A. 
Generally. This part of the Administrative Code establishes and describes the administrative agencies of the City and broadly highlights the authorities and responsibilities of each.
B. 
Supervision. All administrative agencies, except the Watertown Free Public Library and Watertown Public Schools, are under the jurisdiction and supervision of the City Manager. The City Manager shall be responsible for appointing all Department Heads and staff, except with respect to the Watertown Free Public Library and Watertown Public Schools. The Department of Public Buildings is under the joint supervision of the City Manager and the School Superintendent. The City Manager may assign daily oversight of individual agencies to 1 or more of the Assistant City Manager or Deputy City Manager positions, by providing notice of such oversight assignments to the City Council and providing an updated organizational chart with these assignments on the City's website.
C. 
Coordination of operations. The City Manager coordinates the operation of the administrative agencies under their jurisdiction by implementing the powers and duties delineated in Charter § 3-2.
D. 
City Council coordination. All agencies under the jurisdiction of the City Manager ensure that the City Council receives objective, timely, professional, and accurate information upon request to better assist the City Council in its legislative and policy decision-making process. The transmittal of reports between the City Council and these agencies shall be routed through the City Manager.
E. 
Annual reports. Pursuant to Charter § 3-2(13c), all agencies shall prepare an annual report of their activities and submit it to the City Manager on or before the fourth Friday in March. The annual report shall be completed each April and describe the activities of the previous calendar year.
A. 
Established. There shall be an Assessing Department under the supervision of a Chief Assessor.
B. 
Authorities and responsibilities. The Assessing Department creates and maintains a database that includes property characteristics and ownership information for every parcel within the City. This information forms the basis for the department to apportion the tax levy fairly and equitably among all the taxpaying accounts. In addition, the department administers motor vehicle excise tax, acts on statutory exemptions, and considers abatements regarding property values.
A. 
Established. There shall be an Auditing Department under the supervision of a City Auditor. The City Auditor is appointed by the City Council under Charter § 2-7a and supervised by the City Council President under Charter § 2-7f. All additional Auditing department staff positions are appointed by the City Manager.
B. 
Authorities and responsibilities.
a. 
The Auditor shall have and perform for the City all powers and duties prescribed by the provisions of the General Laws governing municipal auditors and accountants.
b. 
The City shall cause to be made annually, with the approval of the City Council, an outside audit of the books and accounts of the City. The audits shall be conducted in accordance with generally accepted government auditing standards and shall be presented to the City Council upon its completion.
c. 
The outside audit shall be performed by an external auditor or public accountant who meets the independent standards set forth under the generally accepted government auditing standards. The outside auditor shall have an appropriate background and training in municipal account systems.
d. 
The Auditing Department is responsible for ensuring the City's financial reports are accurate and legally compliant. The City Auditor oversees the financial management of City agencies by verifying cash balances, maintaining financial records, and compiling statements on expenditures and appropriations. The City Auditor examines all original bills, vouchers, and accounts to verify financial accuracy and legal compliance, scrutinizes all bills and payrolls, and issues warrants for payment if found correct. The Auditing department has the right to reject fraudulent, excessive, or unlawful claims. The City Auditor maintains custody of all City contracts and produces year-end statements detailing budgeted versus actual spending and future budget estimates for the City Manager and City Council as well as assists in developing the annual budget, capital improvement programs, and long-term financial forecasts.
A. 
Established. There shall be a City Clerk's Office under the supervision of a City Clerk.
B. 
Authorities and responsibilities. The City Clerk's Office is responsible for maintaining vital records (birth, marriage, death) and preserving the City's official and historical documents. The City Clerk is the keeper of the City seal and administers oaths to elected and appointed officials. The office supports the Board of Election Commissioners and administers elections and the annual City census. The department intakes and ensures appropriate response to public records requests and receives and forwards legal claims to the City's insurer. It ensures all employees and members of multi-member bodies complete the state-mandated training in the Conflict of Interest Law. The department provides members of multi-member bodies with the Open Meeting Law and posts public meeting notices. It coordinates the issuance of a variety of licenses and supports the Licensing Board. The City Clerk carries out all other duties required by state law.
A. 
Established. There shall be a City Manager's Office under the supervision of a City Manager.
B. 
Authorities and responsibilities. The City Manager's Office supports the City Manager in implementing the powers and duties delineated in Charter § 3-2.
A. 
Established. There shall be a Department of Community Development and Planning under the supervision of an Assistant City Manager for Community Development and Planning. The Department of Community Development and Planning is responsible for developing and implementing the City's Comprehensive Plan, area plans, and related programs and policies. The Department of Community Development and Planning shall have the following divisions: Community Design, Inspectional Services, and Planning and Zoning; and the following teams: Code Enforcement, Events, and Sustainability.
B. 
Community Design Division authorities and responsibilities. The Community Design Division focuses on enhancing the quality of life and attracting investment in the City by pursuing urban design programs; parks, open space, and public realm improvements; arts and culture activities; historic preservation; and strategic engagement with the business community.
C. 
Inspectional Services Division authorities and responsibilities. The Inspectional Services Division protects community health, welfare, and safety by enforcing codes as they pertain to the safe construction and operation of buildings, including building, electrical, and plumbing and gas codes.
D. 
Planning and Zoning Division authorities and responsibilities. The Planning and Zoning Division is responsible for coordinating planning activities related to transportation, housing, and land use, including updating and implementing the City's zoning ordinance.
E. 
Code Enforcement Team authorities and responsibilities. The Code Enforcement Team enforces all zoning ordinances and general City ordinances, enforces decisions of the Planning Board and Zoning Board of Appeals, and educates the public about the City's codes and regulations.
F. 
Events Team authorities and responsibilities. The Events Team is responsible for the organization, promotion, and planning of City-sponsored events, festivals, and activities, as well as the operation and management of the Commander's Mansion, a historic event venue owned by the City.
G. 
Sustainability Team authorities and responsibilities. The Sustainability Team is responsible for development and implementation of the Resilient Watertown Climate and Energy plan as well as policies and programs to achieve the goals established in the plan to reduce the City's contribution to climate change and enhance the City's ability to prepare for its impacts.
A. 
Established. There shall be a Constituent Services Department under the supervision of a Director of Constituent Services.
B. 
Authorities and responsibilities. The Constituent Services Department manages the 311 Service Center and is responsible for managing all incoming inquiries, concerns, comments, and questions. The department is also responsible for logging non-emergency requests or guiding constituents on how to do so. It collaborates with departments to ensure that these requests are completed promptly and that constituents are informed about the status of their requests in a timely manner. Additionally, the Constituent Services Department contributes to the improvement of City government through accurate and consistent service delivery measurements. The Constituent Services Department upholds the highest quality assurance standards and serves as a bridge between the community and the government, keeping accurate records of customer interactions, requests, and feedback.
A. 
Established. There shall be a Fire Department under the supervision of a Fire Chief, who shall also function as the Emergency Management Director.
B. 
Authorities and responsibilities.
1. 
The Fire Department takes all necessary steps for the extinguishment of fires and the mitigation of hazardous incidents within the City, including the utilization of all necessary personnel and equipment, the destruction of any building or structure, and the removal of any obstruction for the purpose of checking or extinguishing fires or hazardous incidents. The department provides emergency medical services to include initial patient care and ambulance transportation to area hospitals. The department assists in the re-establishment of order in the event of civil disturbance, disaster, riot, or any other declared emergency. The department investigates the causes of all fires and provides written reports of all suspected arson and inspects all buildings and structures as provided for by the state fire code. The department establishes the location, relocation, or removal of all public fire alarm boxes.
2. 
The Fire Department shall also function as the Emergency Management Department to carry out emergency management duties prescribed in the General Laws and local ordinances. The department provides planning, resources, communication, and recovery services in support of emergencies within the City. The department updates and maintains emergency plans including the comprehensive emergency management plan and affiliated hazardous materials emergency response plans.
A. 
Established. There shall be a Human Resources Department under the supervision of a Human Resources Director.
B. 
Authorities and responsibilities. The Human Resources Department advises and assists the City Manager and department heads on a broad range of personnel matters, including position classification, compensation levels, employee and labor relations, grievances, and disciplinary actions. The department is responsible for the development, implementation, and administration of personnel policies and the City's classification and compensation plans. The department participates in collective bargaining negotiations and administers the provisions of collective bargaining agreements. It also plans, develops, and supervises training programs and professional development initiatives. The department is further responsible for developing and coordinating policies aimed at recruiting and retaining a diverse and qualified workforce. It ensures compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local labor and employment laws. Additionally, the department oversees the City's unemployment insurance program, the workers' compensation program, and administration of the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA). The department also identifies strategies that help foster a positive, inclusive, and respectful work environment that supports employee engagement, wellbeing, and professional growth.
A. 
Established. There shall be a Human Services Department under the supervision of a Human Services Director.
B. 
Authorities and responsibilities. The Human Services Department is responsible for the coordination and administration of the City's human services programs, community partnerships, and referral pathways to address housing insecurity, food access, economic need, community wellness, and support for migrants, veterans, and people with disabilities.
A. 
Established. There shall be an Information Technology Department under the supervision of a Chief Technology Officer.
B. 
Authorities and responsibilities. The Information Technology Department is responsible for managing the storage, security, and integrity of all electronic data in the custody of the City; enhancing and managing the City's networks to provide high-speed, transparent, and highly functional connectivity among all information and communication resources; assisting all departments in the selection and setup of all software, equipment, and applications; developing new solutions and applications to address current and future needs for all departments and employees; and providing other services and taking other actions as prudent and assigned to ensure the prompt delivery of services.
A. 
Established. The City Manager, with the approval of the City Council, shall appoint an individual or legal firm to serve as City Attorney and oversee legal services for the City. Individuals tasked to provide legal services to the City shall be members in good standing of the Massachusetts bar.
B. 
Authorities and Responsibilities. In addition to any statutory requirements or specific assignments by the City Manager, the legal services department or firm is responsible to counsel and advise all executive offices, boards, committees, and commissions in all legal matters, represent the City in all legal proceedings by or against the City, provide legal opinions, and assist in legal matters. The City Manager shall have full authority as agent of the City to institute and prosecute suits in the name of the City or its officers in the City Manager's official capacity and to appear and defend suits brought against its officers in their official capacity, unless otherwise ordered by a vote of the City Council or provided by law. The City Manager may institute, prosecute, defend, compromise, and settle claims, actions, suits, or other proceedings brought by, on behalf of, or against the City except that in no case shall a settlement be so made by a payment of more than $20,000 without a vote of authority by the City Council. The City Manager may also employ special counsel whenever he or she deems it necessary.
A. 
Established. There shall be a Police Department under the supervision of a Chief of Police.
B. 
Authorities and responsibilities. The Police Department is responsible for enhancing community safety and quality of life through proactive crime prevention, protecting life and property, preserving public peace, upholding the law, and ensuring emergency preparedness. The department undertakes criminal enforcement, traffic enforcement, and civil disposition in accordance with relevant federal, state, and local law. It engages in mutual aid and interagency cooperation as directed by the Police Chief and adheres to state standards for officer certification and training. The Police Chief is the licensing authority for firearms-related matters.
A. 
Established. There shall be a Procurement Department under the supervision of a Procurement Director. The City Manager is hereby designated as the Chief Procurement Officer for all purposes pursuant to this chapter. The Procurement Director shall exercise general authority over the procurement process as set out in the General Laws and such additional responsibilities as may be delegated to the Procurement Director from time to time by the City Manager. Any power, authority, judgment, determination, control, supervision, or discretion that may be exercised by the Procurement Director under this chapter, or any policies and procedures established from time to time by the Procurement Director with the approval of the City Manager, may also be exercised by the City Manager, at the City Manager's election.
B. 
Authorities and responsibilities: The procurement department is responsible for managing the acquisition of goods, services, and construction to ensure that purchases are made legally, transparently, efficiently, and in a way that maximizes public value in accordance with state procurement law. The department approves purchase orders and encumbers funds through the requisition process. It prepares and distributes requests for proposals, invitations for bids, and other solicitations. The department administrates procurement proceedings, issues contract awards, prepares contract documents for execution, and ensures that contracts are reviewed and executed by the appropriate City officials. The department keeps a central file of all executed contracts. The department is also responsible for the disposition of surplus supplies and the acquisition and disposal of real property.
A. 
Established. There shall be a Department of Public Buildings under the supervision of a Director of Public Buildings who is under the supervision of the City Manager and the School Superintendent. The Public Buildings Department is responsible for managing, maintaining, and improving all City and School buildings. The Public Buildings Department shall have the following divisions: Administration and Finance, Construction and Capital Projects, Energy Management, and Operations.
B. 
Administration and Finance Division authorities and responsibilities. The Administration and Finance Division is responsible for budgeting and financial management, procurement, personnel management, and administrative coordination and oversight.
C. 
Construction and Capital Projects Division authorities and responsibilities. The Construction and Capital Projects Division is responsible for planning, managing, and delivering construction and renovation projects, including capital project planning, stakeholder coordination, regulatory compliance, contract and vendor management, and budget and schedule oversight.
D. 
Energy Management Division authorities and responsibilities. The Energy Management Division is responsible for reducing energy consumption and improving sustainability in City and School buildings consistent with the Resilient Watertown Climate and Energy plan, including energy use monitoring and analysis, energy-efficiency project planning and implementation, policy, and program development, and ensuring compliance with relevant federal, state, and local regulations.
E. 
Operations Division authorities and responsibilities. The Operations Division is responsible for the day-to-day management and maintenance of City and School buildings, including custodial services, preventive maintenance, repairs, and snow and ice response.
A. 
Established. There shall be a Public Health Department under the supervision of a Public Health Director, in accordance with G. L. Ch. 111, §§ 26-33.
B. 
Authorities and Responsibilities: The Public Health Department is responsible for the promotion and protection of public health through education, outreach, and enforcement of Board of Health regulations, the state sanitary code, the state environmental code, and other public health regulations. The department investigates complaints, conducts inspections, and issues permits, licenses, and certificates. It advances disease prevention and health promotion by investigating communicable disease outbreaks, coordinating public events like vaccine clinics and blood pressure screenings, and educating the public about health risks and healthy behaviors. The department is responsible for responding to concerns related to rodents and developing and implementing strategies to control the rodent population. It manages the City's animal control program, enforcing relevant state and local regulations, responding to concerns about domestic and wild animals, conducting animal inspections, and issuing rabies quarantines.
A. 
Established. There shall be a Department of Public Works under the supervision of a Director of Public Works. The Department of Public Works is responsible for the planning, construction, maintenance, operation, and improvement of essential public infrastructure systems. The Department of Public Works shall have the following divisions: Administration and Finance, Engineering, Fleet, Parks and Cemeteries, Solid Waste and Recycling, Street Lighting and Wiring, Streets and Sidewalks, Traffic Control, Urban Forestry, and Public Utilities.
B. 
Administration and Finance Division authorities and responsibilities. The Administration and Finance Division is responsible for budgeting and financial management, procurement, personnel management, and administrative coordination and oversight.
C. 
Engineering Division authorities and responsibilities. The Engineering Division is responsible for the planning, design, oversight, and management of public infrastructure projects including streets, sidewalks, water, sewer, and stormwater. It assesses the condition of public infrastructure to develop capital improvement plan recommendations. The division is responsible for reviewing and issuing permits for construction, excavation, and street openings and ensuring compliance with relevant federal, state, and local regulations. It maintains custody of all engineering plans and records for the City.
D. 
Fleet Division authorities and responsibilities. The Fleet Division is responsible for the maintenance, repair, inspection, and disposal of all City-owned vehicles and equipment except for police cruisers. The division maintains asset management, record keeping, and fuel management systems; is responsible for lifecycle and replacement planning and for implementing strategies to reduce fuel use, emissions, and environmental impact; ensures compliance with relevant federal, state, and local regulations; and prepares vehicles for snow and ice operations.
E. 
Parks and Cemeteries Division authorities and responsibilities. The Parks and Cemeteries Division is responsible for the maintenance and care of all public parks and landscaped areas as well as the operation, maintenance, and administration of City-owned cemeteries. The division prepares athletic fields for use and ensures that natural and artificial turf, landscaping, irrigation systems, fencing, lighting, and park and playground surfaces and equipment are clean, safe, and properly maintained. The division is responsible for burial operations, monument and marker oversight, administration and records management, long-term planning of cemetery spaces, and the maintenance of cemetery grounds.
F. 
Solid Waste and Recycling Division authorities and responsibilities. The Solid Waste and Recycling Division is responsible for managing how the City collects, disposes of, and recycles waste in an efficient, environmentally responsible, and legally compliant way. The division develops and manages programs and conducts public outreach to achieve zero waste and sustainability goals.
G. 
Public Utilities Division authorities and responsibilities. The Public Utilities Division is responsible for maintaining and operating the City's essential underground infrastructure - water, sewer, and stormwater drain systems - to ensure reliable service delivery, public health, and environmental protection. The division is responsible for maintaining and operating all elements of these systems including water mains, valves, and hydrants; sewer mains and utility holes; and stormwater catch basins, culverts, and drainage pipes. It is responsible for installing and maintaining water meters and issuing water bills and the City's cross-connection control program, and it supports water quality and stormwater outfall testing as needed.
H. 
Street Lighting and Wiring Division authorities and responsibilities. The Street Lighting and Wiring Division is responsible for the installation, repair, and maintenance of streetlights and lights in parking lots, parks, and other public spaces as well as the City's fire alarm system. The division ensures that all systems comply with electrical codes and safety regulations, and it maintains an inventory and records of all electrical infrastructure.
I. 
Streets and Sidewalks Division authorities and responsibilities. The Streets and Sidewalks Division is responsible for the safe operation of the City's streets, sidewalks, and related infrastructure. It is responsible for maintenance and repair; ensuring sidewalks, curbs, and ramps are safe for pedestrians and compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act; managing pavement markings; sweeping of roads and parking lots; and overseeing the department of public works' snow and ice response.
J. 
Traffic Control Division authorities and responsibilities. The Traffic Control Division is responsible for managing and maintaining systems that regulate the safe and efficient movement of vehicles, pedestrians, and bicyclists. It is responsible for enhancing traffic safety, minimizing congestion, and supporting orderly transportation by installing, maintaining, and improving traffic signal and sign systems.
K. 
Urban Forestry Division authorities and responsibilities. The Urban Forestry Division is responsible for promoting a healthy, safe, and sustainable urban forest that enhances environmental quality, public safety, and community wellbeing. It plans and implements tree planting initiatives to increase canopy cover and biodiversity; proactively and reactively prunes trees to maximize growth and ensure safety; identifies and assesses hazardous trees or limbs and mitigates risk; maintains a tree inventory; and promotes the benefits of a healthy urban tree canopy. The Tree Warden enforces the Public Shade Tree Law as outlined in G. L. Ch. 87.
A. 
Established. There shall be a Recreation Department under the supervision of a Recreation Director.
B. 
Authorities and responsibilities. The Recreation Department is responsible for establishing, coordinating, and implementing community recreation programs for all residents; supporting celebrations, festivals, and public events; and coordinating recreational activities within City parks and facilities, including scheduling and permits.
A. 
Established. There shall be a Senior Services Department under the supervision of a Senior Services Director.
B. 
Authorities and responsibilities. The Senior Services Department is responsible for supporting the health, wellbeing, and independence of seniors in the community by providing programs, services, and resources that help seniors stay active, connected, and informed. The department offers health and wellness programs, organizes social and recreation activities, hosts education workshops and presentations, helps seniors access healthy food options, provides transportation assistance, connects seniors and their families with financial and in-kind support programs, and offers case management services. The department also operates the City's Senior Center.
A. 
Established. There shall be a Skating Rink Department, also known as the John A. Ryan Arena, under the direction of a Skating Rink Manager.
B. 
Authorities and responsibilities. The John A. Ryan Arena provides a well-maintained and accessible ice rink that provides affordable opportunities to learn and develop skills in ice sports and offers a safe and enjoyable space for recreation and competition for City residents.
A. 
Established. There shall be a Treasurer/Collector Department under the supervision of a Treasurer/Collector.
B. 
Authorities and responsibilities. The Treasurer/Collector Department manages the City's cash flow, revenue collection, and debt management. It is responsible for collecting taxes and all other revenue, depositing municipal funds, and managing and reconciling the City's cash holdings and accounts receivable. The department oversees the issuance and repayment of municipal bonds and notes and invests funds to prioritize safety, liquidity, and yield. It manages the City's property and liability insurance, serves as the custodian of the retirement system's funds, maintains tax title accounts, prepares regular financial reports, and ensures compliance with all relevant state regulations. The department also ensures funding for payroll and payment of benefits and processes federal and state tax payments and filings.
The Treasurer/Collector department is also responsible for the administration of the City's public parking program.
A. 
Established. The Watertown Free Public Library is under the supervision of a Library Director. The Library Director shall report to the Board of Library Trustees. The Library Director appoints all Library staff positions
B. 
Authorities and responsibilities. The Watertown Free Public Library provides for the free circulation of books and information technology and resources and for the maintenance of city memorabilia for the community and may receive and hold gifts, bequests, and devices for its use. The library makes available public meeting space and programming for the community.
A. 
Established. The Watertown Public Schools are under the supervision of a Superintendent of Public Schools who shall be appointed by and report to the School Committee. The Superintendent of Public Schools appoints all staff positions in the Watertown Public Schools
B. 
Authorities and responsibilities. The Watertown Public Schools is responsible for operating the public schools and ensuring students receive a free, appropriate public education in compliance with state and federal law. The department provides instruction, student services, and assessments and manages resources and facilities.