§ 19. Interference in administrative service.

Except as otherwise provided in this charter, neither the council nor any of its members shall interfere with the execution by the city manager of his powers and duties, or order, directly or indirectly, the appointment by the city manager of any person to an office or employment or his removal therefrom. Except for purposes of inquiry, the council and its members shall deal with the administrative service under the city manager solely through the city manager, and neither the council nor any member thereof shall give orders to any subordinate of the city manager, either publicly or privately.

Nothing in this section shall be construed, however, as prohibiting the council while in open session from fully and freely discussing with or suggesting to the city manager anything pertaining to city affairs or the interests of the city.