TITLE
Recommendation to authorize City Manager, or designee, to execute all necessary documents and technical amendments with the Department of Veterans Affairs to participate in the federal Non-Paid Work Experience program for a three-year period, from July 1, 2016 through June 30, 2019. (Citywide)
DISCUSSION
On December 15, 2014, the City of Long Beach (City) was awarded $3,000,000 in funding from the Bloomberg Philanthropies to develop and implement a City Innovation Team (i-team), to research and develop strategies that improve local economic development. As part of the initial research, including the Citymart open procurement challenge process, City departments identified the need for Business Navigators to serve as liaisons between the City and entrepreneurs to help navigate the business startup process. The i-team has identified the VA’s NPWE program as a potential source of non-paid staffing to pilot the Business Navigators program and to address this need.
The NPWE program provides service-connected veterans with the opportunity to gain quality work experience in a governmental organization. NPWE program participants benefit from the program by establishing meaningful employment history and receiving a stipend from the VA for up to six months of service in a governmental organization. Host organizations benefit from the knowledge, skills and work ethic of experienced military professionals at no cost. As part of the NPWE, the VA provides careful screening of program participants, orientation involving a VA counselor, and ongoing communication between the VA and the host organization. Currently, there are 18 governmental agencies in Southern California participating in this innovative program.
The City Manager is requesting authority to execute necessary documents to allow for the placement of qualifying veterans in the City. Veterans will work with the Department of Economic and Property Development (EPD) and the i-team to develop the Business Navigators program and to comply with NPWE reporting requirements. The VA requires that participating governmental agencies assure compliance with equal opportunity laws, agree to on-the-job training, provide monthly progress reports, and certify work completed on a monthly basis.
This matter was reviewed by Deputy City Attorney Amy R. Webber on July 1, 2016 and by Revenue Management Officer Julissa José-Murray on July 10, 2016.
TIMING CONSIDERATIONS
City Council action is requested on August 2, 2016, to begin the Business Navigators pilot program in Fall 2016. The VA requires all documents to be executed before veterans begin work on behalf of the City.
FISCAL IMPACT
There is no fiscal impact to the City for participation in the NPWE program. Veterans will receive a monthly stipend directly from the VA while working for the City. Approval of this recommendation will provide continued support to the local economy.
SUGGESTED ACTION
Approve recommendation.
Respectfully Submitted,
PATRICK H. WEST
CITY MANAGER