The Keizer City Council made significant strides in enhancing public records management during their recent meeting on August 16, 2025. The council unanimously approved two resolutions aimed at improving the accessibility and security of city records, a move that promises to benefit both residents and city staff.

The first resolution authorizes the city manager to terminate existing 457(b) plans with Nationwide and Core Bridal, streamlining the city’s financial management. This decision reflects the council's commitment to optimizing city resources for better service delivery.

More notably, the council adopted a resolution to enter into an agreement with the Oregon Secretary of State for electronic records management services. This partnership will facilitate the transition to a new electronic records management system, which is expected to enhance transparency, security, and compliance with public records laws. City officials emphasized that this upgrade will allow for better access to city records for both staff and the public, ensuring that important information is preserved and managed effectively.

The city will incur a modest ongoing cost of $388 per month for the Oregon Records Management Solution (ORMS) subscription, which is already included in the approved budget for the year. The Secretary of State will provide consulting services at no cost, making this initiative both financially feasible and beneficial for the community.

Council members expressed enthusiasm for the changes, highlighting the importance of safeguarding the city’s history and improving public access to information. The unanimous support for these resolutions underscores a collective commitment to enhancing city operations and serving the community more effectively.

As the city moves forward with these initiatives, residents can expect a more efficient and transparent records management system that aligns with broader goals of accountability and public service.