Resolution No. 2025-018RESOLUTION NO. 2025-018
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF VERNON
APPOINTING SU W. TAN TO SERVE AS THE DIRECTOR OF HUMAN
RESOURCES OF THE CITY OF VERNON AND APPROVING AND
AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTION OF A RELATED AT-WILL
EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT
SECTION 1. Recitals.
A. The Director of Human Resources position has been vacant since October 2024.
B. On October 1, 2024, the City Council of the City of Vernon adopted Resolution No.
2024-021 appointing an Interim Director of Human Resources until the City completed its
recruitment process and filled the position on a permanent basis.
C. On or about August 21, 2024, the City retained the services of Bob Murray &
Associates (Bob Murray) to conduct a recruitment for the position of Director of Human
Resources of Vernon.
D. Bob Murray 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.
E. The top five candidates participated in a dual panel interview process on April 28,
2025, and the top four candidates moved forward to a final interview with the City
Administrator.
F. The City Administrator of the City of Vernon has determined Su W. Tan (Tan) to
be the most qualified candidate for the position of Director of Human Resources and
desires to appoint Tan to serve as the Director of Human Resources, effective June 30,
2025.
G. At its regular City Council meeting on June 3, 2025, prior to taking final action to
adopt this resolution, the City Council received an oral report summarizing the
recommended appointment and compensation, in accordance with Government Code
Section 54953(c)(3).
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY
OF VERNON AS FOLLOWS:
SECTION 2. The City Council of the City of Vernon finds and determines that the
above recitals are true and correct.
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SECTION 3. The City Council of the City of Vernon hereby appoints Su W. Tan
to serve as the Director of Human Resources, effective June 30, 2025.
SECTION 4. The City Council of the City of Vernon hereby approves and
authorizes the execution of the At-Will Employment Agreement with Su W. Tan to serve
as Director of Human Resources of the City of Vernon, in substantially the same form as
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 Tan and shall have her
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 Tan.
SECTION 7. All resolutions or parts of resolutions not consistent with or in conflict
with this resolution are hereby repealed.
SECTION 8. The City Clerk or Deputy City Clerk shall certify the passage and
adoption of this resolution and enter it into the book of original resolutions.
APPROVED AND ADOPTED June 3, 2025.
________________________
JUDITH MERLO, Mayor
ATTEST:
GENOVEVA ROCHA, City Clerk
(seal)
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
ZAYNAH N. MOUSSA, City Attorney
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I CERTIFY THAT RESOLUTION NO. 2025-018 was passed and adopted by the City
Council of the City of Vernon at the Regular Meeting on June 3, 2025, by the following
vote:
AYES: 5 Council Members: Larios, Lopez, Rivera, Ybarra, Merlo
NOES: 0
ABSENT: 0
ABSTAIN: 0
________________________________
GENOVEVA ROCHA, City Clerk
(seal)
DIRECTOR OF
HUMAN RESOURCES
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THE COMMUNITY
The City of Vernon is a dynamic full-service
city of 5.2 square miles located about
five miles to the southeast of downtown
Los Angeles. Founded in 1905 as the first
exclusively industrial city in the Southwestern
United States, Vernon is home to 250 residents
and has embarked on ambitious plans to increase its
residential population and establish itself as an ideal place to live
and work. The City currently houses more than 1,800 businesses
that employ approximately 50,000 people, serving as a vital eco-
nomic engine for the Southern California region. Vernon offers an
environment uniquely friendly to business and has a diverse industry
makeup comprising many Fortune 500 companies in industries that
include food and agriculture, apparel, steel, plastics, logistics and
home furnishings. Through the City’s implementation of more than 150
good governance reforms, Vernon – the City that has characterized
itself as “Exclusively Industrial” for almost 120 years – has firmly estab-
lished itself as a model city for good governance. Vernon maintains
strong philanthropic ties with the neighboring communities where much
of its workforce lives, providing significant support for public services
through the City’s CommUNITY Fund grants for programs in areas such
as health care and education. The City has embarked on aggressive
plans for its future as it moves towards increasing its residential population,
more balanced land uses, and mitigating industrial impacts in the
region. With Vernon’s proximity to downtown Los Angeles and major
regional and worldwide economic markets and industries, unique
opportunities exist in the community to address regional housing shortages
while establishing itself as an ideal place to both live and work.
THE ORGANIZATION
The five members of the Vernon City Council are elected at large, on a
non-partisan basis, for five-year staggered terms and no person may
serve more than two full terms of office. The Mayor and Mayor Pro Tem
positions are rotated annually among Council Members in order of
election. The City’s approved budget for FY 2024-2025 is just over
$402 million (including Utility Enterprise Funds). The General Fund
budget is approximately $84 million. The City employs a little over
225 employees to staff the following departments: City Administration,
the Office of the City Attorney, Office of the
City Clerk, Human Resources
Department, Police Depart-
ment, Finance Department,
Public Works Department,
Public Utilities Depart-
ment and Health and
Environmental Control
Department. Establish-
ed by city ordinance
in 1907, Vernon is
one of four cities in
California with a local Health
Department. Vernon Public Utilities
is a three-time National American
Public Power Association Diamond
level RP3 Award-winning utility and
provides reliable and low-cost
Electricity, Fiber Optic Internet Service,
Natural Gas (transmission & distri-
bution), and Water. Uniquely service-
oriented, Vernon is the only California
city that operates its own local
Health Department, and Public Utility
providing electric, natural gas, water,
and fiber optic internet services.
THE POSITION
Under limited supervision, the Director
of Human Resources directs a com-
prehensive Citywide human resources
program, including planning, coordi-
nating, and directing the operations
and activities of the Human Resources
Department which includes recruit-
ment and staffing, classification and
compensation, employee benefits,
organizational development, safety,
training, employee/labor relations,
workers compensation and regulatory
compliance. The Director provides
expert professional assistance and
guidance to City management on
human resources and employee
relations matters and works in a
cooperative and interest-based
manner with employees and their
representatives to resolve concerns.
Essential duties and responsibilities
may include, but are not limited to:
•Managing the Human Resources
Department through effective
planning and fiscal management;
providing leadership, direction
and guidance in human resources
strategies and priorities; evaluat-
ing and analyzing issues and
recommending and implementing
solutions; monitoring and assuring
human resources activities and
procedures are in compliance
with all laws, policies, and regula-
tions.
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•Providing advice and consul-
tation to management and
employees on dispute reso-
lution, performance issues,
and the interpretation and
correct application of
policies and procedures;
mediating employee
relations issues and
assisting with disciplinary
actions, while exercising
the highest degree of
confidentiality and profes-
sionalism.
•Counseling City staff on personnel
policies, procedures and processes;
interpreting and providing advice and assistance
regarding employment issues; assuring the consistent interpretation
and application of Federal, state and City rules, regulations, policies
and procedures.
•Managing HR staff, prioritizing projects, evaluating performance, and
resolving workload and technical issues; assuring that appropriate
services are provided.
•Providing leadership and direction for all labor relations activities including
contract negotiations.
•Representing the HR functions to other City departments, elected officials
and ancillary agencies; providing recommendations and solutions as
needed.
•Monitoring changes in proposed legislation and making recom-
mendations affecting personnel, benefits, and workers’
compensation matters.
•Directing research of new theories, best practices
and/or trends in human resources administration
that will enhance the performance and productivity
of the department.
•Keeping abreast of current principles and practices
of effective human resources management including
automation and technology, labor relations, benefits,
and employee development.
•Directing the technical recordkeeping process and
procedures; assuring the absolute confidentiality of
work-related issues, personnel records and City information;
assuring compliance with the confidentiality standards of
the Privacy Act of 1974.
•Supporting the relationship between the City of Vernon and the
general public by demonstrating courteous and cooperative
behavior when interacting with visitors and City staff; main-
taining confidentiality of work-related issues and City infor-
mation; performing other duties as required or assigned.
THE IDEAL
CANDIDATE
The City of Vernon is seeking an
engaged, flexible, and compas-
sionate candidate to serve as the
next Director of Human Resources.
The ideal candidate has a customer
service mindset along with a track
record of advocating for employees.
A seasoned and approachable
candidate who has the ability to
develop and implement appropriate
procedures and controls is desired.
Candidates must also possess
knowledge of principles and practic-
es of labor management relations,
including negotiation and contract
administration techniques; federal,
state, and local laws, regulations,
and court decisions applicable to
assigned areas of responsibility;
and principles and practices of
public administration, including bud-
geting, purchasing, and maintenance
of public records. The incoming
Director of Human Resources
should possess excellent commu-
nication skills and must have the
ability to consult effectively with
executives, other directors, and
managers to develop solutions
to complex organizational
and people management
issues.
The ideal candidate is
an adaptable and prov-
en labor negotiator
who can represent
the City effectively
while establishing and
maintaining effective work-
ing relationships with all levels
of City management, employee
organizations, other governmental
officials, employees, and the public.
A responsive, collaborative, and
passionate candidate is desired.
The incoming Director of Human
Resources should be proactive
with the ability to bring balance
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and build trust in the department. Qualified candidates
possess a Bachelor’s degree with a major in Human
Resources, Business Administration, or a related field; AND
five years of professional Human Resources program
management experience, preferably in public sector operations.
A Master’s degree in Human Resources or Business Administration
is desirable. A valid California State Driver’s License is required.
COMPENSATION AND
BENEFITS
The annual salary range for the Director of Human Resources
position is $199,063 - $241,963. Placement within this range depends
upon qualifications and experience. The City also offers an excellent
benefits package including vacation, holiday, sick, and administrative
leave; life insurance; and medical, dental, and vision insurance. 2025
aggregate allowance of up to $2,194.03 per month for family coverage.
This position also receives a $400 per month auto allowance. Pre-tax
supplemental insurance plans are offered through AFLAC, Colonial Life,
and Mutual of Omaha; there is an option to participate in a Section 125
IRS Plan for reimbursement of dependent care and medical costs;
retirement benefits are offered through the California Public Employees
Retirement System (CalPERS), with a 2.7% at 55 formula for classic
members (classic employees currently pay an 8% employee contribution
and a 3% share of the employer contribution) and a 2% at 62 retirement
formula for new members (currently new employees pay a 7% contribution);
457 deferred compensation plan available at employee cost; the City
does not participate in Social Security; credit union membership also
available.
The City has a 4/10 work schedule and there is an option for participation
in a Hybrid Work Program that provides both onsite and remote work
opportunities.
TO APPLY
If you are interested in this out-
standing opportunity, please apply
online at:
www.bobmurrayassoc.com
Filing Deadline:
March 23, 2025
Following the closing date, resumes
will be screened according to the
qualifications outlined above. The
most qualified candidates will be
invited to personal interviews with
Bob Murray & Associates. A select
group of candidates will be asked
to provide references once it is
anticipated that they may be rec-
ommended as finalists. References
will be contacted only following
candidate approval. Finalist interviews
will be held with the City of Vernon.
Candidates will be advised of the
status of the recruitment following
selection of the Director of Human
Resources.
If you have any questions, please do
not hesitate to call Ms. Valerie Phillips
at:
(916) 784-9080
.
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City Council Agenda Report
Meeting Date:June 3, 2025
From:Brian Saeki, City Administrator
Department:City Administration
Submitted by:Lilia Hernandez, Assistant to the City Administrator
Subject
Appointment of Su W. Tan as Director of Human Resources
Recommendation
Adopt Resolution No. 2025-018 appointing Su W. Tan to serve as the Director of Human
Resources of the City of Vernon effective June 30, 2025, and approving and authorizing the
execution of a related at-will employment agreement.
Background
Following the retirement of the former Director of Human Resources in 2024, the City issued a
Request for Proposals (RFP) for recruitment firms to conduct four executive level recruitments.
Based on the RFP process conducted, the firm Bob Murray & Associates was selected to conduct
the City Administrator, City Clerk, Director of Finance/City Treasurer and Director of Human
Resources recruitments.
Recruitment Summary
The recruitment period to fill the Director of Human Resources position began on February 20,
2025 and closed on March 23, 2025. Bob Murray & Associates received a total of 103 resume
and questionnaire packets. Following an in-depth review of the resumes and questionnaires
submitted, 12 candidates were interviewed by the recruitment firm and five candidates were
recommended to move forward. Five candidates were invited to participate in a dual panel
interview process consisting of City and external evaluators on April 28, 2025 and the final four
were interviewed by the City Administrator. Subsequently, the City Administrator is
recommending the appointment of Su Tan to serve as the Director of Human Resources for the
City of Vernon.
At-Will Employment Agreement
The At-Will Employment Agreement for Director of Human Resources has been presented to
Ms. Tan and is included as Exhibit B to Resolution No. 2025-018. The agreement establishes
an effective date of June 30, 2025, and a starting salary of $219,467 per year, plus all benefits
provided to executive personnel.
The proposed agreement is consistent with other City of Vernon executive employment
agreements, albeit with the following exceptions:
•Added language to Section 5B indicating Employee shall receive an initial balance of 80
hours of Vacation time and 80 hours of Sick leave during the first year of City employment,
which cannot be cashed out and shall not carry over.
These initial balances are categorized as “use it lose it” and would expire upon the one-year
anniversary of the Employee.
Candidate Summary
Su Tan has over 20 years of municipal Human Resources experience. Most recently, Ms. Tan
served as the Human Resources Manager for the City of Monrovia and previously served the
City of Rosemead also in that capacity. Ms. Tan holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Sociology from
the University of California, Irvine and a Master’s Degree in Public Administration with a
specialization in Human Resources Management from the University of Southern California.
Given Ms. Tan’s qualifications and considerable experience in Human Resources, she is well
suited to meet the needs of the City and lead the Human Resources Department.
At its regular City Council meeting on June 3, 2025, prior to taking final action to approve
Resolution No. 2025-018, the City Council received an oral report summarizing the
recommended appointment and compensation, in accordance with Government Code Section
54953(c)(3).
Fiscal Impact
The fiscal impact is estimated at approximately $280,800 including salary and benefits ($219,467
base salary and $61,333 in benefit costs). Sufficient funds for the appointment of the Director of
Human Resources are available in the General Fund, Human Resources Department, Salaries,
Taxes and Benefits Accounts for the current fiscal year and will be budgeted in subsequent fiscal
years.
Attachments
1. Resolution No. 2025-018