Notwithstanding the fact that this is an uncommon request as requests to fund positions typically coincide with the onset of the fiscal year, I believe good reason currently exists to amend the Classification and Pay Plan at this time to provide for the following positions: Deputy Police Chief, Utilities Engineer and Assistant City Manager through the duration of the current fiscal year.
The Deputy Police Chief position is not a new position as it has been vacant since May 26, 2017 in lieu of other spending priorities. As a result of current operational issues as it relates to the administration of the department, I believe it to be appropriate to fill the position of Deputy Police Chief. The position is classified as a Grade 42 with an annual salary range of $73,674 to $94,661 dependent on experience and qualifications.
Secondly, based on the amount of utility work that the city is tasked with along with the amount currently outsourced, I would like to create a Utilities Engineer position. The position would replace the current construction engineering inspection manager position which has recently become vacant. The responsibilities would include work on the city’s utility system as well as management of construction inspection services projects and personnel. The current position of construction engineering inspection manager is a Grade 29 position with a maximum salary of $68,702. Based on the educational requirements associated with the Utilities Engineer position, I am proposing to place the position at a Grade 32 with an annual salary range of $55,500 to $64,500 dependent on experience and qualifications.
Lastly, as you may recall, during my annual performance evaluation at your regular meeting on May 19, 2020, it was the consensus of Council that there was a need for an Assistant City Manager to assist me with current city projects. Based on variables impacting the performance of several departments as well as current projects and initiatives, I believe that it is prudent to fill the position prior to the onset of the 2020-2021 Fiscal Year. This position would take the place of the Assistant to the City Manager position that was phased out of the budget in 2017 and would be classified as a Grade 42 with an annual salary range of $73,674 to $94,661 dependent on experience and qualifications.
In respect to your consideration of this matter, I have worked with the Finance Director to identify the sources of funding to support the request and a copy of the proposed budget amendments are attached for your review.