-222 (First sentence). Derived from Sp. Laws 1913, No. 352, § 78; Charter Amendment 8-29-1978. Historical Editor's Note: Approved by the electorate at the general election held 11-7-1978.

C. Compensation[26]. The salaries and compensation of all Division Chiefs, Department Heads and employees of the City must be established by Ordinance or through the budget or as otherwise covered by the personnel and civil service rules, collective bargaining agreement(s) or other agreement.

[26] NOTE: NEW (2023). The following provisions are repealed (1) pertaining to the Purchasing Agent is repealed: "current Article V, Part 4 - Department of Finance, § 1-241.A entitled "Division of Purchasing (Third sentence);" (2) pertaining to the Tax Collector: "current Article V, Part 4 - Department of Finance, § 1-242.A entitled "Division of Tax Collection" (Third sentence); (3) pertaining to the Tax Assessor and Assistant Tax Assessor; "current Article V, Part 4 - Department of Finance, § 1-243.E entitled "Division of Tax Assessment."

D. Liability.

(1) Unlawful Disbursement of Money[27]. No officer or employee of the City is entitled to receive or disburse money belonging to the City unless authorized to so do by the provisions of this Charter, by Ordinance, or by a Resolution regularly adopted by the Council.

[27] NOTE: 2023 recodification and modification of current Article V, Part 1 - General. § 1-212. Derived from Sp. Laws 1913, No. 352, § 61. Added the term "by Ordinance").

(2) Unlawful Incurring of Debts and Obligations: Authority of the Corporation Counsel to Commence Legal Process[28]. Any officer or employee of the City, who (a) willfully or knowingly incurs in the name of the City any debt or other obligation that the City may be compelled to pay without any appropriation having been made for the benefit of the same or (b) willfully or knowingly incurs any such debt or obligation in excess of any appropriation that may have been made therefor, is deemed personally liable for the payment and reimbursement of such debt or obligation. The Corporation Counsel is hereby authorized to sue for the same, in the name and for the benefit of the City, before any court of competent jurisdiction.

[28] NOTE: 2023 recodification and edit of current Article V, Part 1 - General. § 1-213. Derived from Sp. Laws 1913, No. 352, § 62.

(3) Surety Bond and Other Risk Management Considerations[29]. The City may require surety bond or other forms of insurance for certain Public Officials in accordance with the requirements of an Ordinance, consistent with best practices in the risk management field.

[29] NOTE: 2023 revision and recodification of current Article V, Part 4 - Department of Finance (1) § 1-239.C (Second sentence) and in lieu of the following: "The Director of Finance shall give a bond in an amount to be determined by the Common Council to the City conditioned against defalcation or malfeasance in office, with a surety company as surety;" (2) § 1-242.A entitled "Division of Tax Collection" (Fourth sentence), in lieu fo the following: "The Tax Collector (He or she) shall give a surety bond as required by the General Statutes of the State of Connecticut in an amount prescribed by the Common Council;" and, (3) § 1-243.D entitled "Division of Tax Assessment," in lieu of the following: "The Tax Assessor and the Assistant Tax Assessor shall each give a bond in an amount to be determined by the Common Council to the city conditioned against defalcation or malfeasance in office, with a surety company as surety."

E. Full Time Positions[30]. All Division Chiefs, Department Heads, with the exception of the Corporation Counsel, and other Mayoral Executive-Level Appointees[31], are prohibited from (1) engaging in any commercial business or (2) holding any other office, public or private, for which a salary or emolument is paid; or, (3) having any substantial interest or owning any substantial stock interest in any corporation, partnership or concern having any business relations with the City.

[30] NOTE: 2023 modification and recodification of current Article V, Part 4 - Department of Finance, § 1-244.A entitled "Requirements for certain Department officers". Added by Charter Amendment 8-29-1978, § 9. Editor's Note: Approved by the electorate at the general election held 11-7-1978.

[31] NOTE: In lieu of the following: "The Director of Finance, Comptroller, Purchasing Agent, Tax Collector, Tax Assessor and Assistant Tax Assessor."

F. Delivery of Records to Successor[32]. Upon expiration of the term of office, all Division Chiefs, Department Heads, and other Executive-Level Mayoral Appointees are required to deliver all records to the successor in office.

[32] NOTE: 2023 modification and recodification of current Article V, Part 6 entitled Collector of Taxes and Assessments," § 1-254 (Fourth sentence).

G. Appointive Officer Oath[33]. Every appointee of the Council must, before the appointee enters upon the duties of office, make oath or affirmation before some competent authority that the appointee will faithfully and impartially discharge the duties of office. The form of oath to be administered shall be as follows: "You, _____________ having been appointed _____________ of the City of Norwalk, do swear or affirm that you will faithfully and impartially discharge the duties of office according to your best skill and judgment, so help you God, or upon the pains and penalties of perjury." A certificate of the oath or affirmation under the hand of the authority administering it shall be lodged and kept on file in the office of the City Clerk.

[33] NOTE: 2023 recodification of current Article V, Part 1 - General. § 1-210. Derived from Sp. Laws 1913, No. 352, § 77. Historical Editor's Note: See also § 1-178 for oath for elective officers.

H. Position Titles[34]. The position titles of the Division Chiefs and Department Heads set forth in this Charter reflect the title at the time of the adoption of this Charter. Titles may be changed; however, the functions and fiduciary obligations specifically set forth in this Charter must not be altered[35].

[34] NOTE: NEW (2023).

[35] NOTE: 2023 repeal of current Article V, Part 1 - General. § 1-220.1 pertaining to "Disposal of Surplus or Obsolete Equipment," derived from Charter Amendment 8-23-1977. Historical Editor's Note: Approved by the electorate at the general election held 11-8-1977.

I. Reporting Requirements of the Division Chiefs[36]. The Division Chiefs are each required to prepare for the Board of Estimate and Taxation, the City Council, and the Mayor any special reports which any of them may desire.

[36] NOTE: 2023 recodification and modification of current Article V, Part 4 - Department of Finance § 1-239.F, by requiring this function for all Division Chiefs.

§ 8-3 The Corporation Counsel: The Law Department.

A. Law Department; Department Head[1]. The Corporation Counsel is the administrative head of the Law Department[2].

[1] NOTE: 2023 modification and recodification of current Article IV. The Common Council. § 1-189.4 (First sentence). Added by Charter Amendment 11-3-1970. The following is repealed: "Authorization of Council to Establish Law Department. The Council shall have the power to establish a Law Department."

[2] NOTE: 2023 recodification of current Article IV. The Common Council. § 1-189.4 (Second sentence). Added by Charter Amendment 11-3-1970.

B. Structure of Office[3]. While enacting any Ordinances pertaining to the Law Department, the Council may determine the number of attorneys, their qualifications, their respective terms of office, and their compensation.

[3] NOTE: 2025 revision of § 8-3B adopted in the 2023 modification and recodification of current Article IV. The Common Council. § 1-189.4 (Third and Fourth sentence). Added by Charter Amendment 11-3-1970. The following provision was repealed: "Any such ordinance shall not be inconsistent with § 219 (1956 Edition); § 1-230 (1970 Edition), relative to the employment of attorneys, or with § 212 (1956 Edition); § 1-223 (1970 Edition), relative to the appointment of the Corporation Counsel."

C. Codification[4]. The City of Norwalk will cause to be prepared, under the direction of its Corporation Counsel, a codification of all Ordinances in force and effect.

[4] NOTE: 2023 modification and recodification of current Article IV. The Common Council. § 1-194. Derived from Sp. Laws 1957, No. 111; Charter Amendment 9-2-1. Historical editor's Note: Approved by the electorate at the general election held 11-5-1974. Editor's Note: Approved by the electorate at the general election held 11-4-1980. The following language was repealed: "A competent legal publishing company may be employed by the city for that purpose and said codification may rephrase, alter, repeal or eliminate all obsolete and conflicting ordinances. Said codification shall be published in book form and any ordinances contained therein shall not require publication in a newspaper. The city shall provide sufficient quantities of said codification in book form to make available copies for the use of members of the Common Council, the office of the Corporation Counsel, all other city offices, including the Norwalk Public Libraries, the members of the Charter Revision Commission, and sufficient additional quantities for sale to the public", including the reference to Editor's Note: See Ch. 7, General Provisions, Article I, General.

§ 8-4 Finance Functions. [1]

A. Generally[2]. This division of government is responsible for the administration of the fiscal policies of the City and for keeping of accounts and financial records of the City; for the assessment and collection of taxes, special assessments and other revenues; for the custody and disbursement of City funds and money; for the control over expenditures; for the purchase of services and materials, including insurance; for the preparation of the Operating and Capital Budgets for submission to the Mayor, Board of Estimate and Taxation, City Council and other authorities otherwise provided in this Charter for the adoption of such budgets and for advising each of the authorities when requested as to fiscal matters[3]; and such other powers and duties as may be required by the General Statutes, this Charter, Ordinance, or Order or Motion of the Council[4].

[2] NOTE: 2023 modification and recodification of current Article V, Part 4 - Department of Finance § 1-238. Added by Charter Amendment 8-29-1978, § 3. Historical Editor's Note: Approved by the electorate at the general election held 11-7-1978.

[3] NOTE: 2023 recodification of current Article V, Part 4 - Department of Finance § 1-238.A.

[4] NOTE: NEW (2023).

B. Chief Financial Officer[5]. At the time of the adoption of this provision of the Charter the Division Chief is the Chief Financial Officer. The Chief Financial Officer is responsible for the administration of the financial management of the City.

(1) Departments and Direct Reports to the Division Chief[6]. The following Department Heads and Other Mayoral Appointees are accountable to the Mayor and are also required to report on their functions to the Division Chief responsible for the financial functions of the City: (a) The Comptroller; (b) The Purchasing Agent; (c) The Tax Collector; (d) The Tax Assessor; (e) The Assistant Tax Assessor; and (f) any other Departments that may be assigned.

[6] NOTE: 2023 modification and recodification of current Article V, Part 4 - Department of Finance § 1-237 and § 1-239.C (First sentence). Added by Charter Amendment 8-29-1978, § 2. Historical Editor's Note: Approved by the electorate at the general election held 11-7-1978, in lieu of "there shall be a Department of Finance which shall be composed of the Divisions of Accounting and Treasury, Purchasing, Tax Assessment, and Tax Collection."

(2) Audit Functions[7]. The Chief Financial Officer or a designee is required to audit or cause such accounts to be audited, as determined in the discretion of the Chief Financial Officer. The Chief is also responsible for performing those duties historically performed by the Auditor and the Comptroller[8].

[7] NOTE: 2023 modification and recodification of current Article V, Part 4 - Department of Finance, § 1-240.A. Added by Charter Amendment 8-29-1978, § 5. Historical Editor's Note: Approved by the electorate at the general election held 11-7-1978.

[8] NOTE: 2023 recodification and edit of current Article V, Part 4 - Department of Finance § 1-239.G (First sentence), language replaced: "set forth in § 1-240D of the Charter."

(3) Annual Report[9]. At the end of each Fiscal Year the Chief Financial Officer is required to examine the yearly statement of accounts of all City officers and report the result to the Mayor, Council, and Board of Estimate and Taxation, which report must be entered by the City Clerk upon the records of the City and published in such manner as the Council may order[10].

[9] NOTE: 2023 recodification of current Article V, Part 4 - Department of Finance, § 1-239.G (Second sentence).

[10] NOTE: 2023 repeal of the following provisions: (1) current Article V, Part 4 - Department of Finance, § 1-240.B entitled "Office of City Comptroller." Added by Sp. Laws 1931, No. 323, § 1: "On and after September 1, 1931, the office of City Auditor shall be abolished, and in lieu thereof there is created the office of City Comptroller;" (2) current Article V, Part 4 - Department of Finance, § 1-240.C entitled "Vested Powers." Added by Sp. Laws 1931, No. 323, § 2: "All powers and duties vested in said City Auditor by statute or by the Charter of the City of Norwalk shall be vested in the City Comptroller;" (3) current Article V, Part 4 - Department of Finance, § 1-240.D entitled "Former duties of Auditor which are now performed by Comptroller". Added by Sp. Laws Sp. Laws 1913, No. 352, § 70.7: "The Auditor shall quarterly and oftener when required by the ordinances of said city examine and audit the accounts of all appointed or elected officers of said city, including like officers of the First, Second and Third Taxing Districts, who are authorized to receive or disburse money belonging to said city, or said districts, and shall compare the items of such accounts with the vouchers therefor, and shall report the result of such examination to the Council, and at the end of the current year, he shall examine the yearly statement of accounts of all such officers and report the result to the Council, which report shall be entered by the City Clerk upon the records of said city and published in such manner as the Council may order;" (4) current Article V, Part 4 - Department of Finance, § 1-240.E entitled "Checks or orders to be countersigned by City Comptroller." Added by Sp. Laws 1931, No. 323, § 7: "No funds may be withdrawn by the City Treasurer unless such checks or orders shall be countersigned by the City Comptroller;" and, (5) current Article V, Part 4 - Department of Finance, § 1-240.F entitled "Repeal of inconsistent sections that deal with Treasurer." Added by Sp. Laws 1931, No. 323, § 8: "So much of the Charter of the City of Norwalk, concerning the duties of the City Treasurer, as is inconsistent herewith is repealed."

(4) Special Act Authority of Finance Officials[11]. The Chief Financial Officer, and, subject to the approval of the Chief, the Comptroller, the Purchasing Agent, Tax Collector and Tax Assessor shall have full power to require each City officer to furnish all information which in their possession and to provide the Officials with all books, contracts, Resolutions, reports and other papers and documents in their possession or in within the purview of their Department, requisite in the opinion of the official to enable the discharge of duties, under this Charter and the Ordinance. All City officers shall furnish and exhibit the same in such manner and form as may be prescribed.

[11] NOTE: 2025 recodification of § 14-2D derived from the 2023 edit and recodification of current Article V, Part 4 – Department of Finance, § 1-245 entitled “Powers of Officials”. Added by Charter Amendment 8-29-1978, § 10. Editor's Note: Approved by the electorate at the general election held 11-7-1978.

[5] NOTE: 2023 revision (f/k/a "Director of Finance") and recodification of (1) current Article V, Part 4 - Department of Finance § 1-239. Added by Charter Amendment 8-29-1978, § 4; Charter Amendment 11-8-2005. Historical Editor's Note: Approved by the electorate at the general election held 11-7-1978; and (2) current Article V, Part 4 - Department of Finance § 1-239.B, in lieu of the following: "The Director of Finance shall have experience in finance and possess appropriate professional qualifications for the discharge of his or her office." The following provisions pertaining to the designation of an Assistant Director of Finance and assumption of certain powers and duties of the Comptroller with respect to the capital budget and capital projects program are repealed, as follows (1) current Article V, Part 4 - Department of Finance § 1-239.C (Fourth sentence); and (2) current Article V, Part 4 - Department of Finance § 1-239.E.

C. The Comptroller.

(1) Duties and Responsibilities[12]. The Comptroller is required to perform the duties and responsibilities as set forth in this Charter and the Ordinances, under the authority of the Mayor and operational purview of the Chief Financial Officer or such other official in the event of a reorganization in accordance with the provisions of this Charter.

(a) Certification of the Availability of Appropriated Funds. The Comptroller must, in performance of the duties of office, certify as to the availability of appropriated funds for the payment of every obligation arising by reason of the proposed purchases or contracts of each Budgeted Entity, including the Norwalk Public Schools under the auspices of the Board of Education, and officer of the City, and assure that purchase orders or contracts are valid obligations of the City of Norwalk, bearing the certification of the Comptroller.

(b) Refusal to Approve Purchase Orders or Contracts. The Comptroller is also required to refuse to approve any purchase order or contract when the available appropriation for that purpose is exhausted or, in the opinion of the Comptroller, will be so depleted that there will remain insufficient funds for the regular and ordinary expenditures of that appropriation.

(c) Additional Functions of the Comptroller or Such Other Officer or Employee as May Be Assigned by the Mayor or Chief Financial Officer[13]. The Controller or such other officer or employee as may be assigned by the Mayor or Chief Financial Officer is also required to perform the following functions: (i) Maintaining and supervising of the general accounting system for all Budgeted Entities; (ii) Retaining separate accounts for the appropriations in the budget and the allotments thereof and shall encumber immediately each appropriation and each allotment for the amount of any purchase order, payroll or contract upon approval; (iii) Maintaining for each account of a record of the amounts paid and remaining unpaid, all encumbrances and unencumbered balances; the Comptroller shall keep a record of accounts payable by the City and accounts receivable by the City; (iv) Prescribing and controlling receipts to be used by all Departments, offices, agencies, and commissions of the City; (v) Auditing before payment all bills, invoices, payroll, and other evidence of claims, demands, or charges against the City and approve them only if proper and legal and only if funds have been appropriated and an unspent and unencumbered balance is available; (vi) Administering payroll; and, (vii) Subject to the control and supervision of the Chief Financial Officer as aforesaid, managing and investing the excess funds of the City as well as administering the debt of the City.

[13] NOTE: 2025 recodification of § 14-3 derived from the 2023 recodification of current Article V, Part 4 – Department of Finance § 1-240A (Sixth sentence, clauses (i) – (x)). With the exception of the following provisions which remain in Article VIII, § 8-4C: “certify as to the availability of appropriated funds for the payment of every obligation arising by reason of the proposed purchases or contracts of each Budgeted Entity and officer of the city, and no purchase order or contract shall be a valid obligation of the City of Norwalk unless it shall bear such certification of the Comptroller; and, refuse to approve any purchase order or contract when the available appropriation for that purpose is exhausted or, in his or her opinion, will be so depleted that there will remain insufficient funds for the regular and ordinary expenditures of that appropriation.”

(d) Further Historical Provisions Pertaining to the Duties of the Comptroller[14]. The Controller is also required to perform the following functions: (i) Methods of Accounting and Reporting. The Comptroller, under the direction of the Director of Finance, shall supervise the methods of accounting for all departments and offices of the City and shall prescribe such methods of accounting and reporting as will enable such Controller to keep a true record of all financial acts of the City; and, (ii) Duties of Town Treasurers. The Comptroller shall have the same relative powers and duties within the City of Norwalk as the Town Treasurers under the general statutes in their respective towns except as herein provided.

[14] NOTE: 2025 recodification of § 14-3I derived from the 2023 recodification of current Article V, Part 4 – Department of Finance § 1-240A (Seventh and eighth sentences).

[12] NOTE: 2025 recodification of § 8-4C which is derived from the 2023 recodification and modification of current Article V, Part 4 – Department of Finance § 1-240A (Sixth sentence, clauses (ix) – (x)). The remainder of the historical provision has been recodified under Article XII, subject to sunset upon the conditions set forth in this Charter. The following provisions dealing with the Division of Accounting and Treasury and salary of the Comptroller are repealed: (1) current Article V, Part 4 – Department of Finance § 1-240A (First and second sentences). Added by Charter Amendment 8-29-1978, § 5. Editor's Note: Approved by the electorate at the general election held 11-7-197; and (2) current Article V, Part 4 – Department of Finance § 1-240A (Third through fifth sentences).

D. The Purchasing Agent[15]. The Purchasing Agent is responsible for the duties and responsibilities set forth in this Charter and the Ordinances, under the authority of the Mayor and operational purview of the Chief Financial Officer or such other official(s) in the event of a reorganization in accordance with the provisions of this Charter.

(1) General Duties[16]. The City Purchasing Agent is required to (a) make all purchases of supplies, materials, equipment and contractual services for all Budgeted Entities of the City and (b) administer the central purchasing system for the City covering the purchase of all supplies, materials, equipment, and other commodities for the use and needs of all Departments, Budgeted Entities, Boards and Commissions and Public Officials, including the Board of Education. With regard to the Board of Education, the City Purchasing Agent is required to take advantage of incentives, cooperative agreements, and consortiums generally available to boards of education in order to expedite the acquisition of goods and services for the Board to meet the curriculum and scheduling requirements of the Board.

[16] NOTE: NEW (2023).

(2) Purchasing Ordinance[17]. The City Council is authorized to establish and amend by Ordinance such rules, Regulations, policies and procedures as it may deem necessary or appropriate to define and govern the powers, duties, responsibilities, and operations of such Purchasing Division.

[17] NOTE: 2023 modification and recodification of current Article V, Part 4 - Department of Finance, § 1-241.B (Fifth sentence). Editor's Note: Procurement Guidelines were adopted 2-8-2005 by the Common Council of the City of Norwalk and last amended 7-8-2014. A complete copy of these guidelines and any amendments thereto are on file in the City offices. See also § 19-1, Threshold for bidding, of this Code.

(3) Centralized Purchasing System: Purchasing Ordinance[18]. There must be a centralized purchasing system for the City (including, where practicable, the Board of Education) covering the purchase of all services, supplies, materials, equipment, and other commodities required.

(a) Recommendation of the Purchasing Agent[19]. In order to advance the provisions of this Charter, the City Council is authorized, upon recommendation of the Purchasing Agent, to establish and amend, by Ordinance, the local laws governing the operation of a central purchasing system in a manner consistent with the General Statutes, this Charter, Ordinance and standards established by organizations such as the National Institute of Governmental Purchasing and the National Association of State Purchasing Officials as well as the Model Procurement Code and Ordinances prepared by the American Bar Association.

[19] NOTE: 2023 recodification of current Article V, Part 4 – Department of Finance, § 1-241B (First sentence).

(b) Required Provisions of the Ordinance. The Ordinance must include, but not be limited to, provisions governing: (i) additional roles and responsibilities of the Purchasing Agent; (ii) competitive procurement[20] and solicitation requirements, including local business preference; (iii) specifications, requisition standards and inspection and testing methodologies, following consultation with the Mayor, Chief Financial Officer and appropriate City Officials, designated by the Mayor; (iv) storage; (v) recycled and recyclable products; (vi) transfer or sale of surplus property; and (vii) appropriate reporting standards and inventory control.

[20] NOTE: See, C.G.S. § 7-148v entitled "Requirements for competitive bidding". See also, C.G.S. § 7-148w entitled "Disqualification of contractors from bidding on municipal contracts".

(c) Periodic Review of Ordinance. The Purchasing Agent is required to review the Ordinance every two years and make recommendations for amendment or revision pertaining to the purchase of all services, supplies, materials, equipment, and other commodities required as well as the factors, including, but not limited to, cost, competition and processes, that ensure compliance with the provisions of this Charter[21].

[21] NOTE: 2025 repeal of (1) § 14-4, which is derived from the 2023 recodification and modification of current Article V, Part 4 – Department of Finance, § 1-241A entitled “Division of Purchasing First and second sentences). Added by Charter Amendment 8-29-1978, § 6. Historical Editor's Note: Approved by the electorate at the general election held 11-7-1978. The remainder of the historical provision has been recodified under Article XII, subject to sunset upon the conditions set forth in this Charter; (2) § 14-4A, which is derived from the 2023 recodification of current Article V, Part 4 – Department of Finance, § 1-241B (First sentence); (3) § 14-4D, which is derived from the 2023 recodification of current Article V, Part 4 – Department of Finance, § 1-241B (Fourth sentence); (4) § 14-4B, which is derived from the 2023 recodification of current Article V, Part 4 – Department of Finance, § 1-241B (Second sentence; (5) § 14-4C, which is derived from the 2023 recodification of current Article V, Part 4 – Department of Finance, § 1-241B (Third sentence)..

[18] NOTE: 2025 revision of § 8-4D, which was adopted in the 2023 Charter.

[15] NOTE: 2023 recodification and modification of current Article V, Part 4 - Department of Finance, § 1-241.A entitled "Division of Purchasing (first and second sentences). Added by Charter Amendment 8-29-1978, § 6. Historical Editor's Note: Approved by the electorate at the general election held 11-7-1978. The remainder of the historical provision has been recodified under Article XII, subject to sunset upon the conditions set forth in this Charter.

E. The Tax Collector[22]. The Collector of Taxes and Assessments is required to perform all of the duties and assume all of the responsibilities entrusted to Tax Collectors by virtue of the General Statutes, this Charter, and the Ordinances.

(1) Public Improvement Liens; Duration[23]. In all cases where liens are created on account of public improvements in said City such liens shall, if an appeal is taken from the appraisal of damages or any assessment, continue for a period of sixty Days after the passage of the final decree of a Judge having jurisdiction of such appeal, or after termination of the appeal proceedings, but no longer, unless within said period a certificate signed by the Mayor or Clerk of said City, describing the premises on which the lien exists and stating the amount claimed by said City as a lien thereon, shall be lodged with said Town Clerk of Norwalk.

[23] NOTE: 2025 revision and recodification of § 14-5N which is derived from the 2023 recodification of current Article V, Part 6 entitled Collector of Taxes and Assessments,” § 1-267 (Sp. Laws 1913, No. 352, § 108.)

(2) Sidewalk Improvements; Building Removal[24]. All sums expended or expenses incurred under direction of the Council to level, raise, repair, flag, concrete or pave any sidewalk along the frontage of any property or in the removal of any building erected in violation of this Charter or Ordinances[25], with the expense for filing, shall be a lien upon the lands and buildings with reference to which such expenditures were made or such expense incurred, and such lien shall date from the Day when such expenditures were made or expense incurred and shall have the same validity and be collected in the same manner as tax liens, provided such liens shall not exist for a period longer than sixty Days after such expenditure was made or expense incurred unless, within said period, a certificate, signed by the Mayor and Clerk of said City, is filed with the Town Clerk of Norwalk relating to liens for benefits assessed.

[24] NOTE: 2025 revision and recodification of § 14-5O which is derived from the 2023 recodification of current Article V, Part 6 entitled Collector of Taxes and Assessments,” § 1-268 (Sp. Laws 1913, No. 352, § 109; Sp. Laws 1921, No. 400, § 7.)

[25] NOTE: Historical Editor's Note: See §§ 1-14 and 1-15.

[22] NOTE: 2025 revision of § 8-4E which is derived from the 2023 recodification, consolidation and restructuring of (1) current Article V, Part 4 - Department of Finance, § 1-242.A entitled "Division of Tax Collection" (First and second sentences). Added by Charter Amendment 8-29-1978, § 7. Historical Editor's Note: Approved by the electorate at the general election held 11-7-1978; and (2) current Article V, Part 6 entitled Collector of Taxes and Assessments," § 1-252 Added by Sp. Laws 1933, No. 363, § 4.) The remainder of the historical provisions have been recodified under Article XII, subject to sunset upon the conditions set forth in this Charter. Comment of the 2025 Charter Revision Commission: Repeal of § 14-5 (with the exception of subsections (N) and (O) entitled “Historical Provisions Pertaining to the Tax Collector” derived from the 2023 recodification and modification of current Article V, Part 4 – Department of Finance, § 1-242A entitled “Division of Tax Collection” (First and second sentences). Added by Charter Amendment 8-29-1978, § 7. Historical Editor's Note: Approved by the electorate at the general election held 11-7-1978.

F. The Tax Assessor[26]. The Tax Assessor is responsible for the following:

(1) Appointment of Assistant Tax Assessor[27]. There shall be an appointed Assistant Tax Assessor.

[27] NOTE: 2023 recodification and modification of current Article V, Part 4 - Department of Finance, § 1-243.B entitled "Division of Tax Assessment".

(2) Duties and Powers[28]. All of the duties and powers entrusted to and vested in the Assessors and Board of Assessors under the General Statutes and this Charter, as amended, are entrusted to and vested in the Tax Assessor and Assistant Tax Assessor as constituted herein.

[28] NOTE: 2023 recodification of current Article V, Part 4 - Department of Finance, § 1-243.F entitled "Division of Tax Assessment".

[26] NOTE: 2023 recodification and modification of current Article V, Part 4 - Department of Finance, § 1-243.A entitled "Division of Tax Assessment" (First and second sentences). Added by Charter Amendment 8-29-1978, § 8. Historical Editor's Note: Approved by the electorate at the general election held 11-7-1978.

[1] NOTE: 2023 title change and recodification of current Article V, Part 4 - Department of Finance. Derived from Sp. Laws 1913, No. 352, § 69; Sp. Laws 1921, No. 334, § 2; Sp. Laws 1933, No. 335, § 1; and, § 1-238, Payments to Treasurer. (Sp. Laws 1913, No. 352, § 7), was repealed by Charter Amendment 8-29-1978. Historical Editor's Note: Editor's Note: Former Part 4, City Treasurer, consisting of § 1-237, Duties of the City Treasurer.

§ 8-5 Economic and Community Development Functions. [1]

A. Generally[2]. The functions of this division relate to neighborhood, community, and economic development planning and programs, planning and zoning, code enforcement, blight enforcement, business development and tourism, transportation, mobility and parking, and such other related activities as may be assigned to the Chief from time to time by the Mayor or by Ordinance[3].

[2] NOTE: NEW (2023).

[3] NOTE: Last sentence derived from Ord. § 35B-3.A.

B. Chief of Economic and Community Development[4]. At the time of the adoption of this provision of the Charter, the Division Chief is the Chief of Economic and Community Development. The Chief is responsible for the administration of the functions set forth in this Charter and the Ordinances on the basis of experience and qualifications established by Ordinance.

(1) Departments and Direct Reports to the Division Chief[5]. The following Department Heads and Other Mayoral Appointees are accountable to the Mayor and are also required to report on their functions to the Division Chief: (a) Business Development and Tourism; (b) Code Enforcement[6]; (c) Planning and Zoning; and (4) Transportation, Mobility and Parking[7].

[5] NOTE: NEW (2023).

[6] NOTE: 2023 replacement of current Article IV. The Common Council. § 1-190. Derived from Sp. Laws 1913, No. 352, § 124; Sp. Laws 1915, No. 367, § 8. Historical editor's Note: See Ch. 81, Plumbing; Ch. 36, Electrical Code; Ch. 66, Milk; Ch. 57, Health and Sanitation. The repealed language follows: "Authorization of Council to enact ordinances covering plumbing, sanitation, electrical work, licensing of workers, licensing and regulations of dealers in milk. The Council is also hereby authorized to enact ordinances or bylaws concerning plumbing, sanitation, and electrical work, and to provide for the examination and licensing of master or journeymen plumbers or electricians by such committee of persons as the Council shall designate, and for the revocation of such licenses with power to forbid any unlicensed person doing any plumbing or repairing of plumbing, or doing any electrical work, under such penalties as the Council shall prescribe; to provide for a Building, Plumbing, and Electrical Inspector, define his powers and duties, and determine the fees to be paid for permits; to provide for the licensing of dealers in milk, fix the fees for such licenses, prescribe the conditions under which milk shall be kept, offered for sale, and sold in the City, and prohibit the bringing into the City of milk which is not pure, or which has been exposed to contamination, and to provide penalties for the violation of any of the ordinances of the City."

[7] NOTE: The following provision pertaining to the parking department, in lieu of the Parking Authority is repealed: current Article XIII, § 1-378 derived from Charter Amendment 8-17-1976. Historical Editor's Note I: Former Article XIII, Parking Authority, was repealed 8-17-1976 by the Charter Amendment which established the Parking Department. Historical Editor's Note II: Approved by the electorate at the general election held 11-2-1976. Historical Editor's Note III: Former Article XIV, City Court, was deleted in its entirety, as the city court system was abolished by state statute.

[4] NOTE: NEW (2023)'s Note: Approved by the electorate at the general election held 11-7-1978; and (2) current Article V, Part 4 — Department of Finance § 1-239.B, in lieu of the following: "The Director of Finance shall have experience in finance and possess appropriate professional qualifications for the discharge of his or her office."

[1] NOTE: 2025 repeal of § 13-1 of the Charter entitled Norwalk Harbor.” These provisions were moved to City Code § 69-2A [first half of § 13-1A]; § 69-21 [second half of § 13-1A]; § 69-22C [§ 13-1B] and D [§ 13-1C]; § 69-5 [§ 13-1E]; and, and § 69-6 [§ 13-1D].

§ 8-6 Human Resources and Personnel Functions.

A. Generally[1]. The functions of this division of government involve the administration of the City's compensation plans and employee benefit programs, assistance to all Departments and other Budgeted Entities in the recruitment, selection, and training of new employees; conducting analyses of job classifications, developing and running periodic employee training and safety programs as well as training and establishing policies pertaining to the scope of federal and state laws addressing discrimination and harassment, maintaining employee records, providing personnel and labor relations services to all Departments and other Budgeted Entities, representing the City's interest in collective bargaining, grievance, and arbitration matters and such other related activities as may be assigned to the Chief from time to time by the Mayor or by Ordinance.

[1] NOTE: NEW (2023). Comment of the 2025 Charter Revision Commission: § 13-3 entitled “Pensions for Certain Retired Employees.” Is hereby repealed. The section is explained in the following historical note: “Historical Editor's Note I: As to pension plan for city employees see Appendix, Part II, Pension Plan. § 1-659. through § 1-662. (Reserved). Historical Editor's Note II: Former § 1-659, Payment to Grace Briggs Barrett, and § 1-660, Pension from date of retirement included in estimate of expenditures, Sp. Laws 1949, No. 34, §§ 1 and 2, and §§ 1-661, Payment to Charles T. McGovern, and 1-662, Pension included in estimate of expenditures, Sp. Laws 1953, No. 426, §§ 1 and 2, were repealed 9-2-1980 by Charter Amendment, approved by the electorate at the general election held 11-4-1980.” In the event any person makes a claim under this repealed provision we are including the full content of § 13-4A, as follows: “Payment to Widows. The City of Norwalk shall pay annually to Mary E. Eldridge, widow of James Eldridge, during the term of her natural life, the sum of $706.80, in equal monthly payments to commence September 1, 1955. The Board of Estimate and Taxation shall include annually in the estimate of expenditures of the City and Town of Norwalk a sum sufficient to pay such pension.” The provision was a 2023 recodification of current Article XXI “Pensions for Certain Retired Employees,” § 1-663. Derived from Sp. Laws 1955, No. 298; Charter Amendment 9-2-1980. Historical Editor's Note: Approved by the electorate at the general election held 11-4-1980. § 1-664. (Reserved) Historical Editor's Note: Former § 1-664, Payment to John Mills, Sp. Laws 1957, No. 154, was repealed 9-2-1980 by Charter Amendment, approved by the electorate at the general election held 11-4-1980.

B. Chief of Human Resources and Personnel[2]. At the time of the adoption of this provision of the Charter, the Division Chief is the Chief of Human Resources and Personnel. The Chief is responsible for the administration of the functions set forth in this Charter and the Ordinances on the basis of experience and qualifications established by Ordinance[3].

[2] NOTE: NEW (2023). In lieu of current Article V, Part 9 - Personnel Department, 1-287.2. Derived from Sp. Laws 1969, No. 151, § 2; Charter Amendment 8-13-1974. Historical Editor's Note: Approved by the electorate at the general election held 11-5-1974, which is repealed as follows: "On the first (1^st) Monday after the first (1^st) Tuesday in December 1977, the Mayor then in office shall appoint a Personnel Director, subject to confirmation of the Council of the City, who shall hold office at the pleasure of the Mayor and who may be removed at any time at the will of the Mayor. Such removal for all purposes shall be treated as a resignation. If the Mayor shall so remove his appointee, he shall forthwith appoint a successor, which appointment shall require confirmation by the Council. The Mayor shall fill any vacancy in the office of Personnel Director, subject to confirmation by the Council." Also, in lieu of current Article V, Part 9 - Personnel Department, 1-287.1. Derived from Sp. Laws 1969, No. 151, § 1.

[3] NOTE: 2023 repeal of current Article V, Part 9 - Personnel Department, 1-287.3. Derived from Sp. Laws 1969, No. 151, § 3, as follows: "The Common Council shall establish by ordinance rules, regulations, policies and procedures which shall govern the operation of said Personnel Department and the administration of personnel matters in the City of Norwalk, including the duties of the Personnel Director. Such ordinance may be amended from time to time by the Common Council in such manner as it may deem necessary for the proper operation of said Personnel Department and the proper administration of personnel matters in the City of Norwalk."

§ 8-7 Operations Functions.

A. Generally[1]. The functions under this division of government pertain to the administration and management of policies and programs pertaining to the operations and infrastructure needs of the City.

[1] NOTE: NEW (2023). Derived from Ord. § 90-1. Note: Public Works was a mandatory provision under current Article IV. The Common Council. § 1-189.2.A (Second sentence). Derived from Charter Amendment 11-3-1970. Historic editor's Note: Former § 1-189.3, Authorization of Council to establish Purchasing Department, added by Charter Amendment 11-3-1970, was repealed by Charter Amendment 8-29-1978. The remainder of the historical provisions have been recodified under Article XII, subject to sunset upon the conditions set forth in this Charter.

B. Chief of Operations and Public Works. At the time of the adoption of this provision of the Charter, the Division Chief is the Chief of Operations and Public Works. The Chief shall be responsible for the administration of the functions set forth in this Charter and the Ordinances on the basis of experience and qualifications established by Ordinance.

(1) Departments and Direct Reports to the Division Chief[2]. The following Department Heads and Other Mayoral Appointees are accountable to the Mayor and are also required to report on their functions to the Division Chief: (a) Building Management, (b) Engineering, (c) Public Works[3], (d) Recreation and Parks[4] and (e) others as may be directed by Ordinance[5].

[2] NOTE: NEW (2023).

[3] NOTE: 2023 recodification of (1) current Article XI, (a) § 1-362 (Reserved) derived from Sp. Laws 1945, No. 313, § 1; (b) § 1-363 (Reserved), derived from Sp. Laws 1945, No. 313, § 2; Charter Amendment 8-17-1976; (c) § 1-364 derived from Sp. Laws 1945, No. 313, § 3; Sp. Laws 1947, No. 218, § 2; (d) § 1-365 derived from Sp. Laws 1945, No. 313, § 4; and, (e) § 1-366 derived from Sp. Laws 1947, No. 218, § 1. Historical Editor's Note: Former Article XI, Department of Public Works, was repealed 10-24-1978. For current provisions in this regard, see Ch. 88, Public Works Department, of the Code of the City of Norwalk; (2) current Article XV, Part 2. Laying Out, Altering, Extending or Discontinuing. Part 3 (Reserved) contained the following historical editor's note: "Former Part 3, Sprinkling, which was comprised of §§ 1-451 through 1-456, Sp. Laws 1913, No. 352 §§ 117 through 122, was repealed 9-2-1980 by Charter Amendment, approved by the electorate at the general election held 11-4-1980." Sections 1-451 through 1-456 (Reserved); (3) current Article XV entitled "Streets, Sidewalks and Building Lines". Part 2. Laying Out, Altering, Extending or Discontinuing. (a) § 1-443 derived from Sp. Laws 1913, No. 352, § 127; (b) § 1-444. Derived from Sp. Laws 1945, No. 216, § 1. Editor's Note: For Commissioner of Public Works, see § 1-363. (c) § 1-445. Derived from Sp. Laws 1945, No. 216, § 2. (d) § 1-446. Derived from Sp. Laws 1945, No. 216, § 3; (d) § 1-447. Derived from Sp. Laws 1945, No. 216, § 4. (e) § 1-448. Derived from Sp. Laws 1945, No. 216, § 5. (f) § 1-449. Derived from Sp. Laws 1945, No. 263, § 1. (g) § 1-450. Derived from Sp. Laws 1945, No. 263, § 2.

[4] NOTE: 2023 repeal of current Article XVII. Part 1: (1) Historical Editor's Note: Editor's Note: See also, Ch. 74, Parks and Recreation; Appendix, Part IV, Veteran's Memorial Park; Part 2 (Reserved). Historical Editor's Note: A Charter Amendment, adopted 9-2-1980 and approved by the electorate at the general election held 11-4-1980, repealed former Part 2, Bonds, which was comprised of the following sections: §§ 1-489 through 1-493, Sp. Laws 1941, No. 36, §§ 1 to 5; §§ 1-494 through 1-499, Sp. Laws 1949, No. 205, §§ 1 to 6; §§ 1-500 through 1-506, Sp. Laws 1947, No. 342, §§ 1 through 6, and Sp. Laws 1953, No. 278, §§ 1 and 2. These sections will be maintained for record purposes in a separate book entitled "Bond Issues of the City of Norwalk, the First, the Second, the Third and the Sixth Taxing Districts." Copies of such compilation shall be kept in the offices of the City Clerk and Town Clerk and in the Finance Department. § 1-489. through § 1-506. (Reserved); (2) current Article XVII, Part 1. General, (a) § 1-484. Derived from Sp. Laws 1917, No. 423, § 1; (b) § 1-485. Derived from Sp. Laws 1917, No. 423, § 2; (c) § 1-486. Derived from Sp. Laws 1917, No. 423, § 3; (d) § 1-487. Derived from Sp. Laws 1917, No. 423, § 4; and (e) § 1-488. Derived from Sp. Laws 1917, No. 423, § 5; Sp. Laws 1921, No. 131.

[5] NOTE: 2025 repeal of (1) § 14-6A - M. Comment of 2023 Charter Revision Commission. Public Works was a mandatory provision under current Article IV. The Common Council. § 1-189.2A (Second sentence). Derived from Charter Amendment 11-3-1970. Historic editor's Note: Former § 1-189.3, Authorization of Council to establish Purchasing Department, added by Charter Amendment 11-3-1970, was repealed by Charter Amendment 8-29-1978. The remainder of the historical provisions have been recodified under Article XII, subject to sunset upon the conditions set forth in this Charter: (2) 2025 repeal of (1) § 13-2F (“Cross Street”) which is derived from the 2023 recodification of current Article XV, Part 1. General, § 1-434. Derived from Sp. Laws 1957, No. 419, § 1; (2) § 13-2G (“Cross Street: Acquiring rights-of-way; cost of constructing bridges and approaches”) which is derived from 2023 recodification of current Article XV, Part 1. General, § 1-435. Derived from Sp. Laws 1957, No. 419, § 2; and, (3) § 13-2H (“Cross Street; Responsibilities”) which is derived from 2023 recodification of current Article XV, Part 1. General, § 1-436. Derived from Sp. Laws 1957, No. 419, § 3.

§ 8-8 Community Service Functions. [1]

A. Generally[2]. The functions under this division of government pertain to the administration and management of policies and programs designed to (1) increase and sustain the social well-being and health of all residents of the City, by consolidating initiatives and programs that directly affect the social well-being and health of the residents of the City; (2) provide oversight and administrative support to departments under its supervision; and (3) such other related activities as may be assigned to the Chief from time to time by the Mayor or by Ordinance. The Chief serves as the liaison to state and federal agencies within the purview of the division.

[2] NOTE: NEW (2023).

B. Chief of Community Services[3]. At the time of the adoption of this provision of the Charter, the Division Chief is the Chief of Community Services. The Chief shall be responsible for the administration of the functions set forth in this Charter and the Ordinances on the basis of experience and qualifications established by Ordinance.

[3] NOTE: NEW (2023).

C. Departments and Direct Reports to the Division Chief[4]. The following Department Heads and Other Mayoral Appointees are accountable to the Mayor and are also required to report on their functions to the Division Chief: (a) Health, (b) Public Library[5], (c) Human Services and (d) others as may be directed by Ordinance or assigned by the Mayor.

[4] NOTE: NEW (2023).

[5] NOTE: At the time of the adoption of this Charter the Public Library consists of the libraries in the First Taxing District and the Second Taxing District of the City. The Rowayton Library and East Norwalk Library are not governed by the Charter and Ordinances.

[1] NOTE: 2023 repeal of the following provisions pertaining to Social Services and Public Welfare: from current Article X — Department of Social Services, (1) § 1-353. Derived from Charter Amendment 2-10-1981.) Historical Editor's Note: The Charter Amendment adopted 2-10-1981 also provided for the repeal of former §§ 1-353 through 1-361, which comprised former Art. X, Department of Public Welfare (Sp. Laws 1913, No. 352, § 171; Sp. Laws 1933, No. 331, §§ 1 and 2; Sp. Laws 1935, No. 505, §§ 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 7.); (2) § 1-354. Derived from Charter Amendment 2-10-1981; (3) § 1-356. Derived from Charter Amendment 2-10-1981; (4) § 1-356. Derived from Charter Amendment 2-10-1981; (5) § 1-358. Derived from Charter Amendment 2-10-1981; and (5) § 1-357. Derived from Charter Amendment 2-10-1981.

§ 8-9 Public Safety Functions.

A. The Police Department[1]. The Police Department is responsible for the preservation of the public peace, prevention of crime, apprehension of criminals, regulation of traffic, protection of the rights of persons and property and enforcement of Laws and Ordinances and all rules and Regulations made in accordance therewith[2]. The City must maintain an adequate police force and provide all services as may be required by Law, Charter or Ordinance.

(1) All sworn members of the Department possess and are authorized to exercise the authority and duties pertaining to the service of criminal process and enforcement of criminal laws as are vested in police officers by Law, this Charter and Ordinances[3].

[3] NOTE: NEW (2023). 2023 repeal of current Article VIII - Police Department and Police Fund, Part 1 - General, § 1-303 (Derived from Sp. Laws 1913, No. 352, § 141; Sp. Laws 1925, No. 225, § 17.) Historical Editor's Note: Refer to § 1-217 for powers of Constables; See also, 2023 repeal of current Article VIII - Police Department and Police Fund, Part 1 - General, § 1-311 (Derived from Sp. Laws 1953, No. 590, § 1, as follows: "The police shall have the powers of Constables of towns in the apprehension and arrest of criminals and the service of process within the limits of the City."

(2) The Chief of Police - Powers and Duties[4]. The head of the Police Department is the Chief of Police who is responsible for the general management and operations of the Police Department. In this regard, the Chief is required to propose, in writing, policies, rules, and Regulations concerning the general management and operations of the Department and the conduct of all its members, in accordance with Law, this Charter and Ordinance.

(a) Appointment[5]. The Police Commission is required to appoint the Chief of Police as set forth in § 7-2B(2)(b); however, the Chief may be removed from office in accordance with the provisions of this Charter, the Ordinances and the General Statutes[6]. The Chief of Police may hold office until completion of service or until a successor shall be appointed and shall have qualified.

[5] NOTE: NEW (2023).

[6] NOTE: C.G.S. § 7-278 entitled "Hearing prior to dismissal of municipal police head. Just cause requirement. Appeal".

(b) Qualifications[7]. The Chief of Police must meet the requirements, qualifications and certifications as may be set forth in the General Statutes and required by the City in accordance with nationally accepted professional standards and best practices in the applicable field as developed pursuant to § 8-2E[8].

[7] NOTE: Charter Revision of 2011.

[8] NOTE: 2023 repeal of (1) current Article VIII - Police Department and Police Fund, Part 1 - General, § 1-305.1 (Derived from Sp. Laws 1967, No. 403), as follows: "here shall be a special police force or call force in the City of Norwalk consisting of not more than two hundred (200) members. The members of said special police or call force shall be appointed by the Board of Police Commissioners for terms not exceeding two (2) years. No person shall be appointed a member of the special police or call force unless he is an elector of the City of Norwalk, of good moral character and habits, in good health, and shall have passed such examination, mental and physical, as may be required by the Board of Police Commissioners. Such special police force or call force shall, at all times, be under the direction and control of the Chief of Police and shall perform such duties as may be assigned or designated by said Chief of Police. Members of the special police or call force shall have the power of regular policemen in the apprehension and arrest of criminals, in maintaining public order, and in the service of process within the limits of the City of Norwalk, and shall be paid for their services by said city;" (2) current Article VIII - Police Department and Police Fund, Part 1 - General (arrest without warrant), § 1-306 (Derived from Sp. Laws 1913, No. 352, § 148), as follows: "It shall be the duty of any police officer of the City to arrest, without previous complaint or warrant, any person guilty of drunkenness, vagrancy, disorderly conduct, breach of the peace, common assault, or any other offense committed within the City, when such offender may be taken or apprehended in the act, or on the speedy information of others, or when such officer has reasonable grounds to believe that an offense has been committed, and all persons so arrested shall be immediately presented before the Superior Court for trial; and, (3) current Article VIII - Police Department and Police Fund, Part 1 - General, (1) § 1-303 (Derived from Sp. Laws 1913, No. 352, § 141; Sp. Laws 1925, No. 225, § 17.) Historical Editor's Note: Refer to § 1-217 for powers of Constables, as follows:". The police shall have the powers of Constables of towns in the apprehension and arrest of criminals and the service of process within the limits of the City; and (2) § 1-313 (Derived from Charter Amendment 11-3-1970), as follows: "All the inhabitants and real and personal property within the limits of the Fifth Taxing District shall be liable to taxation to defray the expenses of the Police Department, and an appropriation for the Police Department shall be included in the annual budget of the City. This section shall apply to the fiscal year beginning July 1, 1971, and shall be effective as of that date.".

[4] NOTE: NEW (2023).

[1] NOTE: 2023 modification and recodification of current Article VIII - Police Department and Police Fund, Part 1 - General, § 1-312 (Derived from Charter Amendment 11-3-1970), in lieu of the following: "The Norwalk Police Department shall maintain an adequate police force and shall provide all services as they may be required in the entire City of Norwalk. This section shall apply to the fiscal year beginning July 1, 1971, and shall be effective as of that date."

[2] NOTE: NEW (2023).

B. The Fire Department. The Fire Department is responsible for the protection of life and property in the City from fire and other like disasters and emergencies, and for the enforcement of all Laws, Ordinances and Regulations relating to fire prevention and fire safety[9]. The jurisdiction of the Norwalk Fire Department extends to the entire City of Norwalk except to the Sixth Taxing District[10]. The Department is required to maintain an adequate fire-fighting force; provide all services as may be required; and maintain all necessary fire houses and fire-fighting equipment within the boundaries of the Fifth Taxing District, except the Sixth Taxing District[11]. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Norwalk Fire Department is required to make available the services of its entire department to the entire City whenever they may be required[12].

(1) The Fire Chief - Powers and Duties[13]. The head of the Fire Department is the Fire Chief, who is responsible for the general management and operations of the Fire Department. In this regard, the Chief is required to propose, in writing, policies, rules and Regulations concerning the general management and operations of the Department and the conduct of all its members, in accordance with Law.

[13] NOTE: NEW (2023).

(2) Appointment[14]. The Fire Commission is required to appoint the Fire Chief as set forth in § 7-2C(2)(c); however, the Chief may be removed from office in accordance with the provisions of this Charter, the Ordinances and the General Statutes[15]. The Fire Chief may hold office until Completion of Service or until a successor shall be appointed and shall have qualified.

[14] NOTE: NEW (2023).

[15] NOTE: See, C.G.S. § 7-302 entitled "Hearing prior to dismissal of fire department head. Appeal".

(3) Qualifications[16]. The Fire Chief must meet the requirements, qualifications and certifications as may be set forth in the General Statutes and required by the City in accordance with nationally accepted professional standards and best practices in the applicable field as developed pursuant to § 8-2E.

[16] NOTE: Charter Revision of 2011.

(4) Taxation[17]. All of the inhabitants and the real and personal property within the limits of the Fifth Taxing District, with the exception of the Sixth Taxing District, shall be liable to taxation in order to defray the expenses of the Norwalk Fire Department. An appropriation to cover the operation of the Norwalk Fire Department shall be included in the annual budget of the City.

[17] NOTE: 2023 Recodification of current Article XXII "Extension of Fire Protections," § 1-667. Derived from Charter Amendment 11-3-1970; effective 7-1-1971.

(5) Termination of Sixth Taxing District Exception[18]. At such time as the Sixth Taxing District shall cease to maintain its own Fire Department, the Sixth Taxing District shall no longer be excepted from the provisions of § 8-9B, hereinabove, and all of the inhabitants and real and personal property within the Fifth Taxing District are liable to taxation to defray the expenses of the Department.

[18] NOTE: 2023 recodification of current Article XXII "Extension of Fire Protections," § 1-668. Derived from Charter Amendment 11-3-1970; effective 7-1-1971.

[9] NOTE: NEW (2023).

[10] NOTE: 2023 recodification of current Article XXII "Extension of Fire Protections," § 1-665. Derived from Charter Amendment 11-3-1970; effective 7-1-1971. See also, current Article XXII "Extension of Fire Protection." [Adopted 6-14-1961] Historical Editor's Note: See also, Art. IX and Ch. 41, Fire Department.]

[11] NOTE: 2023 modification and recodification of current Article XXII "Extension of Fire Protections," § 1-666. Derived from Charter Amendment 11-3-1970, effective 7-1-1971, in lieu of the following: "(i) The Norwalk Fire Department shall maintain adequate fire-fighting force within the Fifth Taxing District of the City of Norwalk and in addition thereto shall maintain all necessary fire houses and fire-fighting equipment within the boundaries of the Fifth Taxing District of the City of Norwalk, except the Sixth Taxing District. (ii) The Norwalk Fire Department shall make available the services of its entire department to the entire city whenever they may be required."

[12] NOTE: 2023 modification and recodification of current Article XXII "Extension of Fire Protections," § 1-666. Derived from Charter Amendment 11-3-1970, effective 7-1-1971.