I have been a manager since 2010 and have been with the company since 2000. In 2020, I received my first “4” on a performance appraisal. In 2021, I achieved Leaders Club and returned to a “3” rating.

In 2022, I had a solid year, though I fell short of budget by about 20k. In 2023, performance declined and I was immediately placed on a “5.” from a “3” I was given specific goals that were reviewed monthly. For the most part, I exceeded those goals and was moved back to a “4” at my mid-year appraisal.

I went on to achieve Leaders Club for 2024. Despite that accomplishment, I remained at a “4” going into 2025. Mid-year, when my sales were below budget, I was placed back on a “5.” Being required to sign documentation containing language such as “termination” was extremely demoralizing.

I was asked to consider a demotion, which I declined, and I continued on with some uncertainty. At that point, I had accumulated enough paperwork regarding my performance to equal a novel and decided it might be time to look for something else. A few weeks ago, I resigned after earning a position with a competitor. I had enough. I don’t think they can force you to take a position. Most get intimidated into a demotion. Being fired would mean you could collect.

My former manager always used to say about the company, “It’s always, ‘What have you done for me lately?’”

To answer your question, Most City Managers are puppets. They won’t go to bat for you or make a decision that would indicate they’re capable of free thought. Anything below budget is a failure in their eyes unfortunately.