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 Joanne K. Dolan for a limited duration to work in the Fire Department. (Citywide)
DISCUSSION
On January 1, 2013, the Public Employees' Pension Reform Act added Sections 7522.56 and 21224 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 Fire Department requests City Council approval to hire Joanne K. Dolan, current Emergency Medical Education Coordinator, effective August 19, 2019, for a limited duration, to oversee several critical transitional and administrative processes for Emergency Medical Services within the Fire Department. Since Ms. Dolan’s proposed start date is less than the required 180-day waiting period post retirement, City Council approval to hire Ms. Dolan is required. The proposed rate of pay will be $62.828 per hour. This amount represents the compensation currently being paid to her, minus the loaded cost. Ms. Dolan is qualified to oversee these projects and has acquired the relevant experience and specialized skills from her employment with the City as the Emergency Medical Services Coordinator overseeing the Emergency Medical Services Education team. She has over 20 years of service with the Fire Department.
This matter was reviewed by Principal Deputy City Attorney Gary J. Anderson on July 15, 2019 and by Budget Analysis Officer Julissa José-Murray on July 24, 2019.
TIMING CONSIDERATIONS
City Council action is requested on August 13, 2019, to ensure the Fire Department is able to continue their emergency medical education and quality assurance programs continue during the selection process of a new Emergency Medical Education Coordinator and Medical Director.
FISCAL IMPACT
The total annual cost will not exceed $60,315 (960 hours at $62.828/hour) and will be funded from salary savings from the Emergency Medical Education Coordinator vacancy. The cost is budgeted in the General Fund Group in Fire Department. 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, DIRECTOR
DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN RESOURCES
APPROVED:
PATRICK H. WEST
CITY MANAGER