HomeMy WebLinkAbout01-16-2025 Personnel Board Meeting MinutesCITY OF FAIRHOPE
Personnel Board Meeting
7:00 A.M. January 16th, 2025
161 N Section Street
Fairhope, AL 36532
Present were:
Members: Chairman Genie Frazier; Terry Ullrich; Rob Stankoski; Jake O’Neil; Safety Coordinator John Smith; Human Resource Director Hannah Noonan; Councilman Kevin Boone
The meeting was called to order at 7:00 a.m.
The minutes of the December 12th meeting were approved
The department is currently working on several initiatives aimed at improving employee retention, recruitment, and organizational efficiency. One key focus is addressing workplace injuries
and insurance claims, with a significant injury occurring in 2023 resulting in an extended absence. This year, the department has seen a reduction in total incidents, from 61 in 2023
to 25 in 2024, including one major claim ($130,000). The lesson learned from this experience is the need for increased situational awareness in hazardous areas. In terms of recruitment
and retention, there has been difficulty filling certain positions. A proposal is being considered to reclassify certain positionsto lower grades. This strategy would lead to budget
savings and create earlier apprenticeship and training opportunities for existing employees, improving internal growth and retention. The department is seeking blanket council approval
for position downgrades to streamline this process, aligning with the city’s budget and pay structure plan.
Additionally, the department is expanding its Summer Internship Program, targeting high school seniors and introducing them to trades in departments like Public Utilities, Public Works,
HVAC, and Building Maintenance. This expansion is in line with the new vocational preparatory program. The department is also planning a salary study, currently in its early stages,
with consultants being considered for the project, expected to be completed in time for the next budget year.
Employee retention remains strong, with low vacancy rates and strong internal promotions. Recent retirements, including several 30-year employees, have created additional promotion opportunities.
However, the department is facing competition from Riviera, which has faster decision-making capabilities, particularly for public safety positions. Board member recruitment is also
ongoing, with three scheduled phone calls this Friday to potential candidates. The focus is on candidates who understand the gravity of board decisions, as well as the level of confidentiality
required. The department is aiming for a diverse board while ensuring alignment on core principles.
Looking ahead, the next steps include preparing a detailed proposal for position reclassification authorization for the next council meeting, continuing with the summer internship program
planning, moving forward with the salary study preparation, conducting calls with potential board members, and considering text reminders for council members about upcoming meetings
and commitments.
Board members made final comments.
A motion was made, and a second to adjourn.
Sincerely,
Jake O’Neil
Personnel Board Secretary