July 29, 2001

Commissioner Erik Sten
Portland City Council

Dear Commissioner Sten:

I am writing in order to resign from my position as Water Bureau Administrator effective close of business Friday, July 13.  I request to be on vacation between now and then.  While I have had what I consider to be a good career, the situation is such that the time for this action is now.

Because of the difficulties we have encountered with the billing system, our customers are losing confidence in the Water Bureau.  That cannot be allowed to continue.  I think a change in leadership of the Bureau may help create a dynamic that will turn that around and hasten resolution of the problems.

I know you are aware of the strengths of the personnel of the Water Bureau.  It is a great Bureau and an asset to the City and the community.  My hope is that new leadership will reinvigorate all employees as they continue to work at very high levels of productivity.

 I have enjoyed my tenure with the City, especially the last 10 years as Water Bureau Administrator.  The Bureau did a lot of good work in that period of time, and I was fortunate to have been a part of it.

 Thank you.

 Sincerely,

Michael Rosenberger