TITLE
Recommendation to adopt resolution approving an exception to the 180-day waiting period for Public Agencies pursuant to Government Code 7522.56 and 21224, to hire Ms. Cathy Pingol for a limited duration to work in the Financial Management Department. (Citywide)
DISCUSSION
On January 1, 2013, the Public Employees' Pension Reform Act added Section 7522.56 to the Government Code, which set forth post-retirement employment requirements applicable to all retirees who are employed by CalPERS employers on or after January 1, 2013. This change added the requirement that all retirees must wait 180 days after their retirement date before they are eligible to begin post-retirement employment with a CalPERS agency. An exception to the 180-day wait period can be made if a public agency certifies the nature of the employment and that the appointment is necessary to fill a critically needed position before 180 days have passed. The appointment must be approved by the governing body of the employer in a public meeting and may not be placed on a consent calendar.
The Financial Management Department requests City Council approval to hire Ms. Cathy Pingol, former Senior Accountant, as a Retired Annuitant - Administrative Support NC, effective July 15, 2020, for a limited duration, to assist with Tidelands accounting activities that have gotten behind due to vacancies and COVID-19. Ms. Pingol’s extra help is needed to prepare financial reports on Tidelands funds and to perform reconciliations of Tidelands revenues, expenses, and debt activity as well as other backlogged work, through the end of September 2020. In addition, she will train and review work from other staff regarding Tidelands Funds reporting. Since Ms. Pingol’s proposed start date is less than the required 180-day waiting period post retirement, City Council approval to hire Ms. Pingol is required. The approved rate of pay for the limited duration is $46.218 per hour. This amount represents the hourly rate she received upon retirement and within the minimum and maximum paid to other employees performing comparable duties as listed in the City of Long Beach’s (City) publicly available pay schedule. Ms. Pingol has over 24 years of accounting experience with the City and has specialized skills to handle the most complex accounting assignments.
This matter was reviewed by Principal Deputy City Attorney Gary J. Anderson and Budget Manager Grace H. Yoon on June 30, 2020.
TIMING CONSIDERATIONS
City Council action is requested on July 14, 2020, to ensure minimal impact to Tidelands accounting operations in the Financial Management Department.
FISCAL IMPACT
The total FY 20 fully loaded cost for this position will not exceed $22,506 (480 hours during July through September at salary rate of $46.218 plus Medicare). These costs will be funded out of the Tidelands Operating Fund Group in the Financial Management Department and will be absorbed within current budgeted appropriations. This recommendation has no staffing impact beyond the normal budgeted scope of duties and is consistent with existing City Council priorities. There is no local job impact associated with this recommendation.
SUGGESTED ACTION
Approve recommendation.
BODY
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Respectfully Submitted,
ALEJANDRINA BASQUEZ
HUMAN RESOURCES DIRECTOR
APPROVED:
THOMAS B. MODICA
CITY MANAGER