On February 27, 2003, City leaders introduced SPIRIT, the organizational values employees use to guide their decisions. SPIRIT stands for Service, People, Integrity, Respect, Innovation and Teamwork. SPIRIT is used internally to reinforce these core values and keep them at the forefront with City employees.
Service
Deliver exceptional customer service. Address the concerns and issues of our customers, both internal and external. Exhibit ongoing, courteous, tactful, and respectful customer service, respecting the diversity of customers' views, skills, background, and experience. Take ownership, initiative, and is sensitive to the customer’s needs and responsive to each customer. Convey a professional demeanor while performing duties.
People
Recognize that we are all about people – the community and staff. We strive to bring out every person’s best and show care for others. We value everyone’s thoughts and contributions. We value what makes each person unique and how that rich variety of life experience strengthens our organization and community. People are key to who we are and what we do.
Integrity
Demonstrate in all actions a high level of ethical behavior and a commitment to do the right thing. Display courage and honesty with themselves and others. Acknowledge each person’s unique talents, ideas, and beliefs. Embody personal accountability by taking responsibility for their actions and ownership for their behavior and interactions with others.
Respect
Honor and welcome the variety of thoughts, opinions and experiences each person brings. Accept each person for who they are; build trust, safety, and wellbeing. Respect for self and respect for others in words, actions, and deeds at all times. Act professionally in all aspects of work including observable behaviors, interpersonal and communication skills, and attitude. Hold each of us accountable and responsible for our individual job functions and assigned duties.
Innovation
Embrace continuous improvement mindset and is open to change. Understand customer’s needs and expectations and seek opportunities to improve the customer (internal and external) experience. Take calculated risks and learn from failures. Display an ability to plan for successful implementation of new ideas. Continue to develop skills and stay current with industry standards and innovation.
Teamwork
Value teamwork and support the efforts of fellow employees both individually and collectively. Foster a participatory organizational climate that is open, positive, reinforcing, and supportive. Build trust through open, honest, and respectful interactions. Demonstrate the ability to have authentic, transparent conversations in order to constructively work through conflict. Is approachable and exhibit cooperation, collaboration, patience, fairness, and consistency in interactions.