Some officials in Aurora are considering changes to a rule that requires city department leaders to live in Aurora. Michele Clark, the city’s chief human resources officer, argues that the rule limits the pool of applicants and reduces staff diversity. In contrast, Alderman Shweta Baid of the 10th Ward believes that city leaders should be familiar with Aurora.
The proposed change, previously reviewed by the City Council in August, would let department heads reside in nearby areas. The City Council’s Rules, Administration, and Procedures Committee debated removing the residency requirement entirely. This would amend the proposal, which originally required department heads to live in adjacent municipalities.
“I don’t think your address dictates how committed or invested you are into the community,” Clark stated.
The committee postponed the decision, planning to revisit it on October 20. Supporters of eliminating the requirement suggest making residency a preferred qualification on job applications. This proposal goes beyond a September ordinance allowing police and fire chiefs to live within 15 miles of Aurora, not strictly within the city.
Alderman Daniel Barreiro of the 1st Ward supports some residency requirement for public safety officials but not for other departments. He notes that the city has seen high turnover rates in department head positions. Barreiro recalls a significant number of employees leaving when Aurora previously removed the residency rule for full-time staff. He believes removing it entirely could help address turnover issues and attract specialized talent.
Currently, 53% of department heads and 29% of city employees live in Aurora. Clark suggests that a wider search could bring in more qualified candidates as 66% of applicants for city jobs this year live outside of Aurora. She emphasizes the need to have the broadest possible candidate pool for specialized roles.
Alderman Carl Franco of the 5th Ward also supports removing the residency requirement, describing it as outdated. He believes the change could assist in filling vacancies, such as the fire chief role, by removing obstacles for qualified candidates.
However, Baid introduced an amendment requiring department heads to have two years of experience working with Aurora, arguing it would help staff rise through the city ranks. She stressed the importance of leaders having a connection to the city.
“I strongly feel people who are going for leadership positions should have some kind of connection to the city,” Baid said. “This is one way we can ensure they are familiar with the culture and know the city.”
During a committee meeting, Alderman Ted Mesiacos of the 3rd Ward agreed, suggesting a need for leadership’s local presence. While proponents of the rule argue for improved emergency responses and safety through closer residential proximity, Clark worries Baid’s amendment may hinder diversity by limiting hiring from within current city employees. With 25% of the city’s workforce being women, compared to 47% nationally, Clark highlights the imbalance. The city has debated residency rules since 1993, often linking them to performance and safety concerns.
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