Resolution No. 2016-008RESOLUTION NO. 2016-08
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
VERNON APPOINTING DEREK WIESKE TO SERVE AS THE
DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC WORKS, WATER AND DEVELOPMENT
SERVICES OF THE CITY OF VERNON AND RATIFYING THE
EXECUTION OF A RELATED AT -WILL EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT
WHEREAS, on September 29, 2015, following the announcement of
the December 27, 2015, retirement of the former Director of Public
Works, Water and Development Services, the City Council of the City of
Vernon authorized the Interim Director of Human Resources to conduct
the recruitment process to fill the anticipated vacancy; and
WHEREAS, the Human Resources Department created an executive
recruitment brochure for the position (attached hereto as Exhibit A)
and conducted a broad and extensive recruitment that included multiple
screenings and interviews of numerous applicants; and
WHEREAS, the City Council conducted final interviews of the
two highest ranking candidates at a special City Council meeting on
December 15, 2015; and
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Vernon determined
Derek Wieske ("Wieske") to be the most qualified candidate and directed
the City Administrator to pursue the employment of Wieske as the
Director of Public Works, Water and Development Services of the City of
Vernon, subject to approval of an at -will employment agreement and
successful completion of the pre -employment process; and
WHEREAS, the City and Wieske have executed an At -Will
Employment Agreement (the "Agreement"), effective February 22, 2016,
subject to the ratification by the City Council; and
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Vernon desires to
appoint Wieske to serve as the Director of Public Works, Water and
Development Services and approve the Agreement and ratify the
execution thereof.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF VERNON AS FOLLOWS:
SECTION 1: The City Council of the City of Vernon hereby
finds and determines that the above recitals are true and correct.
SECTION 2: The City Council of the City of Vernon finds
that this action is exempt under the California Environmental Quality
Act (CEQA), in accordance with Section 15061(b)(3), the general rule
that CEQA only applies to projects that may have an effect on the
environment.
SECTION 3: The City Council of the City of Vernon hereby
appoints Derek Wieske to serve as the Director of Public Works, Water
and Development Services of the City of Vernon, effective February 22,
2016.
SECTION 4: The City Council of the City of Vernon hereby
approves and ratifies the execution of the At -Will Employment
Agreement with Wieske to serve as Director of Public Works, Water and
Development Services of the City of Vernon, a copy which is attached
hereto as Exhibit B.
SECTION 5: The City Clerk, or any authorized officer, shall
administer the Oath of Office prescribed in the Constitution of the
State of California to Wieske and shall have him subscribe to it and
file it with the Human Resources Department.
SECTION 6: The City Council of the City of Vernon hereby
directs the City Clerk, or the City Clerk's designee, to give a fully
executed Agreement to Wieske.
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SECTION 7: The City Clerk, or Deputy City Clerk, of the
City of Vernon shall certify to the passage, approval and adoption of
this resolution, and the City Clerk, or Deputy City Clerk, of the City
of Vernon shall cause this resolution and the City Clerk's, or Deputy
City Clerk's, certification to be entered in the File of Resolutions
of the Council of this City.
APPROVED AND ADOPTED this 16th day of February, 2016.
ATTEST:
Maria Ayala
City Clerk / Deputy -r; t Ca-er f
Name: W. Michael McCorm �-,
Title: Mayor / M
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
Zay ah o ssa, Deputy City Attorney
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STATE OF CALIFORNIA )
) ss
COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES )
I, Maria E . Ayala, City Clerk / of the City
of Vernon, do hereby certify that the foregoing Resolution, being
Resolution No. 2016-08, was duly passed, approved and adopted by the
City Council of the City of Vernon at a regular meeting of the City
Council duly held on Tuesday, February 16, 2016, and thereafter was
duly signed by the Mayor or Mayor Pro-Tem of the City of Vernon.
Executed this (04*"day of February, 2016, at Vernon, California.
(SEAL)
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MariaA. Ayala
City Clerk / e }
EXHIBIT A
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THE COMMUNITY
THE OR.( ANIZX14ON
The City of Vernon is an industrial
city of 5.2 square miles located
about five miles to the southeast of
downtown Los Angeles. Founded in
1905 as the first exclusively indus-
trial city in the Southwestern United
States (its residential population is
200). Vernon currently houses more
than 1,800 businesses that employ
approximately 50,000 people, serv-
ing as a vital economic region.
Vernon offers an environment uniquely friendly to busi-
ness and is home to many Fortune 500 companies in
industries that include food and agriculture, apparel,
steel, plastics, logistics and home furnishings. Vernon
maintains strong philanthropic ties with the neighboring
communities where much of its workforce lives, provid-
ing significant sort for public services such as health
care and education.
Over the years, Vernon has grown into one of the most
efficient and business friendly city governments in the
region. This is due to several factors including:
• Vernon Offers an array of municipal services tailored to
meet the needs of the business community.
• Vernon is one of61 cities in the United States with a
Class l rated Fire department and one of four cities in
California with its own Health department, specializing
in industrial issues.
• Competitive taxlevels
• City -owned and operated utilities, offering competitive
rates for water, electricity, gas and fiber optics.
• Vernon was a finalist in the 2015 and 2014 Los Angeles
County Economic Development Corporation's "Most
Business Friendly City" award competition for cities
with less than 50,000 residents; Vernon won the award
in 2008.
The five members of the City Council
are elected at large, on a non -partisan
basis, for five year staggered terms
and, as a result of 2011 Charter amend-
ments, no person may serve more than
two full terms of office. The Mayor is
selected by the Council.
The City's total budget for FY 2015-16 is a little over
$340 million (the General Fund budget is almost $57
million) with approximately 250 employees.
Vernon continues on the path towards creating greater
accountability and transparency with the goal to create
a model government.
In the past five years, Vernon has undergone tremen-
dous change. Through the city's implementation of
more than 150 good governance reforms, Vernon — the
city that has billed itself as "Exclusively Industrial" for
over 110 years — has firmly established itself as a mod-
el city for good governance. The City Council is seek-
ing a Department Head committed to good governance
practices.
Key challenges and opportunities facing the Di-
rector of Public Works, Water & Development
Services include:
• Working collaboratively with the City's executive
team and elected officials to further the City's ef-
forts to become a model city.
• Directing a staff of over 50 highly motivated indi-
viduals in a variety of disciplines.
• Providing guidance to City Council on major re-
gional transportation projects, including the wid-
ening of the I-710 freeway, the California High
Speed Rail and the Eco Rapid Transit line which
will all bisect the City.
• Oversight of a multitude of infrastructure capital
projects ranging from bridge widening, to storm
drain improvements, to water well construction.
• Developing a new water rate structure.
• Providing input and oversight on the development
of nearly $100 million dollars of private construc-
tion annually.
• Maintenance of an aging infrastructure.
• Implementation of new zoning regulations.
THE POSITION
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS
The Director of Pub-
lic Works, Water and
Development Ser-
vices provides leader-
ship and directs the
activities of the Pub-
lic Works, Engineer-
ing, Planning, Building and Water Divisions of the
City's Department of Public Works, Water and Devel-
opment Services.
The Director of Public Works, Water and Develop-
ment Services is considered a critical member of the
Executive team that has been assembled to successful
ly address and respond to the myriad of issues that
Vernon faces on a daily basis.
The Director of Public Works, Water and Develop-
ment Services supports the relationship between the
City of Vernon and the general public by demonstrat-
ing courteous and cooperative behavior when interact-
ing with the public and City Staff.
The Director of
Public Works, Wa-
Alm
ter and Develop -
This is not a comprehensive listing of all functions and duties per-
formed by incumbents in the Director of Public Works, Water and
Development Services classification:
• Plans, directs, and coordinates through subordinate staff the Depart-
ment's work plan; assigns projects and program areas of responsibil-
ity; reviews and evaluates work methods and procedures; meets with
key staff to identify and resolve problems.
• Determines the overall Departmental organizational structure, mis-
sion, core services and allocation of financial, human and capital re-
sources; develops and administers annual capital and operating budg-
ets.
• Measures and evaluates organizational effectiveness, employee per-
formance, and all operational functions.
• Serves as a technical advisor to the City Administrator and the City
Council regarding public works, engineering, traffic, water and eco-
nomic development matters.
• Plans, organizes, directs and reviews all public works activities, infra-
structure maintenance, City garage, warehouse operations, and facili-
ty maintenance.
• Develops and manages short- and long-term Department goals, objec-
tives, policies, and procedures.
• Supervises subordinate staff, sets work priorities; creates work sched-
ules; provides training; conducts performance evaluations; rewards
and/or disciplines employees.
ment Services must
have knowledge in
a diversity of fields
•
and be able to multi task. Duties range from oversight
of capital projects, performing City planning functions
including the development and enforcement of the
City's General Plan and Zoning regulations, providing
guidance on Building Code regulations, providing
technical oversight
of regional transpor-
tation and water pro-
jects, working with
property owners on
proposed industrial
development pro-
jects and overseeing
the water depart-
ment and mainte-
nance of the City's
infrastructure.
•
Serves as the City Engineer; coordinates capital projects; performs
contract administration; prepares all public works and water projects;
confers and advises on problems related to the design, construction
and engineering of public works and water systems; enforces the in-
terpretation and enforcement of construction specifications and the
design and operation of traffic systems.
Serves as the City's Building Official; oversees staff to ensure pro-
posed plans and construction comply with building codes; establishes
permit fees; develops amendments to codes.
Plans, directs, and reviews the design, construction, operation and
maintenance of the City's water systems, including wells, reservoirs,
and pipelines.
Performs long range planning including development of the City
General Plan, and zoning regulations and impacts of regional trans-
portation projects.
Directs and coordinates the application review on planning, building,
commercial and industrial projects, subdivisions, use permits, vari-
ances, zone changes and General Plan amendments.
Coordinates with consultants and other agencies regarding regulatory
and legislative matters affecting public works and water operations.
Reviews plans for enhancing and protecting the quality and adequacy
of City -owned water resources.
Establishes guidelines for the development of water rates and sales,
rules, regulations and the issuance of bonds.
Directs staff and oversees the code enforcement of violations of zon-
ing codes, building codes, and other related City regulations.
Directs the preparation of technical and administrative reports; pre-
sents reports along with recommendations to the City Administrator,
City Council, boards and commissions.
Represents the Department to other departments, elected officials and
external agencies.
• Participates in a variety of boards, commissions and committees; in-
teracts with external regulatory agencies.
• Confers with developers, commercial representatives, industrial inter-
ests, roperty owners and others in promoting and coordinating the
develpopment and use of property within the City.
• Completes special and ongoing projects and tasks assigned by the
City Administrator and/or elected officials.
THE IDEAL CANDIDATE
Skill in: Defining problems, establishing facts and drawing val-
id conclusions.
The ideal candidate is someone who can
properly prioritize his/her workload, follows
through, and who is detail oriented, well orga-
nized, decisive and has a sense of urgency.
He/She should be a team player who is open
and approachable; able to identify, select and
motivate subordinate staff, and can handle am-
biguity. Furthermore, he/she should be re-
sponsive, in a timely manner, to requests from
the Council, City Administrator, Department
Heads and the public. He/She must be hardworking,
energetic and confident, with a "can do" attitude. Fi-
nally, the Director of Public Works, Water and Devel-
opment Services needs to be trustworthy, ethical, artic-
ulate, and have good people skills.
Education Training and Experience: Bachelor's
Degree in Civil Engineering or a closely related field;
AND ten years of experience, including five years of su-
pervisory or management experience, in public works,
engineering, water resource management and/or Commu-
nity Development. Master's Degree in Public Administra-
tion or Engineering is highly desirable.
License and Certification Requirements:
Registration as a Pro essiona Engineer required. Posses-
sion of a valid California driver's license required.
Certified Building Official or must obtain certification
within one year from hire date.
Professional Land Surveyor is desirable.
Knowledge of: State of California engineering princi-
ples and practices regarding design and construction of
buildings, water facilities and technical inspection opera-
tions.
Applicable regulatory codes and laws regarding the de-
velopment, construction and operation of public works,
water, streets, planning, building and code enforcement.
Methods, materials, techniques and equipment used in
construction, operations, inspection, design and mainte-
nance of streets, buildings and water facilities.
Occupational hazards and standard safety procedures.
Managing situations requiring diplomacy,
fairness, firmness and sound judgment.
Interpreting and applying City, state and fed-
eral policies, laws and regulations.
Making appropriate decisions while ensuring
compliance with City goals and objectives.
Building effective teams and providing ef-
fective customer service.
Understanding and negotiating complex
technical agreements with external agencies.
Formulating and presenting policy recommendations.
Investigating, analyzing and resolving complex and sensitive is-
sues and complaints.
Responding to emergency and problem
situations effectively. .
Communicating effectively verbally r ;
and in writing.
Compensation:
The proposed monthly salary range
for this position is $16,551- $20,117 Salary placement de-
pends upon qualifications. In addition, benefits are provided
which include: vacation, holidays, sick leave and administra-
tive leave; medical, dental, vision and life insurance aggregate
allowance of $13,440 per year; pre-tax supplemental insurance
plans offered through AFLAC, Colonial Life, and Mutual of
Omaha; the option of participating in a Section 125 IRS Plan
for reimbursement of dependent care and medical costs; retire-
ment through the California Public Employees Retirement
System (CalPERS), with a 2.7% at 55 formula for classic
members (classic employees pay an 8% contribution) and a
2% at 62 retirement formula for new members (currently new
employees pay a 6.75% contribution); 457 deferred compensa-
tion plan available at employee cost (City does not contribute);
the City does not participate in Social Security; credit union
membership available. The City has a 4-10 work schedule.
HOW TO APPLY
To apply for this outstanding opportunity to
work for a dynamic, growing and progres-
sive City, please visit our website at
ww.sit.yo-=vernon,org to apply online.
The City of Vernon is an Equal Opportunity
Employer.
Filing Deadline: Monday, November 2, 2015
Principles and practices of administrative management,
effective employee supervision, regulatory management, If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact
contract administration, building and zoning, code en- Lisette Michel Grizzelle, in the Human Resources Department
forcement, water resource management, public works at (323)583-8811 ext. 166.
EXHIBIT B
AT -WILL EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT (NON -SAFETY)
BETWEEN THE CITY OF VERNON AND
Derek Wieske
This Agreement is between the City of Vernon ("City") and Derek Wieske ("Employee").
Recitals
City desires to employ Employee as an at -will employee in the position of Director of
Public Works, Water and Development Services. Employee desires to be the Director of Public
Works, Water and Development Services and acknowledges that such employment is at -will.
The City Administrator, pursuant to the authority granted by the City of Vernon Charter
and City Council, agrees to hire Employee, as an at -will employee, subject to the terms and
conditions identified below.
AGREEMENT
Section 1: TERM
The effective date of this Agreement shall be February 22, 2016. Either party may
terminate this Agreement pursuant to the provisions set forth below. Employee is an at -will
employee and may be terminated, with or without cause, upon thirty (30) days written notice.
Employee may resign with thirty (30) days advance notice as set forth in Section 8 below.
Section 2: DUTIES
A. City engages Employee as the Director of Public Works, Water and Development
Services to perform the functions and duties specified in the job description for the position
(Attachment "A", incorporated herein by this reference), as the same may be modified by the
City Administrator, from time to time, and to perform such other legally permissible and proper
duties and functions as the City Administrator shall, from time to time, assign. Per the specified
job description attached, Employee must obtain Building Official Certification within two (2)
years from hire date. Employee will not be eligible for a merit pay increase until Building Official
Certification and a performance evaluation with a rating of satisfactory or better is achieved.
B. Employee agrees that, to the best of his ability and experience, that he will at all
times conscientiously perform the duties and obligations required, either express or implied, by
the terms of this Agreement, the ordinances, resolutions and adopted policies of the City of
Vernon and the laws and regulations of the State of California and the United States.
C. As a public employee, Employee is required to work a full and complete work
week pursuant to the established work schedule as determined by the City Administrator, and
devote whatever time is necessary to fulfill the employment responsibilities and duties as
identified in this Agreement.
D. During the term of this Agreement, Employee is required to have and maintain a
valid California Driver's license.
December 2015
E. Employee acknowledges that in connection with the performance of his duties,
he will obtain information from City employees and third parties that is of a confidential nature.
Employee agrees that he will not disclose such confidential information other than to officers
and employees of the City who have been authorized to have access to such information.
Employee further agrees that if he has a question as to the confidentiality of information
obtained in the course of his employment, he will contact the City Attorney for advice.
F. City agrees to provide Employee forty (40) hours of sick leave as of February 22,
2016, in addition to regular leave accruals that will be earned at the regular Executive Leave
Schedule accrual rate.
Section 3: EXCLUSIVE EMPLOYMENT
Employee agrees to focus his professional time, ability and attention to City business
during the term of this Agreement. Consequently, Employee agrees not to engage in any other
business pursuits, whatsoever, directly or indirectly, render any services of a business,
commercial, or professional nature to any other person or organization, for compensation,
without the prior written consent of the City Administrator. This does not preclude Employee
from volunteering his services to other entities or individuals as long as such volunteer services
are not in conflict with the services to be provided by Employee under this Agreement.
Section 4: COMPENSATION
As compensation for the services to be rendered by Employee, City agrees to pay
Employee a base starting salary of no less than $198,612.00, per year, payable in twenty-six
(26) biweekly installments at the same time as other employees of the City are paid and subject
to customary withholding. Salary adjustments (merit increases), if any, in Employee's salary
during the term of this Agreement shall be at the sole discretion of the City Administrator based
upon the City Administrator's evaluation of Employee's job performance and within the base
salary range established by the City Council or as otherwise approved by the City Council. Any
and all adjustments shall be in accordance with City personnel policies and procedures.
Employee's salary shall be reflected in the City's publicly available salary schedule.
Section 5: BENEFITS
A. Retirement
As an employee of the City of Vernon, Employee will be enrolled in the California Public
Employees Retirement System (PERS) retirement plan, as such plan may be amended by the
City Council. As of the date of this employment agreement, such plan includes the 2.7% at 55
benefit formula for "classic" miscellaneous employees or the 2.0% at 62 benefit formula for
"new" miscellaneous employees. The Employee pays for the employee contribution to PERS.
B. Other Executive Management benefits
Employee shall receive all benefits specified by the then current Resolutions of the City
Council of Vernon for Executive Management Staff, including, without limitation, those related to
Vacation, Administrative Leave, Holidays, Sick Leave, Medical and Dental Insurance, Life
Insurance, Flexible Benefits Plans, Vision Care, Other Leaves, and Deferred Compensation,
and other types of leave in accordance with the Personnel and Policies and Procedures Manual.
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December 2015
Section 6: TERMINATION AND SEVERANCE PAY
A. Employee is an at -will employee and serves at the will and pleasure of the City
Administrator and may be terminated at any time, without cause, subject to the
conditions of paragraphs B and C of this section.
B. In the event that Employee is terminated by the City Administrator for reasons other
than physical or mental incapacity, and other than those reasons noted in paragraph
E, below, the City agrees to pay the employee a severance package equal to six (6)
months of base salary.
C. To be eligible for severance pay, as identified in paragraph B, of this section,
Employee shall fulfill all of his obligations under this Agreement and shall sign
acknowledgment and release of claims against the City. Such acknowledgement
and release appears as Attachment °B" to this Agreement.
D. All severance payments shall be paid within thirty (30) calendar days of the date
Employee executes the acknowledgement and release of claims against the City.
E. Notwithstanding paragraphs A, B and C, above, if Employee is terminated due to
retirement, insubordination, incapacity, dereliction of duty, violation of the City's
Alcohol and Drug -Free Workplace Policy III-1, conviction of a crime involving moral
turpitude or involving personal gain to him or abuse of his office or position or any
felony or for a breach of this Agreement, City shall have no obligation to pay any
severance provided in this section. Furthermore, Employee agrees that any
severance provided shall be fully reimbursed to the City if the Employee is convicted
of a crime involving an abuse of his office or position.
F. Upon termination, Employee shall be paid for all earned, but unused, vacation time.
Section 7: EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION LIMITATIONS
If Employee is paid leave salary during a pending investigation, any salary provided for
that purpose shall be fully reimbursed to the City if Employee is convicted of a crime involving
an abuse of his office or position.
If Employee is provided funds for any legal criminal defense during his employment with
the City, any funds provided for that purpose shall be fully reimbursed to the City if the
Employee is convicted of a crime involving an abuse of his office or position.
If this Agreement is terminated, any cash settlement related to the termination that
Employee may receive from the City shall be fully reimbursed to the City if Employee is
convicted of a crime involving an abuse of his office or position.
Section 8: RESIGNATION / RETIREMENT
Employee may resign at any time. Employee may retire, provided he is eligible for
retirement, at any time. Employee agrees to provide thirty (30) calendar days advance written
notice of the effective date of his resignation or retirement.
In the event Employee retires or resigns, Employee shall be entitled to payment for
earned, but unused, vacation time, but not to severance pay as delineated in Section 6,
paragraph B, above.
Section 9: DISABILITY
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December 2015
If Employee is permanently disabled or otherwise unable to perform his duties because
of sickness, accident, injury, mental incapacity or health for a period of thirty (30) calendar days
beyond any earned sick leave, City shall have the option to terminate this Agreement; however,
the City's option to terminate under this Section shall be limited by its obligation to engage in the
interactive process for reasonable accommodations and to provide reasonable accommodations
as required by law. Nothing in this Section shall be construed to limit or restrict Employee's
benefits or rights under workers' compensation or the Public Employees Retirement System
("PERS").
However, an employee terminated under this section is not eligible for severance pay, as
delineated in Section 6 of this Agreement.
In cases of disability, Employee shall be compensated for any earned, but unused,
vacation leave.
Section 10: GENERAL PROVISIONS
A. Notice
Any notices required by this Agreement shall be in writing and either delivered in person
or by first class, certified, return receipt requested US Mail with postage prepaid. Such notice
shall be addressed as follows:
TO CITY: Interim City Administrator
Arnold Jesse Wilson
City of Vernon
4305 Santa Fe Avenue
Vernon, CA 90058
TO EMPLOYEE: Derek Wieske
6 Entire Agreement
The text of this Agreement shall constitute the entire and exclusive agreement between
the parties. All prior oral or written communications understanding or agreements between the
parties, not set forth herein, shall be superseded in total by this Agreement. No Amendment or
modification to this Agreement may be made except by a written agreement signed by the
Employee and the City Administrator and approved as to form by the City Attorney.
C Assignment
This Agreement is not assignable by either the City or Employee.
D Severabllity
In the event that any provision of this Agreement is finally held or determined to be illegal
or void by a court having jurisdiction over the parties, the remainder of this Agreement shall
remain In full force and effect unless the parts found to be void are wholly inseparable from the
remaining portions of this Agreement.
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December 2015
E. Effect of Waiver
The failure of either party to insist on strict compliance with any of the terms, covenants,
or conditions in this Agreement by the other party shall not be deemed a waiver of that term,
covenant or condition, nor shall any waiver or relinquishment of any right or power at any one
time or times be deemed a waiver or relinquishment of that right or power for all or any other
time or times.
F. Jurisdiction
Any action to interpret or enforce the terms of this Agreement shall be held exclusively in
a state court in Los Angeles County, California. Employee expressly waives any right to remove
any such action from Los Angeles County.
G. Effective Date
This Agreement shall take effect on February 22, 2016.
[Signatures Begin on Next Page].
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December 2015
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the City of Vernon has caused this Agreement to be signed
and executed on its behalf by its Interim City Administrator, and executed by the Employee.
City of Vernon, a California charter City and
California municipal corporation
Dated: By:
Arnold Jess Wilso nterim City Administrator
TTEST:
Maria AyaIa1,1C'ftj5 rk
Approv as to f
H ttorney
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December 2015
In signing this Agreement, Employee understands and agrees that his employment status is that
of an at -will employee and that his rights to employment with the City are governed by the
terms and conditions of this Agreement rather than the ordinances, resolutions, and policies of
the City of Vernon which might otherwise apply to employees of the City. Employee further
acknowledges that he was given the opportunity to consult with an attorney prior to signing this
Agreement.
Dated: I LS I b
- 2A
Signed:
Em loyee
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December 2015
ATTACHMENT A
Job Description
DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC WORKS, WATER AND DEVELOPMENT SERVICES
SUMMARY: Under administrative direction, provides leadership and direction over the activities of the
Public Works, Engineering, Planning, Building and Water Divisions of the City's Department of
Development Services and Water.
ESSENT[AL FUNCTIONS: -- Essential functions, as defined under the Americans with Disabilities Act, may
include any of the following representative duties. knowledge, and skills. This is not a comprehensive listing of all
functions and duties performed by incumbents of this class; employees may be assigned duties which are not listed
below; reasonable accommodations will be made as required. The job description dues not constitute an
employment agreement and is subject to change at any time by the employer. Essential duties and responsibilities
may include, but are not limited to, the following:
• Plans, directs, and coordinates through subordinate staff the Department's work plan-, assigns
projects and program areas of responsibility; reviews and evaluates work methods and
procedures; meets with key staff to identify and resolve problems.
• Determines the overall Departmental organizational structure, mission, core services and
allocation of financial, human and capital resources; develops and administers annual capital
and operating budgets.
• Measures and evaluates organizational effectiveness, employee performance, and all
operational functions.
• Serves as a technical advisor to the City Administrator and the City Council regarding public
works, engineering, traffic, water and economic development matters.
• Plans, organizes, directs and reviews all public works activities, infrastructure maintenance,
City garage, warehouse operations, and facility maintenance.
• Develops and manages short- and long-term Department goals, objectives, policies, and
procedures.
• Supervises subordinate staff, sets work priorities; creates work schedules; provides training;
conducts performance evaluations; rewards and/or disciplines employees.
• Serves as the City Engineer; coordinates capital projects; performs contract administration;
prepares all public works and water projects; confers and advises on problems related to the
design, construction and engineering of public works and water systems; enforces the
interpretation and enforcement of construction specifications and the design and operation of
traffic systems.
• Serves as the City's Building Official; oversees staff to ensure proposed plans and construction
comply with building codes; establishes permit fees; develops amendments to codes.
• Plans, directs, and reviews the design, construction, operation and maintenance of the City's
water systems, including wells, reservoirs, and pipelines.
• Performs long range planning including development of the City General Plan, and zoning
regulations and impacts of regional transportation projects.
December 2015
• Directs and coordinates the application review on planning, building, commercial and
industrial projects, subdivisions, use permits, variances, zone changes and General Plan
amendments.
• Coordinates with consultants and other agencies regarding regulatory and legislative matters
affecting public works and water operations.
• Reviews plans for enhancing and protecting the quality and adequacy of City -owned water
resources.
• Establishes guidelines for the development of water rates and sales, rules, regulations and the
issuance of bonds.
• Directs staff and oversees the code enforcement of violations of zoning codes, building codes,
and other related City regulations.
• Directs the preparation of technical and administrative reports; presents reports along with
recommendations to the City Administrator, City Council, boards and commissions.
• Represents the Department to other departments, elected officials and external agencies.
• Participates in a variety of boards, commissions and committees; interacts with external
regulatory agencies.
• Confers with developers, commercial representatives, industrial interests, property owners and
others in promoting and coordinating the development and use of property within the City.
• Completes special and ongoing projects and tasks assigned by the City Administrator and/or
elected officials.
• Supports the relationship between the City of Vernon and the general public by demonstrating
courteous and cooperative behavior when interacting with visitors and City staff; maintains
confidentiality of work
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
Education, Training and Experience Guidelines:
Bachelor's Degree in Civil Engineering or a closely related field; AND ten years of experience,
including five years of supervisory or management experience, in public works, engineering,
water resource management and/or Community Development. Master's Degree in Public
Administration or Engineering highly desirable.
Knowledge of:
• City organization, operations, policies, and procedures.
• State of California engineering principles and practices regarding design and construction of
buildings, water facilities and technical inspection operations.
• Applicable regulatory codes and laws regarding the development, construction and operation
of public works, water, streets, planning, building and code enforcement.
• Methods, materials, techniques and equipment used in construction, operations, inspection,
design and maintenance of streets, buildings and water facilities.
• Occupational hazards and standard safety procedures.
• Principles and practices of administrative management.
-9-
December 2015
• Principles and practices of effective employee supervision.
• Principles and practices of regulatory management.
• Principles and practices of contract administration.
• Principles and practices of water resource management.
• Principles and practices of public works maintenance operations.
• Principles and practices of building and zoning code enforcement.
• Principles and practices of public finance.
• Principles and practices of project management.
• Principles and practices of strategic planning.
• Customer service standards and protocols.
Skill in:
• Directing the work of subordinate staff.
• Defining problems, establishing facts and drawing valid conclusions.
• Managing situations requiring diplomacy, fairness, firmness and sound judgment.
• Interpreting and applying City, state and federal policies, laws and regulations.
• Making appropriate decisions while ensuring compliance with City goals and objectives.
• Building effective teams and providing efficient customer services.
• Understanding and negotiating complex technical agreements with external agencies.
• Formulating and presenting policy recommendations.
• Investigating, analyzing and resolving complex and sensitive issues and complaints.
• Responding to emergency and problem situations effectively.
• Communicating effectively verbally and in writing.
• Dealing tactfully and courteously with the public.
• Establishing and maintaining cooperative working relationships with City Administrator,
City Council, managers, supervisors, staff, contractors, suppliers, developers, businesses,
external public agencies and the general public.
• Operating a personal computer and various software applications.
LICENSE AND CERTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS:
Registration as a Professional Engineer.
Registration as a Professional Land Surveyor is desirable.
Certified Building Official or must obtain within two year of hire date.
Possession of a valid State of California driver's license
PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORKING ENVIRONMENT:
Work is performed primarily in an office environment with some exposure to an outdoor work
environment. May be required to climb ladders. May be exposed to dangerous machinery.
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December 2015
ATTACHMENT B
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT AND RELEASE
This is to confirm that on this date I have received severance pay in the amount of
$ pursuant to my employment agreement with the City of Vernon. I acknowledge
that, in accepting such severance pay, I am releasing the City, its employees, officers and
agents, from any and all claims of any kind or nature I had or may have had against the City
arising from my employment with the City, including but without limitation, age discrimination
claims under the Age Discrimination in Employment Act and the Older Workers Benefit
Protection Act.
I further acknowledge that this Acknowledgment and Release releases the City from and
waives any claims I may have against the City, its employees, officers and agents, stemming
from my employment relationship, including the severance thereof, to the fullest extent
permissible under the law.
I further acknowledge that this waiver extends to all claims, known and unknown, relative
to my employment with and cessation of my employment with the City. I specifically waive the
application of Civil Code §1542, which provides:
A general release does not extent to claims which the creditor
does not know or suspect to exist in his favor at the time of
executing the release, which if known by him must have
materially affected his settlement with the debtor.
I have had the opportunity to consult with legal counsel relative to this Acknowledgement
and Release, and I had a reasonable period of time within which to consider signing this
Acknowledgement and Release. I have signed this Acknowledgement and Release voluntarily
and willingly.
Dated:
Employee
December 2015
TRANSMITTAL COMMUNICATION
I
'V
OFFICE OF THE CITY CLERK
4305 Santa Fe Avenue, Vernon, California 90058
Telephone (323) 583-8811
February 23, 2016
Derek Wieske
Re: At -Will Employment Agreement — Director of Public Works, Water and Development
Services
Dear Mr. Wieske:
Transmitted herewith is an original fully executed employment agreement, ratified by City
Council on February 16, 2016.
If you have any questions regarding this matter, please call Lisette Grizzelle at (323) 583-8811
ext. 166.
Very truly yours,
Deborah R. Juarez c T
Records Management Assistant
Enclosure
c: Joaquin Leon
Lisette Grizzelle
Resolution No. 2016-08
Agreement File No. 16-017
Ex,cfusivety Industrial
FULLY EXECUTED AGREEMENT
*l1�il MIX" VA". 1 1001107 1 �l�M_�f.`TCl7�l��1i�:7 ��Z1111I �li�Cl�.�CI
CONTRACTOR: Derek Wieske
CONTRACT PURPOSE: Employment Agreement
CONTRACT IS: ❑ FEDERAL ❑ PREVAILING WAGE ❑ COMPETITIVE SELECTION & NOTICED RFP
❑ COMPETITIVE BID & NOTICED INVITATION TO BID
❑ EXEMPT FROM COMPETITIVE PROCESS (APPROVAL ATTACHED)
L(SERVICES ❑ MATERIALS 9AUDGETED ❑ NOT BUDGETED
TOTAL CONTRACT VALUE: $ 198,612.00 Charge Acct. No(s) 011.1040.501010
Amendment Value $ ❑ Contract is an Amendment to Contract No. (if applicable)
RESPONSIBLE DEPARTMENT PERSON: Lisette Michel Grizzelle PHONE: ext. 166
AUTHORIZATION: rrApproved by Council on 01/20/2016 a11&11le -
(Check One) Resolution No,^, ,')/ (if applicable)
❑ Approved by City Administrator on
Note: Attach supporting documentation
❑Amendment Approved by (if applicable)
ROUTING SEQUENCE: (Please Follow In Order — Do not use N/A) Initials Date
(1) Responsible Department Person
Checks substance of contract and assembles two (2) copies of
contract, insurance & bond documents, certifies compliance
with Competitive Bidding and Purchasing Ordinance
(2) Liability and Claims
Approves insurance and sureties, if bonds required
(3) Finance (Purchasing) ly�%�,
Checks compliance with Competitive Bidding & Living Wage Ordinances
and reflected in current budget
(4) City Attorney
Approves contract as to form, verifies bonds and insurance included
(5) City Signatory
Signs all copies on behalf of City
(6) City Clerk
Attests signatures, numbers, files contract, insurance and bonds, and
transmits duplicate original to contractor, notifies IT to remove related RFP/bid
notice, notifies any "consultant" of duties to file Form 700, if applicable
Rev. 1 /27/14
AT -WILL EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT (NON -SAFETY)
BETWEEN THE CITY OF VERNON AND
Derek Wieske
This Agreement is between the City of Vernon ("City") and Derek Wieske ("Employee")
Recitals
City desires to employ Employee as an at -will employee in the position of Director of
Public Works, Water and Development Services. Employee desires to be the Director of Public
Works, Water and Development Services and acknowledges that such employment is at -will.
The City Administrator, pursuant to the authority granted by the City of Vernon Charter
and City Council, agrees to hire Employee, as an at -will employee, subject to the terms and
conditions identified below.
AGREEMENT
Section 1: TERM
The effective date of this Agreement shall be February 22, 2016. Either party may
terminate this Agreement pursuant to the provisions set forth below. Employee is an at -will
employee and may be terminated, with or without cause, upon thirty (30) days written notice.
Employee may resign with thirty (30) days advance notice as set forth in Section 8 below.
Section 2: DUTIES
A. City engages Employee as the Director of Public Works, Water and Development
Services to perform the functions and duties specified in the job description for the position
(Attachment "A", incorporated herein by this reference), as the same may be modified by the
City Administrator, from time to time, and to perform such other legally permissible and proper
duties and functions as the City Administrator shall, from time to time, assign. Per the specified
job description attached, Employee must obtain Building Official Certification within two (2)
years from hire date. Employee will not be eligible for a merit pay increase until Building Official
Certification and a performance evaluation with a rating of satisfactory or better is achieved.
B. Employee agrees that, to the best of his ability and experience, that he will at all
times conscientiously perform the duties and obligations required, either express or implied, by
the terms of this Agreement, the ordinances, resolutions and adopted policies of the City of
Vernon and the laws and regulations of the State of California and the United States.
C. As a public employee, Employee is required to work a full and complete work
week pursuant to the established work schedule as determined by the City Administrator, and
devote whatever time is necessary to fulfill the employment responsibilities and duties as
identified in this Agreement.
D. During the term of this Agreement, Employee is required to have and maintain a
valid California Driver's license.
December 2015
E. Employee acknowledges that in connection with the performance of his duties,
he will obtain information from City employees and third parties that is of a confidential nature.
Employee agrees that he will not disclose such confidential information other than to officers
and employees of the City who have been authorized to have access to such information.
Employee further agrees that if he has a question as to the confidentiality of information
obtained in the course of his employment, he will contact the City Attorney for advice.
F. City agrees to provide Employee forty (40) hours of sick leave as of February 22,
2016, in addition to regular leave accruals that will be earned at the regular Executive Leave
Schedule accrual rate.
Section 3: EXCLUSIVE EMPLOYMENT
Employee agrees to focus his professional time, ability and attention to City business
during the term of this Agreement. Consequently, Employee agrees not to engage in any other
business pursuits, whatsoever, directly or indirectly, render any services of a business,
commercial, or professional nature to any other person or organization, for compensation,
without the prior written consent of the City Administrator. This does not preclude Employee
from volunteering his services to other entities or individuals as long as such volunteer services
are not in conflict with the services to be provided by Employee under this Agreement.
Section 4: COMPENSATION
As compensation for the services to be rendered by Employee, City agrees to pay
Employee a base starting salary of no less than $198,612.00, per year, payable in twenty-six
(26) biweekly installments at the same time as other employees of the City are paid and subject
to customary withholding. Salary adjustments (merit increases), if any, in Employee's salary
during the term of this Agreement shall be at the sole discretion of the City Administrator based
upon the City Administrator's evaluation of Employee's job performance and within the base
salary range established by the City Council or as otherwise approved by the City Council. Any
and all adjustments shall be in accordance with City personnel policies and procedures.
Employee's salary shall be reflected in the City's publicly available salary schedule.
Section 5: BENEFITS
A. Retirement
As an employee of the City of Vernon, Employee will be enrolled in the California Public
Employees Retirement System (PERS) retirement plan, as such plan may be amended by the
City Council. As of the date of this employment agreement, such plan includes the 2.7% at 55
benefit formula for "classic" miscellaneous employees or the 2.0% at 62 benefit formula for
"new" miscellaneous employees. The Employee pays for the employee contribution to PERS.
B. Other Executive Management benefits
Employee shall receive all benefits specified by the then current Resolutions of the City
Council of Vernon for Executive Management Staff, including, without limitation, those related to
Vacation, Administrative Leave, Holidays, Sick Leave, Medical and Dental Insurance, Life
Insurance, Flexible Benefits Plans, Vision Care, Other Leaves, and Deferred Compensation,
and other types of leave in accordance with the Personnel and Policies and Procedures Manual.
-2-
December 2015
Section 6: TERMINATION AND SEVERANCE PAY
A. Employee is an at -will employee and serves at the will and pleasure of the City
Administrator and may be terminated at any time, without cause, subject to the
conditions of paragraphs B and C of this section.
B. In the event that Employee is terminated by the City Administrator for reasons other
than physical or mental incapacity, and other than those reasons noted in paragraph
E, below, the City agrees to pay the employee a severance package equal to six (6)
months of base salary.
C. To be eligible for severance pay, as identified in paragraph B, of this section,
Employee shall fulfill all of his obligations under this Agreement and shall sign
acknowledgment and release of claims against the City. Such acknowledgement
and release appears as Attachment "B" to this Agreement.
D. All severance payments shall be paid within thirty (30) calendar days of the date
Employee executes the acknowledgement and release of claims against the City.
E. Notwithstanding paragraphs A, B and C, above, if Employee is terminated due to
retirement, insubordination, incapacity, dereliction of duty, violation of the City's
Alcohol and Drug -Free Workplace Policy III-1, conviction of a crime involving moral
turpitude or involving personal gain to him or abuse of his office or position or any
felony or for a breach of this Agreement, City shall have no obligation to pay any
severance provided in this section. Furthermore, Employee agrees that any
severance provided shall be fully reimbursed to the City if the Employee is convicted
of a crime involving an abuse of his office or position.
F. Upon termination, Employee shall be paid for all earned, but unused, vacation time.
Section 7: EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION LIMITATIONS
If Employee is paid leave salary during a pending investigation, any salary provided for
that purpose shall be fully reimbursed to the City if Employee is convicted of a crime involving
an abuse of his office or position.
If Employee is provided funds for any legal criminal defense during his employment with
the City, any funds provided for that purpose shall be fully reimbursed to the City if the
Employee is convicted of a crime involving an abuse of his office or position.
If this Agreement is terminated, any cash settlement related to the termination that
Employee may receive from the City shall be fully reimbursed to the City if Employee is
convicted of a crime involving an abuse of his office or position.
Section 8: RESIGNATION / RETIREMENT
Employee may resign at any time. Employee may retire, provided he is eligible for
retirement, at any time. Employee agrees to provide thirty (30) calendar days advance written
notice of the effective date of his resignation or retirement.
In the event Employee retires or resigns, Employee shall be entitled to payment for
earned, but unused, vacation time, but not to severance pay as delineated in Section 6,
paragraph B, above.
Section 9: DISABILITY
-3-
December 2015
If Employee is permanently disabled or otherwise unable to perform his duties because
of sickness, accident, injury, mental incapacity or health for a period of thirty (30) calendar days
beyond any earned sick leave, City shall have the option to terminate this Agreement; however,
the City's option to terminate under this Section shall be limited by its obligation to engage in the
interactive process for reasonable accommodations and to provide reasonable accommodations
as required by law. Nothing in this Section shall be construed to limit or restrict Employee's
benefits or rights under workers' compensation or the Public Employees Retirement System
("PERS").
However, an employee terminated under this section is not eligible for severance pay, as
delineated in Section 6 of this Agreement.
In cases of disability, Employee shall be compensated for any earned, but unused,
vacation leave.
Section 10: GENERAL PROVISIONS
A. Notice
Any notices required by this Agreement shall be in writing and either delivered in person
or by first class, certified, return receipt requested US Mail with postage prepaid. Such notice
shall be addressed as follows:
TO CITY: Interim City Administrator
Arnold Jesse Wilson
City of Vernon
4305 Santa Fe Avenue
Vernon, CA 90058
TO EMPLOYEE: Derek Wieske
B Entire Agreement
The text of this Agreement shall constitute the entire and exclusive agreement between
the parties. All prior oral or written communications understanding or agreements between the
parties, not set forth herein, shall be superseded in total by this Agreement. No Amendment or
modification to this Agreement may be made except by a written agreement signed by the
Employee and the City Administrator and approved as to form by the City Attorney.
C Assignment
This Agreement is not assignable by either the City or Employee.
D Severability
In the event that any provision of this Agreement is finally held or determined to be illegal
or void by a court having jurisdiction over the parties, the remainder of this Agreement shall
remain in full force and effect unless the parts found to be void are wholly inseparable from the
remaining portions of this Agreement.
-4-
December2015
E. Effect of Waiver
The failure of either party to insist on strict compliance with any of the terms, covenants,
or conditions in this Agreement by the other party shall not be deemed a waiver of that term,
covenant or condition, nor shall any waiver or relinquishment of any right or power at any one
time or times be deemed a waiver or relinquishment of that right or power for all or any other
time or times.
F. Jurisdiction
Any action to interpret or enforce the terms of this Agreement shall be held exclusively in
a state court in Los Angeles County, California. Employee expressly waives any right to remove
any such action from Los Angeles County.
G. Effective Date
This Agreement shall take effect on February 22, 2016.
[Signatures Begin on Next Page].
-s-
December 2015
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the City of Vernon has caused this Agreement to be signed
and executed on its behalf by its Interim City Administrator, and executed by the Employee.
City of Vernon, a California charter City and
California municipal corporation
Dated: By: �-
Arnold Jess , WilsoInterim City Administrator
TTEST:
Maria . Ayala, ity rk
Approv d as to
1
He(n , ty ttorney
-6-
December 2015
In signing this Agreement, Employee understands and agrees that his employment status is that
of an at -will employee and that his rights to employment with the City are governed by the
terms and conditions of this Agreement rather than the ordinances, resolutions, and policies of
the City of Vernon which might otherwise apply to employees of the City. Employee further
acknowledges that he was given the opportunity to consult with an attorney prior to signing this
Agreement.
Dated: I Ls y b (o
Signed:
zlloe_14_1
Em loyee
-7-
December 2015
ATTACHMENT A
Job Description
DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC WORKS, WATER AND DEVELOPMENT SERVICES
SUMMARY: Under administrative direction, provides leadership and direction over the activities of the
Public Works, Engineering, Planning, Building and Water Divisions of the City's Department of
Development Services and Water.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: -- Essential functions, as defined under the Americans with Disabilities Act, may
include any of the following representative duties, knowledge, and skills. This is not a comprehensive listing of all
functions and duties performed by incumbents of this class; employees may be assigned duties which are not listed
below; reasonable accommodations will be made as required. The job description does not constitute an
employment agreement and is subject to change at any time by the employer. Essential duties and responsibilities
may include, but are not limited to, the following:
• Plans, directs, and coordinates through subordinate staff the Department's work plan; assigns
projects and program areas of responsibility; reviews and evaluates work methods and
procedures; meets with key staff to identify and resolve problems.
• Determines the overall Departmental organizational structure, mission, core services and
allocation of financial, human and capital resources; develops and administers annual capital
and operating budgets.
• Measures and evaluates organizational effectiveness, employee performance, and all
operational functions.
• Serves as a technical advisor to the City Administrator and the City Council regarding public
works, engineering, traffic, water and economic development matters.
• Plans, organizes, directs and reviews all public works activities, infrastructure maintenance,
City garage, warehouse operations, and facility maintenance.
• Develops and manages short- and long-term Department goals, objectives, policies, and
procedures.
• Supervises subordinate staff; sets work priorities; creates work schedules; provides training;
conducts performance evaluations; rewards and/or disciplines employees.
• Serves as the City Engineer; coordinates capital projects; performs contract administration;
prepares all public works and water projects; confers and advises on problems related to the
design, construction and engineering of public works and water systems; enforces the
interpretation and enforcement of construction specifications and the design and operation of
traffic systems.
• Serves as the City's Building Official; oversees staff to ensure proposed plans and construction
comply with building codes; establishes permit fees; develops amendments to codes.
• Plans, directs, and reviews the design, construction, operation and maintenance of the City's
water systems, including wells, reservoirs, and pipelines.
• Performs long range planning including development of the City General Plan, and zoning
regulations and impacts of regional transportation projects.
December 2015
• Directs and coordinates the application review on planning, building, commercial and
industrial projects, subdivisions, use permits, variances, zone changes and General Plan
amendments.
• Coordinates with consultants and other agencies regarding regulatory and legislative matters
affecting public works and water operations.
• Reviews plans for enhancing and protecting the quality and adequacy of City -owned water
resources.
• Establishes guidelines for the development of water rates and sales, rules, regulations and the
issuance of bonds.
• Directs staff and oversees the code enforcement of violations of zoning codes, building codes,
and other related City regulations.
• Directs the preparation of technical and administrative reports; presents reports along with
recommendations to the City Administrator, City Council, boards and commissions.
• Represents the Department to other departments, elected officials and external agencies.
• Participates in a variety of boards, commissions and committees; interacts with external
regulatory agencies.
• Confers with developers, commercial representatives, industrial interests, property owners and
others in promoting and coordinating the development and use of property within the City.
• Completes special and ongoing projects and tasks assigned by the City Administrator and/or
elected officials.
• Supports the relationship between the City of Vernon and the general public by demonstrating
courteous and cooperative behavior when interacting with visitors and City staff; maintains
confidentiality of work
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
Education, Training and Experience Guidelines:
Bachelor's Degree in Civil Engineering or a closely related field; AND ten years of experience,
including five years of supervisory or management experience, in public works, engineering,
water resource management and/or Community Development. Master's Degree in Public
Administration or Engineering highly desirable.
Knowledge of:
• City organization, operations, policies, and procedures.
• State of California engineering principles and practices regarding design and construction of
buildings, water facilities and technical inspection operations.
• Applicable regulatory codes and laws regarding the development, construction and operation
of public works, water, streets, planning, building and code enforcement.
• Methods, materials, techniques and equipment used in construction, operations, inspection,
design and maintenance of streets, buildings and water facilities.
• Occupational hazards and standard safety procedures.
• Principles and practices of administrative management.
-9-
December 2015
• Principles and practices of effective employee supervision.
• Principles and practices of regulatory management.
• Principles and practices of contract administration.
• Principles and practices of water resource management.
• Principles and practices of public works maintenance operations.
• Principles and practices of building and zoning code enforcement.
• Principles and practices of public finance.
• Principles and practices of project management.
• Principles and practices of strategic planning.
• Customer service standards and protocols.
Skill in:
• Directing the work of subordinate staff.
• Defining problems, establishing facts and drawing valid conclusions.
• Managing situations requiring diplomacy, fairness, firmness and sound judgment.
• Interpreting and applying City, state and federal policies, laws and regulations.
• Making appropriate decisions while ensuring compliance with City goals and objectives.
• Building effective teams and providing efficient customer services.
• Understanding and negotiating complex technical agreements with external agencies.
• Formulating and presenting policy recommendations.
• Investigating, analyzing and resolving complex and sensitive issues and complaints.
• Responding to emergency and problem situations effectively.
• Communicating effectively verbally and in writing.
• Dealing tactfully and courteously with the public.
• Establishing and maintaining cooperative working relationships with City Administrator,
City Council, managers, supervisors, staff, contractors, suppliers, developers, businesses,
external public agencies and the general public.
• Operating a personal computer and various software applications.
LICENSE AND CERTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS:
Registration as a Professional Engineer.
Registration as a Professional Land Surveyor is desirable.
Certified Building Official or must obtain within two year of hire date.
Possession of a valid State of California driver's license
PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORKING ENVIRONMENT:
Work is performed primarily in an office environment with some exposure to an outdoor work
environment. May be required to climb ladders. May be exposed to dangerous machinery.
- 10-
December 2015
ATTACHMENT B
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT AND RELEASE
This is to confirm that on this date I have received severance pay in the amount of
$ pursuant to my employment agreement with the City of Vernon. I acknowledge
that, in accepting such severance pay, I am releasing the City, its employees, officers and
agents, from any and all claims of any kind or nature I had or may have had against the City
arising from my employment with the City, including but without limitation, age discrimination
claims under the Age Discrimination in Employment Act and the Older Workers Benefit
Protection Act.
I further acknowledge that this Acknowledgment and Release releases the City from and
waives any claims I may have against the City, its employees, officers and agents, stemming
from my employment relationship, including the severance thereof, to the fullest extent
permissible under the law.
I further acknowledge that this waiver extends to all claims, known and unknown, relative
to my employment with and cessation of my employment with the City. I specifically waive the
application of Civil Code §1542, which provides:
A general release does not extent to claims which the creditor
does not know or suspect to exist in his favor at the time of
executing the release, which if known by him must have
materially affected his settlement with the debtor.
I have had the opportunity to consult with legal counsel relative to this Acknowledgement
and Release, and I had a reasonable period of time within which to consider signing this
Acknowledgement and Release. I have signed this Acknowledgement and Release voluntarily
and willingly.
Dated:
Employee
December 2015
D'' �1111
CITY CLERK'S OFFICE STAFF REPORT
CITY ADMINISTRATION
DATE: February 16, 2016
TO: Honorable Mayor and City Council
FROM: A.J. Wilson, Interim City Administrator
Originator: Kristen Enomoto, Deputy City Administrator
RE: Resolution Appointing Derek Wieske to Serve as Director of Public Works,
Water and Development Services and Approving and Authorizing the
Execution of a Related Employment Agreement
Recommendation
A. Find that approval of the agreement proposed in this staff report is exempt from the
California Environmental Quality Act ("CEQA"), in accordance with CEQA Guidelines
§ 15061(b)(3), the general rule that CEQA only applies to projects that may have a
significant effect on the environment; and
B. Adopt the attached resolution appointing Derek Wieske to serve as the Director of Public
Works, Water and Development Services of the City of Vernon effective February 22,
2016, and approving and authorizing the execution of a related at -will employment
agreement.
Background
On September 29, 2015, following the announcement of the December 27, 2015 retirement of
the former Public Works, Water and Development Services Director, the Interim Director of
Human Resources began the recruitment process to fill the anticipated vacancy.
Recruitment Summary
A broad outreach to potential candidates was conducted resulting in forty-five (45) applications.
Twenty-six (26) applicants met the City's minimum qualifications for the position. Those
applications were reviewed with the Interim Human Resources Director and four (4) applicants
were deemed highly qualified and were invited to participate in a first -round interview conducted
by an internal/external combined interview panel. One (1) candidate did not attend the panel
interview, so only (3) candidates were interviewed. The interview panel consisted of the City
Administrator, Police Chief, Economic Development Manager, Director of Public Works, Water
Page 1 of 3
and Development Services, and the Vernon Chamber of Commerce CEO/President. The two (2)
highest-ranking candidates were referred to the final interview selection with the City Council.
The City Council conducted interviews with the two (2) highest-ranking candidates at a special
City Council meeting held on December 15, 2015. After thorough consideration and
deliberation, the City Council unanimously determined Derek Wieske to be the best -qualified
candidate to meet the needs of the City and the Public Works, Water and Development Services
Department. As such, the City Council directed the City Administrator to pursue the
employment of Derek Wieske as the Director of Public Works, Water and Development Services
for City of Vernon, subject to approval of an at -will employment agreement and successful
completion of the pre -employment process.
Candidate Summary
Mr. Wieske currently serves as Assistant City Engineer for the Long Beach Public Works
Department. He is a registered civil engineer with more than 25-years of professional experience
and management expertise in municipal capital projects, private development review, and city
infrastructure improvements, such as roads, bridges and drainage systems, as well as street
maintenance, solid waste management, traffic signal improvements, and bike infrastructure.
Over the course of his professional career, Mr. Wieske has served as Public Works Director for
the cities of Rancho Santa Margarita and Los Alamitos, Deputy Public Works Director for
Rialto, Assistant City Engineer for Laguna Beach, Civil Engineering Associate for Lake Forest
and Civil Engineer for Orange.
Mr. Wieske has a master's degree in Business Administration and a master's degree in Science
(Civil Engineering) from California State University, Long Beach. He earned his bachelor's
degree in Civil Engineering from University of California, Irvine.
Given Mr. Wieske's qualifications and extensive experience, he is well suited to meet the needs
of the City's Public Works, Water and Development Services Department, and will be a valuable
addition to the executive team.
At -Will Employment Agreement
Both Mr. Wieske and the City have executed the standard form at -will employment agreement
utilized for nearly all executive positions. The only modifications to the standard provisions are
outlined below:
■ Employee must obtain Building Official Certification within two (2) years from hire date.
Employee will not be eligible for a merit pay increase until Building Official
Certification and a performance evaluation with a rating of satisfactory or better is
achieved.
■ City agrees to provide Employee forty (40) hours of sick leave as of February 22, 2016,
in addition to regular leave accruals that will be earned at the regular Executive Leave
Schedule accrual rate.
Page 2 of 3
Fiscal Impact
The approximate annual cost to fill the Director of Public Works, Water and Development
Services position as proposed in this staff report is $261,150 (salary of $198,612, plus fringe
benefits). The approximate cost for the remainder of this fiscal year is $95,000, and sufficient
funds were included in the budget for FY 2015-2016.
Attachment(s)
None.
Page 3 of 3