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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2001 EOCC MinutesMINUTES Elected Officers Compensation Commission Tuesday, February 13, 2001 - 12:00 noon Tenth Floor City Hall Call To Order Dr. Hogan called the meeting to order at 12:33 p.m. Roll Call Boardmember Roberta Alberts Boardmember Joseph DeRose Boardmember Elliott Glicksman Boardmember Joseph DeRose Boardmember Cyril McGuire Boardmember Aaron Jenkins - absent Others Present Jack Roberts, Law Department Tina Gallante, Council Staff Pagel of 3 Approval of Agenda The agenda was approved by consensus. Business: Election of Officers for 2001 Session Chairperson / Vice -Chairperson DR. HOGAN NOMINATED ELLIOTT GLICKSMAN AS CHAIRPERSON FOR THE YEAR 2001. MS. ALBERT SECONDED THE MOTION. MOTION CARRIED 5-0. DR. HOGAN NOMINATED MS. ALBERT AS VICE CHAIRPERSON FOR THE YEAR 2001. MR. GLICKSMAN SECONDED THE MOTION. MOTION CARRIED 5-0. Determining EOCC Meeting Schedule The Commission reviewed their schedules and tentatively developed the following schedule: • Tuesday, February 27, 2001, at 6:30 p.m. • Tuesday, March 6, 2001, at 6:30 p.m. • Tuesday, March 13, 2001, at 6:30 p.m. • Tuesday, March 20, 2001, at 6:30 p.m. Meeting of February 27 will be to invite Finance Department representatives. Meeting of March 6 to invite Councilmembers, Mayor, and City Clerk. Reports, Presentations, Commission Questions and Discussions None. Page 2 of 3 Old Business None. New Business None. Commission Member Comments None. Items Under Susuension of the Rules None. Public Comments No public comment was received. Adiournment The meeting was adjourned at 12:57 p.m. Respectfully Submitted, Tina M. Gallante Senior Legislative Assistant Lansing City Council Approved by the Commission on Appropriate documents attached to original set of minutes. Page 3 of 3 MINUTES Elected Officers Compensation Commission Committee of the Whole Tuesday, February 27, 2001 - 12:00 noon Tenth Floor City Hall Call To Order The meeting was called to order at 12:15 by Vice Chair Albert. There not being a quorum present, the Vice chair announced that those members present would meet as a Committee of the Whole and receive information but take no action. Roll Call Boardmember Roberta Albert Boardmember Joseph DeRose - absent Boardmember Elliott Glicksman - absent Boardmember Fredrick Hogan - absent Boardmember Aaron Jenkins Boardmember Cyril McGuire Page 1 of 5 Others Present Robert Swanson, Finance Department Director Jack Roberts, Law Department Tina Gallante, Council Staff Approval of Agenda The Committee agreed on the agenda. Approval of Agenda No minutes were acted upon. Business: Interview with Council Vice President Larry Mever Council Vice President Larry Meyer appeared before the Commission on behalf of the full Council and spoke on Council's view of the compensation for Councilmembers. Upon review of the Commission's last action taken, the Council would make, as a suggestion to this Commission, that not greater than a $500 increase to their current salary. This is 2.6 percent across the board for FY2002. Both the President and Vice President are paid slightly more due to those positions. The Council feels that the adjustments made two years ago reflect reasonable compensation for their positions and if this body recommends an increase that it should be at or below inflation. The figure of 2.6 percent would be adequate. He briefly reviewed other employment that some Councilmembers have. Mr. Roberts questioned if the Council was asking for something similar for the next year, FY 2003? Council Vice President Meyer indicated it would be in his views that the principle of compensation, to be at or below inflation, is applicable for both years. The fringe benefit package, which includes full medical benefits, dental, life insurance coverage, and pension retirement benefits are satisfactory. Mr. Swanson pointed out to the Commission that part of the contract for this past year for other City units receiving employee retirement benefits was the retirement factor being raised from 2.5 to 2.75 percent and that the Commission may consider this in its deliberation. Secondly, under Page 2 of 5 recent contracts, post retirement health care is now available, but would not invest in that until after 15 years but the employees pay into the system whether they are here 15 years or not. Presentation by Finance Department Director, Robert Swanson Mr. Swanson appeared before the Commission to speak on the City's financial condition. He presented charts and graphics about the City's General Fund revenues. He also provided written information and comparative data on salaries and benefits. Copies of the written material presented are attached to these minutes. Vice Chair Albert questioned if recommended, can we afford a 2.6 percent, or approximately $500.00 increase in pay for the elected officials. Mr. Swanson reported that given the amount of elected officials this City has, yes, they could handle the increase. He submitted documentation reflecting current wage comparisons for elected officials. He reviewed his written report showing City of Lansing employee wage increases. Most of these contracts will run through this Commission's two year, although the FOP contracts will expire this June. Vice Chair Albert questioned if it is appropriate for this body to consider wage increases and compensation for the two years. Mr. Swanson reported that it would be appropriate. Mr. Swanson referred to the submitted information about the compensation for the positions and noted that it is reflective of top of the scale pays but, not necessarily what the position receives. Mr. Roberts commented that two years ago when the Commission met one of the philosophies considered was that although previously the Mayor had not been one of the highest paid City officials that he should be. Mr. Swanson reported that four City Department Directors are currently making more than the Mayor. Beginning February 1 of next year, these salaries will go up. Vice Chair Albert questioned how the Commission could ensure that the Mayor make more or the same as some of the department heads. Page 3 of 5 The Commission held a discussion with respect to the pay of the Mayor compared to the City department heads. There was also discussion on the past history of other compensation decisions. Council's increase over the past two years was 36 percent and the Mayor's was 12 percent; however, the amounts were different. Mr. Swanson pointed out that because of substantial items that took place in negotiations, health care, in all but one of the nine bargaining units went from Blue Cross to Community Blue. This was a saving to the City. The change in some of the units and for department directors, for the opt -out for health care was raised from $1,500 to $1,800. Reports, Presentations, Commission Questions and Discussions Next meeting date on March 13, 2001, at 11:30 a.m. The Mayor and City Clerk will be invited to attend. Old Business None. New Business None. Commission Member Comments None. Items Under Suspension of the Rules None. Public Comments No public comment was received. Page 4 of 5 Adiournment The meeting was adjourned at 1:48 p.m. Respectfully Submitted, Tina M. Gallante Senior Legislative Assistant Lansing City Council Approved by the Committee on Appropriate documents attached to original set of minutes. Page 5 of 5 MINUTES Elected Officers Compensation Commission Tuesday, March 13, 2001 - 11:30 a.m. Tenth Floor City Hall Call To Order The meeting was called to order at 12:10 by Chair Glicksman Roll Call Boardmember Roberta Albert Boardmember Joseph DeRose - absent Boardmember Elliott Glicksman Boardmember Fredrick Hogan Boardmember Aaron Jenkins - absent Boardmember Cyril McGuire Others Present David Wiener, Mayor's Office Sharon Bommarito, Personnel Department Jack Roberts, Law Department Tina Gallante, Council Staff Page 1 of 5 Approval of Agenda The agenda was approved by consensus. Communications Current Executive Plan Salaries documentation submitted. Received and placed on file. Business: Approval of Minutes COMMISSIONER ALBERT MOVED TO APPROVE THE MINUTES OF THE FEBRUARY 13, 2001, MEETING AS SUBMITTED. MOTION CARRIED 4-0. Interview with Mavor David Hollister Mr. Wiener, Executive Assistant to the Mayor, appeared before the Commission on behalf of Mayor Hollister who could not attend the meeting. Mr. Wiener expressed that the Mayor has appreciated the Commission's wisdom in the past in determining that the Chief Executive Officer's position should be the highest paying position in the City. Therefore, he would suggest the Mayor's position be compensated at $100,000 to make the Mayor's salary higher than the department heads at this time and it be increased to $ 105,000.00 when the department heads are scheduled to have a cost of living adjustment. Chair Glicksman questioned whether the Mayor's position was to follow the policy that the Mayor's position should be the highest paying person in the City. Mr. Wiener indicated yes. Cost of living is 3 percent, or slightly higher. Chair Glicksman questioned if the dollar amount suggested was implemented, given the fact there is a range of salary for the department heads, will the Mayor remain the highest paid? Ms. Bommarito reviewed the classifications of City positions and how jobs are evaluated. They work with the Hay Classification Levels. The level that Mr. Wiener suggested would keep pace for the next two years. Page 2 of 5 Member McGuire commented he feels it is this Commission's responsibility to consider its decision for the Mayor based on his performance in office. Interview with Citv Clerk Stephen Dougan Mr. Dougan appeared before the Committee with respect to his appointment to the City Clerk position. He submitted a letter to the Commission, dated March 12, 2001, summarizing his opinion on the position. His principal recommendation is that no adjustment be made for this position until January 1, 2002. However, he would ask the commission to consider the position itself in comparison with the other wages of City Clerks within Michigan and consider a percentage increase for his predecessor. The Commission received information relative to Mr. Dougan unique circumstances as City Clerk, his pension, and his salary this year. Mr. Dougan said he is committed not to run for the Clerk's Office but would reconsider. Reports, Presentations, Commission Questions and Discussions None. Old Business Mr. Roberts commented after the last meeting, he spoke with Mr. Swanson about the one Councilmember who is in the City's Defined Benefit Plan, because of the length of time he has been with the City. Mr. Swanson reported on the fringe benefit retirement factor, there had been an increase in this factor for other City employee in a like -type of position from 2.7 to 2.75. With the change in the retirement factor, there was also a commensurate change for salary contributed from those eligible individuals from 3 percent to 3.25 percent. The Commission may include this in their determination if they wish. The Commission then discussed the scheduling for the next meeting. Page 3 of 5 It was a consensus that the next meeting will be on Tuesday, March 20, 2001, at 6:30 p.m. and Tuesday, March 27, 2001, at 6:30 p.m., if necessary. New Business None. Commission Member Comments The Commission held a general discussion with respect to past determinations and current circumstances in the elected positions, specifically, the Mayor and City Clerk. The salary of the Mayor was discussed and ensuring that pay rate is increased to reflect the top - paying position of the City, and keeping it at that for some time. Mr. Roberts commented that the Commission under their charge might only make a prospective determination and not any retroactive compensation. It was a consensus that a graph would be provided in the mail to each member to assist him or her in preparation for the next meeting. Items Under Susuension of the Rules None. Public Comments No public comment was received. Adiournment The meeting was adjourned at 12:58 p.m. Respectfully Submitted, Tina M. Gallante Senior Legislative Assistant Page 4 of 5 Lansing City Council Approved by the Committee on Appropriate documents attached to original set of minutes. Page 5 of 5 MINUTES Elected Officers Compensation Commission Tuesday, March 20, 2001 - 6:30 p.m. Tenth Floor City Hall Call To Order The meeting was called to order at 6:40 p.m. by Chair Glicksman Roll Call Boardmember Roberta Albert Boardmember Joseph DeRose - absent Boardmember Elliott Glicksman Boardmember Fredrick Hogan Boardmember Aaron Jenkins - absent Boardmember Cyril McGuire Others Present Jack Roberts, Law Department Bob Swanson, Finance Department Director Tina Gallante, Council Staff Page 1 of 4 Approval of Agenda The agenda was approved by consensus. Communications No new communications. Business: Approval of Minutes COMMISSIONER ALBERT MOVED TO APPROVE THE MINUTES OF THE MARCH 13, 2001, MEETING AS SUBMITTED. MOTION CARRIED 4-0. Reports, Presentations, Commission Questions and Discussions None. Old Business Mr. Roberts referred to the last meeting with respect to Mr. Wiener's visit. Specifically, he referred to the department heads' increases that take effect in February. If there was a change in the elected officers' salary, July 1 is the preferred date because the City's fiscal year starts then. If the Commission increase salary compensation before the start of the new fiscal year, it will conflict with the City's established existing budget. New Business The Commission discussed whether the dates under consideration for the increase in the Mayor's salary would keep him the highest paid employee after possible future department head raises. There was further discussion about the Mayor's salary and the timing of increases to it. The following was decided upon to assume the Mayor is and remains the City's highest paid administrator: Page 2 of 4 $102,000 effective July 1, 2001 $107,000 effective July 1, 2002 After considerable discussion and deliberation, the Commission decided upon the following salary increases for all the City's elected officials: Elected Officials Mayor Clerk Current $95,000 $67,900 Council President $21,000 Council Vice $19,750 President Council Member $19,000 MOTION CARRIED 4-0. Effective July 1, 2001 $102,000 $ 68,500 $ 21,600 $ 20,350 $ 19,600 Effective July 1, 2002 $107,000 $ 69,100 $ 22,200 $ 20,950 $ 20,200 Fringe benefits were discussed in detail and consideration given to what other City employees receive under bargaining. It was agreed that the fringe benefits remain as they are except with the following changes: Health Care Provided with Community Blue (PPO) as base plan and the right to choose alternatives of PHP, Blue Care Network, or opt -out incentive at $1,500.00 Retirement Defined Benefit Retirement Svstem From 2.5 to 2.75 factor From 3 percent to 3.25 percent of salary as annual contribution Defined Contribution (For all those not in the ERS) To offer a one time option to choose whether to receive post retirement health care base on 3.25 percent annual contribution with 15 years to vest and loss of contribution if termination of employment before vesting. Election must be made on or before close of business on June 29, 2001. Page 3 of 4 City's 6 percent annual contribution to remain unchanged Dental Unchanged. Life Insurance Unchanged. Mr. Roberts reported that he would reduce these matters to written text for presentation and consideration for final action at the Commission's next meeting. Commission Member Comments Next meeting March 27, 2001. Items Under Suspension of the Rules None. Public Comments No public comment was received. Adiournment The meeting was adjourned at 8:45 p.m. Respectfully Submitted, Tina M. Gallante Senior Legislative Assistant Lansing City Council Approved by the Committee on Appropriate documents attached to original set of minutes. Page 4 of 4 MINUTES Elected Officers Compensation Commission Tuesday, March 26, 2001 - 6:30 p.m. Tenth Floor City Hall Call To Order The meeting was called to order at 6:58 p.m. by Chair Glicksman Roll Call Boardmember Roberta Albert Boardmember Joseph DeRose Boardmember Elliot Glicksman Boardmember Frederick Hogan Boardmember Aaron Jenkins - absent Boardmember Cyril McGuire Others Present Jack Roberts, Law Department Tina Gallante, Council Staff Approval of Agenda The agenda was approved by consensus. Page 1 of 4 Communications • Revised Proposed Salary Determination. • Attached Schedule of changes for Elected Officers Fringe Benefits. Business: Approval of Minutes COMMISSIONER MCGUIRE MOVED TO APPROVE THE MINUTES OF THE MARCH 20, 2001, MEETING AS SUBMITTED. MOTION CARRIED 5-0. Reports, Presentations, Commission Questions and Discussions Review of draft salary determination with fringe benefit schedule of changes. Old Business Mr. Roberts submitted the written draft of compensation determinations as agreed to by the Commission at the last meeting. He also submitted the changes in fringe benefits schedule. He specifically spoke to the health insurance opt -out reimbursement eligibility. He asked the commission to consider setting the opt -out reimbursement at $1,800 rather than the $1,500 as previously established. $1,800 is consistent with what the City is currently providing to exempt City employees and department heads. Mr. Roberts also spoke about record keeping and the fact that a mechanism for final approval of the minutes of this last meeting needs to be established. He suggested allowing the Chair, or designated member, to approve the minutes, or as an alternative, the minutes are deemed approved automatically if, after they are sent out to the Commission members, there is no objection heard after date certain. COMMISSIONER ALBERT MOVED TO CHANGE THE MEDICAL INSURANCE OPT -OUT PAYMENT FROM $1,500 TO $1,800 AS NOTED. COMMISSIONER MCGUIRE SECONDED THE MOTION. MOTION CARRIED 5-0. COMMISSIONER MCGUIRE MOVED TO APPROVE AND ADOPT BY SIGNING THE SALARY DETERMINATIONS LETTER AND SCHEDULE AS Page 2 of 4 SUBMITTED AND TO DIRECT THAT IT BE TRANSMITTED TO THE CITY CLERK FOR FILING. MOTION CARRIED 5-0. New Business Chair Glicksman suggested a method for approval of the minutes of this final meeting. The Commission members expressed their agreement with the suggestion. CHAIR GLICKSMAN MOVED THAT THE MINUTES OF THIS MEETING BE CONSIDERED APPROVED AND ADOPTED IF THE RECORDING SECRETARY HAS NOT RECEIVED OBJECTION, IN WRITING, TO THEM WITHIN SEVEN DAYS OF SENDING THEM OUT TO THE COMMISSION MEMBERS. MOTION CARRIED 5-0. Commission Member Comments The Commission members complimented each other for their civility and professionalism in working with each other and reaching their conclusions. Items Under Suspension of the Rules None. Public Comments No public comment was received. Adiournment The meeting was adjourned at 7:23 p.m. Respectfully Submitted, Tina M. Gallante Senior Legislative Assistant Page 3 of 4 Lansing City Council Approved by the Committee on Appropriate documents attached to original set of minutes. Page 4 of 4