HomeMy WebLinkAbout1304th CSC Meeting (January 16, 2013)1300 REGULAR MEETING OF THE
CIVIL SERVICE COMMISSION
The 1304th Regular Meeting of the Civil Service Commission was held on Wednesday,
January 16, 2013. The meeting was called to order at 5:36 p.m.
Members Present:
Members Absent:
Also Present:
Keith Besonen, Sewer Maintenance Worker I
Kimberly Buchholz -Lewis, Construction Worker
II
Ward Cowen, Sewer Maintenance Worker I
Sharon Dolmetsch, Deputy Treasurer
Robert Domenzain, Firefighter
Timothy Fairgrieve, Equipment Operator II
Ken Grzembski, President, AFSCME Union
Local 192
Jeremy Schaeffer, Equipment Operator II
Joseph Schroeder, Firefighter
Harry C. Tatigian, Chairman
Charlotte S. Mahoney
Brian Meakin
Thomas Stadler, Sewer Maintenance Worker
Cheryl Wallman, Senior Engineering
Inspector
Shadd Whitehead, Fire Chief
Ken Widmer, Sewer Maintenance Worker I
Brian Wilson, Superintendent of Public
Service
Audrey Young, Equipment Operator 11
Robert F. Biga, Human Resources Director
Gretchen Guisbert, Secretary III
Mr. Meakin was unable to attend the meeting; therefore, Chairman Tatigian stepped down to
second all the motions for the meeting.
Upon a motion by Ms. Mahoney, seconded by Mr. Tatigian and adopted, it was
13-01 RESOLVED, that the Minutes of the 1303rd Regular Meeting held
Wednesday, December 5, 2012, be approved as submitted.
Upon a motion by Ms. Mahoney, seconded by Mr. Tatigian and adopted, it was
13-02 RESOLVED, that the Civil Service Commission does hereby affirm
the administrative approval of the eligible list for Recreation Supervisor —
Greenmead (954 o.c.).
Upon a motion by Ms. Mahoney, seconded by Mr. Tatigian and adopted, it was
13-03 RESOLVED, that the Civil Service Commission does hereby affirm
the administrative approval of the eligible list for Police Service Aide (952 o.c.).
Upon a motion by Ms. Mahoney, seconded by Mr. Tatigian and adopted, it was
13-04 RESOLVED, that the Civil Service Commission does hereby affirm
the administrative approval of the eligible list for Legal Steno II (1343 p.).
Ken Grzembski, President, AFSCME Union Local 192, staled the request from Alex Bishop,
Director of Inspection, for an extension of probation for Ms. Mootsey, Clerk -Typist 11, was a
normal practice and the Union had no objections to the request.
Paget 1304" Regular Meeting January 16,2013
Upon a motion by Ms. Mahoney, seconded by Mr. Tatigian and adopted, it was
13-05 RESOLVED, that having reviewed the letter of December 26, 2012,
from Alex Bishop, Director of Inspection, requesting a six-month extension of
probation for Marilyn Mootsey, Clerk -Typist II, the Civil Service Commission does
hereby affirm the administrative approval of a six (6) month extension of
Ms. Mootseys probationary period to June 26, 2013.
The Commission received and filed the following:
a. Status of Temporary Employees Report for December 2012.
b. Non -Resident Report as of January 1, 2013.
C. Current Open -Competitive and Promotional Eligible Lists as of January 1,
2013.
d. Affirmative Action Report for December 2012.
e. Removal of names from active eligible list report for the month of
December -2012.
f. Council Resolution from the meeting of November 21, 2012 with minutes
to be approved December 5, 2012:
#458-12, authorizing the contract with Citizens Management, Inc. (CMI), to
provide the City with claims administrative services and excess insurance
coverage with the City's self-insurance program for workers'
compensation, for the period December 1, 2012 to November 30, 2013.
g. Letter received on December 7, 2012, from Kevin A. Elsenheimer,
Director, Workers Compensation Agency from the State of Michigan, to
Michael T. Slater, Director of Finance, regarding the Workers' Disability
Compensation Individual Self -Insured Authority.
It. Council Resolutions from the meeting of December 19, 2012 with minutes
to be approved January 14, 2013:
#486-12, amending and restating the Deferred Compensation Plan in the
form of the 457 Governmental Plan and Trust.
#487-12, approving the Tentative Agreement between the City of Livonia
and the Livonia Police Lieutenants and Sergeants Association (LLSA) for
the period December 1, 2012 through November 30, 2013.
#488-12, approving the extension of medical benefits as provided in the
2010-2013 Police Officers Association agreement for the Police Captains,
Deputy Police Chief and the Police Chief, effective December 1, 2012.
#512-12, approving the City Council meeting schedule for 2013, subject to
change with notice.
#517-12, concurring in and approving the appointment of Barbara Schen
as Magistrate of the 16th District Court effective January 1, 2013.
i. Expiring eligible list for the month of February 2013 Police Dispatcher
(952 o.c.).
Page 1304" Regular Meeting January 16,2013
Upon a motion by Ms. Mahoney, seconded by Mr. Tatigian and adopted, it was
13-06 RESOLVED, That having reviewed the Departmental
Correspondence of December 18, 2012, from Shadd A. Whitehead, Fire Chief,
requesting a step increase for Joseph Schroeder, Firefighter, based on
Mr. Schroeders previous experience as a Firefighter or Paramedic and in
accordance with past practice, the Civil Service Commission does hereby affirm
their policy and approves a step increase to Step 3 for Mr. Schroeder, to be
effective January 16, 2013.
Robert F. Biga, Human Resources Director, advised the Commission that there is a
recommendation to make two changes to the Firefighter Announcement. One change is
referencing the fact that we give preference points for a Bachelors degree. That is something
listed further in the qualifications and it is redundant to list it twice, so it needs to be removed.
The second change is to remove the visual acuity requirement at the time of application for the
Firefighter position. The visual acuity examination will be required when a candidate goes for
a pre-employment physical.
Upon a motion by Ms. Mahoney, seconded by Mr. Tatigian and adopted, it was
13-07 RESOLVED, That having reviewed the letter of November 20,
2012, from Shadd A. Whitehead, Fire Chief, requesting an open -competitive
examination for Firefighter, and proposed qualifications and parts of examination
and weights, the Civil Service Commission does hereby approve the following
qualifications and parts of examination and weights:
QUALIFICATIONS
By the closing date of the announcement, applicants must:
1. Be a citizen of the United States or a resident alien with the right to work in
the United States.
2. Have a high school diploma or valid equivalency certificate.
3. Hold a current Stale of Michigan Paramedic License or National Registry
EMT - Paramedic and be ACLS (Advanced Cardiac Life Support) certified,
or currently enrolled in a Paramedic/ACLS curriculum.
4. Possess the Conference of Western Wayne Firefighter Written and
Physical Agility Test Certificates. THE AGILITY TEST CERTIFICATE
MUST HAVE BEEN ISSUED IN THE TWELVE (12) MONTHS PRIOR TO
THE CLOSING DATE OF THE ANNOUNCEMENT.
5. Possess normal visual functions and acuity in each eye, correctable to
20/20 with eyeglasses.
6. Be free from any physical defects, chronic diseases, organic or functional
conditions or mental and emotional instabilities which may tend to impair
Page 4 1304" Regular Meeting January 16, 2013
the efficient performance of duties or which might endanger the lives of
others or the individual employee.
Possess and maintain a valid motor vehicle operator's or a basic
commercial drivers license and have an acceptable driving record.
AT THE TIME OF CERTIFICATION TO THE DEPARTMENT FOR FINAL
INTERVIEW AND HIRING CONSIDERATION, CANDIDATES MUST
POSSESS:
A. A current State of Michigan Paramedic License or National Registry
EMT - Paramedic, and be currently ACLS certified.
B. A State of Michigan Firefighter II Certificate or equivalent
certification in a state that has reciprocity.
NOTE: CANDIDATES ARE REQUIRED TO SUBMIT ORIGINAL
DEGREES/TRANSCRIPTS, LICENSES AND CERTIFICATIONS BY THE CLOSING DATE
OF THIS ANNOUNCEMENT.
PARTS OF EXAMINATION AND WEIGHTS
Written Test — 50%' Oral Interview — 50%
Background Investigation — Pass/Fail
Psychological Evaluation — Pass/Fail
'NOTE: The thirty (30) candidates with the highest passing scores on the written test will
be invited to continue to the Interview portion of the examination process. Remaining
candidates who pass the Written Test will have their names kept on file for future reference
during the life of the eligible list.
Upon a motion by Ms. Mahoney, seconded by Mr. Tatigian and adopted, it was
13-08 RESOLVED, That having reviewed the letter of December 18,
2012, from Shadd A. Whitehead, Fire Chief, requesting a promotional
examination for Sr. Fire Equipment Mechanic, and proposed qualifications and
parts of examination and weights, the Civil Service Commission does hereby
approve the following qualifications and parts of examination and weights:
QUALIFICATIONS
This examination is open only to employees of the City of Livonia who, by the closing date of
this announcement, are:
1. Employed in the Fire Department; and
2. Have regular status as Fire Equipment Mechanic with at least two (2) years of
experience in that classification; and
Page 5 1304" Regular Meeting January 16, 2013
3. Possess certification in the following: EVT Fire Pump & Accessories, Fire
Apparatus Electrical Systems, EVT Ambulance Electrical Systems, EVT
Design and Performance Standards and Preventative Maintenance of
Ambulances.
PARTS OF EXAMINATION AND WEIGHTS
Interview- 80% Departmental Rating - 20%`
`In the event there is only one (1) qualified applicant for the position, the Parts of Examination
and Weights will be 100% Departmental Rating.
Upon a motion by Ms. Mahoney, seconded by Mr. Tatigian and adopted, it was
13-09 RESOLVED, That having reviewed the letter of January 2, 2013,
from Jack E. Kirksey, Mayor, requesting a promotional examination for
Superintendent of Parks and Recreation and proposed qualifications and parts of
examination and weights, the Civil Service Commission does hereby approve the
following qualifications and parts of examination and weights:
QUALIFICATIONS
This examination is open only to employees of the City of Livonia who, by the closing date of
this announcement, have regular status in the classification of Assistant Superintendent of
Parks and Recreation.
PARTS OF EXAMINATION AND WEIGHTS
Departmental Rating —100%
Ken Grzembski, President, AFSCME Union Local 192, was present to discuss the request for
a promotional examination for Water Operations Mechanic II. Mr. Grzembski slated the
Union objected to the way the qualifications are worded which opens this examination up for
application to employees with status as Equipment Operator II, Construction Worker II or
Equipment Operator III. Mr. Grzembski stated there is a series that should be followed and
the Water Operations Mechanic I is the classification that leads into Water Operations
Mechanic II. Mr. Grzembski further stated this is a critical job. The Water Operations
Mechanics repair the water mains. The Water Operations Mechanic II is the crew leader as
well as the digger in most cases, and by including the other classifications you could be
adding someone who has never worked on a water break. Mr. Grzembski believes the City's
Water Department does one heck of a job and things work well the way things are. The
Union felt there was no need to include the other classifications. Mr. Grzembski explained
there are three Water Operations Mechanic I's currently that are working and there are
approximately four other employees with status as Water Operations Mechanic 1.
Mr. Tatigian asked Mr. Grzembski if the Union wanted to see the job qualifications remain the
same and Mr. Grzembski said yes, for safety's sake. Mr. Grzembski explained that these
employees learn on the job and if you add someone with status in a different series and they
Page 1304" Regular Meeting January 16,2013
are a crew leader and have never seen a water break, there is a learning curve and
communication that needs to happen and it is a critical job. He added it is not the safest job
in the world.
Brian Wilson, Superintendent of Public Service, explained that in the past the Department has
come to the Civil Service Commission with examination requests listing qualifications that
limited the candidates. This may have been due to the need for a specific skill set or
knowledge and the Union objected to those requests.
This request allows more employees who have the skill set and knowledge to apply for the
position. The Union is objecting to expanding the qualifications and wants them to remain the
same. This would limit applicants to just a few people. Mr. Wilson stated it was not accurate
to say that Water Operations Mechanic I's are the only employees with water main break
experience.
Mr. Wilson explained there were a couple of elements involved. There is experience with
procedures and operations on water main breaks. Also, there is the operation of a backhoe.
You can have Water Operations Mechanic I's who certainly have experience on water main
breaks but have never operated a backhoe. Conversely, in the Roads Section, you have
Equipment Operator II's and III's who have operated backhoes for years and also have years
of experience being part of water main break crews because Roads employees have routinely
been part of water main break crews. In the past, Equipment Operator III's in the Roads
section have been assigned to dig on water main repairs. Mr. Wilson distributed copies of a
previous Equipment Operator III examination announcement. At the meeting that request
was made, the Union argued to limit the qualifications, but there were also a number of
employees arguing that they have the skill set and knowledge and wished to have the ability
to take that exam. At that time, the Commission expanded the qualifications for the
Equipment Operator III examination.
Mr. Wilson stated he didn't think we should sell the people short who want to test for this
position. Everyone including the existing Water Operations Mechanic I's and Water
Operations Mechanic II's come into a job and they get training and they gain the knowledge,
skills and experience to function in that job. Part of the Commission's examination process is
a probationary period. If someone enters a position, they are going to have a probationary
period as part of the examination process. Then an evaluation would be done as part of the
Commission's examination process. Having a good pool of candidates and establishing an
eligible list with an adequate amount of people on it will not only address the current opening
but will also address future personnel needs. There are many times that additional personnel
are needed to address water main breaks.
Mr. Tatigian stated a point was made that there are seven eligible employees if you go by
status in the Water division, and he asked Mr. Wilson how many positions the Department
would need. Mr. Wilson stated they have no idea how many people would apply but there is
one opening right now and there will be a need for additional personnel in the future.
Mr. Wilson stated it was a matter of fairness to the employees who have been operating
backhoes for a number of years that they have the opportunity to test for this position just as
Water Operations Mechanic Is could test for an Equipment Operator III position.
Page ] 1304" Regular Meeting January 16, 2013
Mr. Grzembski clarified the Equipment Operator II's do not run backhoes. Mr. Wilson
disagreed with Mr. Grzembski, adding the Equipment Operator II's routinely operate backhoes
on an upgrade. Mr. Grzembski stated they appreciate the opportunity, but they would
appreciate the qualifications being Teff as is, and to backfill a position as a Water Mechanic I,
so someone else is in the pipeline for training as a Water Operations Mechanic I. If you open
up the qualifications for Water Operations Mechanic II, which is a crew leader, you could
possibly have someone that has never seen a water break and doesn't know how to repair
one. This person would be running a crew and there is a safely issue. Mr. Grzembski staled
he believed the employer just wants to adulterate the system and do away with the
classification system. The obvious thing to do would be to go in the series and to backfill it so
a Water Operations Mechanic I is promoted to Water Operations Mechanic II. Hopefully that
position would be backfilled, with someone there learning the process and ready, because it
is a hard job. The employee is working under adverse conditions.
Mr. Wilson referenced a job announcement for Equipment Operator III from 2011 and there
was no argument from the Union at that Civil Service Commission meeting. Ms. Mahoney
inquired if the Department added the Water Operations Mechanic II and Construction Worker
II to the Equipment Operator III. Mr. Wilson confirmed that was part of their request to the
Civil Service Commission. Mr. Grzembski stated the Union objected to that and there was
one employee who wanted it so they discussed it with Management. Mr. Wilson stated there
was more than one employee and there were employees on both sides of the expansion of
eligibility to lake that examination. Mr. Wilson further explained that the Department opened
that announcement up to backhoe operators from the Water section. All the Department is
requesting now is to open this up to backhoe operators in the Roads section. In regards to
them not having any water main break experience, there are operators in the Roads section
that for years, have worked on water main break repairs. It was not accurate to say those
people don't work water main breaks.
Mr. Grzembski said Mr. Wilson said Equipment Operator II's are not backhoe operators.
Equipment Operator III's are backhoe operators. Mr. Wilson milemted there are Equipment
Operator II's that are routinely upgraded to Equipment Operator III and operate backhoes all
season long and have done so for years. Mr. Grzembski didn't think it was too often, but
agreed that yes, during leaf season, they operate a backhoe, but not the backhoe part that
involves digging, they operate a claw that picks up the leaves in the street, not the digging
part.
Ken Widmer, Chief Roads steward, introduced himself and stated he works in the Water
section. He believed what needed to be clarified was the actual steps in the different
sections. He believed the Water section was its own entity. Mr. Widmer stated it was just a
little over a month ago they moved all of the Equipment Operator II's and they are no longer
allowed to work on water breaks. He stated when you work in the Water section; you are a
Water Operator Mechanic I and you are repairing water breaks. After a certain amount of
time and a job opens up, you move up to a Water Operations Mechanic II, which means you
are a tractor operator and crew leader for the water breaks. You are there to not only run the
crew, but to help train the Water Operations Mechanic I's on how the operation works. When
you work in the Roads section, it is a whole different cycle. The Equipment Operator II's in
the Roads section are truck drivers and that's all. They are not allowed to work on water
breaks any longer. An Equipment Operator III in the Roads section drives a tractor, but they
only use the tractors for Roads operations. So if you were a Water Operations Mechanic 11
Page 8 1304" Regular Meeting January 16, 2013
working on water breaks, you are running the tractor and running the crew. If you are in the
Roads section, on any of these positions, being an Equipment Operator II, Construction
Worker III or an Equipment Operator III, you have no experience. These employees don't
know what they are doing on a water break. For them to act as a crew leader is just wrong
and it's not safe and not appropriate.
Mr. Wilson wanted to correct a few things. The Department doesn't have separate entities. It
is one department and they use resources where they have to in the Department, whether it is
for water main breaks, snow storms or any other emergencies. Mr. Wilson again reiterated
that this issue involves the operation of a backhoe. There are backhoe operators in the
Roads section that have worked on water main repairs. Mr. Wilson further stated current and
past employees in that classification have done that work. It is being said that people in the
Roads section have no experience on water main breaks, he wanted to reiterate again, that
people in the Roads section have worked on water main breaks for years.
Cheryl Wallman, Senior Engineering Inspector, stated she was a Water Operations Mechanic
I and she fixed water mains. Water Operation Mechanics don't just fix water mains. There is
a lot of training, a lot of hard physical work, and your co-workers need to trust you. The
Foremen rate the Water Mechanic Operator I's; they train them. They would do the rating on
the promotional examination and maybe someone wants to get promoted to a Water
Operations Mechanic II but they are not meeting that standard. You could take care of that
in-house. There are three people in the Water section with status as Water Operations
Mechanic I right now, but there are seven people total with status who could promote to
Water Operations Mechanic II. From what Ms. Wallman heard from the workers, safety
becomes an important issue if there is a change. Ms. Wallman stated she works in the
Engineering Department now and she watches on the ground excavations all the time. Safety
is a very big thing and that's why she attended tonight's meeting because she worked in that
Department. Ms. Wallman stated she worked in Water and in Sewer, but when she worked
as a Water Operations Mechanic it was hard work. The Water Operations Mechanic II is not
just a backhoe operator. When you have someone digging, you want someone you can trust
with your life and that's why they are promoted.
Mr. Wilson slated that Roads operators do digging with backhoes all the time and have done
so on water main breaks. Ms. Wallman stated she has been with the City for 26 years and
she could only think of onetime, and it was not a very good experience. For whatever reason
they had to get on a tractor and start digging and soil conditions were terrible. The hole grows
when you are digging, it can become as big as a basement. You have slaking going, there
are homeowners all around, and there are live wires. Ms. Wallman recalled there was an
employee that died and she asked if the Commission remembered Virg. She just wanted that
integrity and to respect the position. She wasn't saying the employees are not flexible, the
employees are so flexible; they will drive a truck when you need them to, help out when you
need them to, and come in during the middle of the night. She was just asking that
Management respect the job and the safety aspect. Mr. Biga indicated that he had personal
knowledge of the Virgil Wheaton death. That situation had nothing to do with qualifications
for promotion to Water Operations Mechanic.
Mr. Tatigian had a question for Ken Grzembski. There are three additional classifications
being requested in Qualification #2 and he asked if Mr. Grzembski thought that all three of
these were not qualified. Mr. Grzembski stated the Union wants to keep it as it was.
Page 9 1304" Regular Meeting January 16, 2013
Mr. Tatigian asked of the three, which Mr. Grzembski felt was the most under qualified.
Mr. Grzembski responded the one who has digging experience is the Equipment Operator III;
they do run backhoes on a semi -regular basis. He stated they help out on water breaks and
do the digging. He cited an example of last year there was an Equipment Operator III working
on a water break and he got stuck in the mud 2 or 3 times and had to have the garage
employees help pull the backhoe out.
Mr. Tatigian then asked Mr. Wilson, which one of the three he felt was the least qualified. Mr.
Wilson stated the only reason they kept the Construction Worker II was consistency from the
previous request.
Kimberly Buchholz -Lewis introduced herself and stated she was the only Construction Worker
II and she had no interest in this job due to the fact that it is dangerous. She felt the same
way the Union does. She stated she has been down in holes and when a Water Operations
Mechanic drives a tractor, they can hit a sewer main and she is the one that has to go down
there. She likes to know who is driving the tractor and that the person has come up through
the ranks, not a person that has never been in the tractor or has only been driving one for two
weeks. Ms. Buchholz -Lewis further stated many times the people in the Water section might
get daily upgrades to a tractor if other operators are not there, so they have gotten a little bit
of training, however, she believes this involves a full training process.
Mr. Tatigian asked Ms. Buchholz -Lewis if as a Construction Worker II, she had any objection
to that classification being deleted and she replied she did not. Mr. Wilson stated he had no
objection to that being dropped from the qualifications, but a good point was made regarding
experience.
Ms. Mahoney explained that this change in the qualifications expands the base of individuals
that could apply. Whether the individuals actually apply or not is their decision. Ms. Mahoney
reiterated there are approximately seven employees with regular status as a Water
Operations Mechanic I; three Equipment Operator II's, one Construction Worker II, and two
Equipment Operator III's eligible to apply for the examination. She asked if Mr. Wilson looked
at the best qualified among those individuals, which in her mind, would be one of the seven
with status as a Water Operations Mechanic I. If Management reviewed the qualifications of
a Construction Worker II, and consider that vs. the seven individuals who have been doing
this job in some way, shape, or form, it opens the possibility for application, it doesn't say
someone less qualified is going to get the job.
Mr. Wilson explained that there is a performance examination, not a written test. The
performance test on the backhoe would be given in different kinds of conditions at the
Glendale Yard. Ms. Mahoney said if someone had never driven a backhoe before, they might
not do well. Mr. Wilson explained that they afford each employee up to two (2), two-hour
training blocks prior to the examination. There is a trained operator that works with the
examinees and provides the training prior to the actual test.
Ms. Mahoney asked how the rater would judge them using a backhoe. Mr. Wilson explained
there is an outside evaluator; someone from another community, who comes in and does the
evaluations. There is also an integral part of this examination process, which is the
probationary period. Mr. Grzembski stated the training is just digging the hole, not fixing the
Page 10 1304' Regular Meeting January 16, 2013
water break or knowing anything about a water break. Ms. Mahoney asked if there are seven
potential employees who could fill the vacancy, what is the thinking behind opening it up to
other individuals may or may not be as qualified as those seven. Mr. Wilson disagreed with
the language "may or may not be as qualified" because you have individuals with status as
Water Operations Mechanic I's that have never operated a backhoe.
Robert F. Biga, Human Resources Director, asked Mr. Grzembski if he could name some
classifications that work on water breaks on a routine or regular basis, aside from Water
Operations Mechanic I's. Mr. Grzembski replied Water Operations Mechanic I's and II's are
the primary people to work on these. Mr. Biga asked if there was an overtime situation, who
else might be called. Mr. Grzembski stated they used to call in truck drivers, who are
Equipment Operator II's, but not to work on the water main breaks. Mr. Biga asked who else
works in the hole. Mr. Biga stated the Sewer Maintenance Workers do and asked what about
a Water Meter Repairer. Mr. Grzembski stated they were not listed on Qualification #2 and
they didn't want to open this up any more than that. Mr. Biga said he was trying to convey
that just because a classification works on a water break, the department is not listing all
classifications as being qualified. The Department is looking at classifications within the
system that would have some skills and potential, and looking for some continuity across
classifications to give people different promotional opportunities. Whether the person applies
or not is up to the individual.
According to Mr. Grzembski, the Equipment Operator II's do not operate a backhoe so they
have no business being listed on the qualifications. Mr. Grzembski slated the Construction
Worker II is the one doing the repairs on the sewers and goes in holes. The Union would like
the qualifications remain the same. Ms. Mahoney stated she was confused why the issue is,
not opening up an opportunity to other members of the Union. Assuming the individual was
qualified, and if they needed additional training, anyone should be able to get additional
training. If the individual that was stuck in the mud happened to be an Equipment Operator,
or Water Operations Mechanic II, she couldn't imagine the circumstances weren't the best
and even the best backhoe driver in the world could get stuck in the mud. Mr. Grzembski
stated there is a series and the integrity of the series should be maintained. Mr. Grzembski
stated that he noticed a request for Superintendent of Parks and Recreation, so because he
works in Parks, he could apply for that. He asked the Commission to be realistic. Just
because he worked in Parks doesn't mean he could have applied for the Superintendent of
Parks and Recreation job. Mr. Grzembski said this is serious and it is nothing against Mr.
Wilson, but the employees that have literally been in the trenches are the Water Operations
Mechanic I's. They are there to Team the job and are waiting to be Water Operations
Mechanic II's.
Ken Widmer stated regarding the individual getting stuck in the mud, the individual was a
Construction Worker and he worked on construction jobs with the backhoe operator. He
wanted to be upgraded to the tractor operator that also only worked on the construction jobs.
Mr. Wilson indicated the Construction Worker II has worked on sewer repairs as part of a
water break repair. Mr. Widmer explained that the sewer damage occurred during a water
break. The Construction Worker would repair the sewer but they have no working knowledge
as far as repairing the water main or the services that have to do with a water job. Mr.
Tatigian slated this request was mainly to allow more people to apply for these jobs but it
doesn't mean they will get the job.
Page 11 1304" Regular Meeting January 16, 2013
Ms. Mahoney discussed qualification #3 and Mr. Wilson clarified that under the contract all
non -clerical and non-custodial personnel were required to get a CDL -A. Many employees
already had a CDL -B and they upgraded it to a CDL -A. Mr. Wilson explained that the CDL is
a federal requirement as far as operation of equipment on the public roadways. The forklift is
a separate requirement and every non -clerical and non-custodial employee is certified on the
forklift. No one would get disqualified on the basis of qualification #3.
Mr. Widmer stated the only problem with the request is the addition of the other
classifications. Employees in those classifications work in different sections and they don't
have the experience. The main problem is when you list in the Description of Work that the
individual would act as a crew leader. The only way to be a crew leader on a job is to know
that job inside and out. The only people that have that knowledge are people with status as a
Water Operations Mechanic I.
Mr. Wilson clarified that Mr. Widmer was not a Water Operations Mechanic and Mr. Widmer
said that was correct; he works in the sewer section as a Sewer Maintenance Worker I.
Mr. Wilson stated they utilize personnel from the sewer, water, and roads sections to work on
water main breaks. Mr. Widmer stated in the water section they have Water Meter Repairers,
the Water Operations Mechanics and Sewer Maintenance Workers. In the case of the water
main breaks, the only people that do any of the repairs are the Water Operations Mechanics
and the Sewer Maintenance Workers. The Union wants the qualifications to remain as is
because Water Operations Mechanics work on these water main breaks day in and day out.
Mr. Wilson reiterated there are Water Operations Mechanic I's that have never operated a
backhoe. Mr. Tatigian questioned why the Union objected to other members of their Union
being able to apply for this, it just opens it up and the best person will get the job. Mr. Widmer
slated they already know that the best people for the job are the Water Operations Mechanic
I's. Mr. Tatigian stated not if they don't have the experience with the backhoe.
Mr. Grzembski felt that is something that is learned on the job. Mr. Grzembski stated
Mr. Wilson had assisted before in that operation, but asked if he thought he could lead that
operation? Mr. Wilson said no.
Ms. Mahoney hoped that an employee who applied for this position believed that they could
perform the crew leader tasks. Ms. Mahoney stated all they were doing was opening this up
an opportunity for individuals who believe they can do that to prove it to management.
Mr. Grzembski thought some employees would just take a promotion to make more money,
with total disregard for safety. Ms. Mahoney stated they assumed management was
intelligent enough to recognize that when they tested an individual, if the only thing they are
about is more money, they probably aren't functioning very well at what they are doing now.
Mr. Grzembski asked if that was what they call an "extrinsic motivation," the money.
Management might not get the best qualified person. The Water Operations Mechanics have
been working in that department and they know about the water breaks and what the job
entails. Mr. Grzembski agreed that yes, there would be training on the backhoe, but the
Water Operations Mechanics know the whole job. Mr. Grzembski stated it is not a fun job
and he wouldn't want to crawl down into a hole under adverse conditions to fix a water main
break.
Page 12 1304" Regular Meeting January 16, 2013
Mr. Widmer said the lest for this job is to take a backhoe and get four hours of training and
dig a hole under dry conditions. Mr. Wilson cautioned Mr. Widmer about staling what goes on
in the examination. He advised this examination process has not been established yet.
Mr. Wilson explained he would have the roads, water and sewer people set up this
examination and the potential candidates would do digging under conditions that may mimic
what might be found on the worksite. Mr. Grzembski asked if there would be running water
and would the employee have to know how to fix it. Mr. Wilson stated he was not prepared to
give the entire process of the examination, but he wanted to be clear it is not right to tell
potential candidates what the examination would entail.
Ms. Mahoney did not want to close down the opportunity. She wanted to have faith in the
process to select the best person for this position. Ms. Mahoney thought we needed to be
consistent with what we had and offer the opportunity throughout the department to have
individuals apply for this job.
Audrey Young, Equipment Operator II, stated for the last performance test for Equipment
Operator III, they didn't have to dig a hole; they pulled a trailer around with a big dump truck
and pulled the tractor up a trail.
Ms. Mahoney asked if Mr. Wilson said the performance test has yet to be totally developed.
Mr. Wilson stated he will work with the Civil Service Department on the development of the
test.
Mr. Biga stated when you are looking at qualifications for a job, you look at what kind of skills
you want to have someone possess before they move up. The Department is expanding
what kinds of qualifications people can have, not just having been a Water Operations
Mechanic I or just having worked on a water repair crew. This is a chance for equipment
operators to have an opportunity to get promoted and then they will learn the water
maintenance aspect while they are on the crew. They will bring different capabilities to that
job. They will have crew leader experience or they have skills in operating equipment. Not
everyone who can repair a water break wants to operate a backhoe. The Union has already
had testimony to that effect. There are Sewer Maintenance Workers that have worked in
water repair. We have had Water Meter Repairers who have worked on water main repairs.
There are Equipment Operators who have been working in water repair. There is a wide
variety of individuals and they can learn those particular jobs. Mr. Biga further stated you
want someone that has the skills to operate the equipment. The employees can self-select,
apply for the position and they will be tested because they will go through an examination
process. The Department also has a Departmental Rating that they can use as a way of
separating individuals. On this basis, you want to have as many people apply as possible
apply for the position.
Mr. Grzembski asked if there has ever been a Water Operations Mechanic II that has failed
their probation. Mr. Biga couldn't think of anyone but the Civil Service Department could find
out. Mr. Grzembski stated he didn't think anyone ever had. It shows the right individuals are
performing in the position. The probationary period is one of the most important parts of the
lest, so why would the Department even risk it?
Ms. Mahoney staled Mr. Grzembski was making an assumption that none of the seven are
even going to be considered. Mr. Grzembski said they could be beat out on seniority points.
Page 13 1304" Regular Meeting January 16, 2013
Ms. Wallman stated the employee has to know all the aspects of the job. Knowing how to
drive the equipment is one aspect, but it's not the only aspect.
Mr. Wilson stated there is no single one of us that have walked into a job and known all the
aspects of the job. That is why there is training, mentoring and a probationary period.
Ms. Mahoney stated when you are looking at an individual for this job you are not just looking
at how they can drive a backhoe. Mr. Wilson stated that is one part of the examination
process, there is also a Departmental Rating which would encompass the knowledge, abilities
in backhoes and water main repairs, and other repairs that may be encountered in the
classification they have been in. There are Custodians that get promoted to Water
Operations Mechanic I. They walk into that position really knowing nothing and they learn
about water operations. Mr. Grzembski asked who teaches them. Mr. Grzembski said it was
the Water Operations Mechanic Its. Mr. Grzembski commented that they look at the integrity
of the series and stated it was almost like an apprenticeship. You are learning all aspects of
the job. Now, the Department is adding more digging. Mr. Grzembski stated he hoped no
one got hurt doing this.
Mr. Widmer again reiterated that one of the reasons they want to keep the qualifications as
they are is Management believes that all employees in DPW are qualified for every job so
they would like to have as many different positions on every machine as possible, but Mr.
Widmer said, it's not true and it's not safe.
Mr. Wilson found it interesting when the Union came to the Commission a few months ago
they argued when qualifications were limited to a specific job with a very specific skill set. So
he disagreed with that.
Mr. Grzembski stated that in that instance it was because the qualifications were being
changed for Engineering Assistant I and they wanted those qualifications kept the same.
Ms. Mahoney stated no one wants to put anyone in harm's way, but it is highly possible that a
Water Operations Mechanic I could get the job, but to open it up to more individuals to apply
and be tested is important in today's environment and to allow individuals to have individual
choices.
Upon a motion by Ms. Mahoney, seconded by Mr. Tatigian and adopted, it was
13-10 RESOLVED, That having reviewed the letter of January 3, 2013,
from Brian Wilson, Superintendent of Public Service and Kevin Maillard, Director
of Public Works, requesting a promotional examination for Water Operations
Mechanic II and proposed qualifications and parts of examination and weights,
and having discussion with Ken Grzembski, President, AFSCME Union Local
192; Brian Wilson, Superintendent of Public Service; Ken Widmer, Sewer
Maintenance Worker I; Cheryl Wallman, Senior Engineering Inspector; Kimberly
Buchholz -Lewis, Construction Worker 11; Audrey Young, Equipment Operator 11;
and Robert Biga, Human Resources Director, the Civil Service Commission does
hereby approve the following qualifications and parts of examination and
weights:
Page 14 1304" Regular Meeting January 16, 2013
QUALIFICATIONS
This examination is open to employees of the City of Livonia, who, by the closing date of this
announcement:
Are employed in the Department of Public Works; and
Have regular status as a Water Operations Mechanic I, Equipment
Operator II, Construction Worker II or Equipment Operator III; and
Possess a valid Group "A" Commercial Driver's License with Air Brake
designation and must have or be eligible for a valid Industrial Truck
Driving Permit for operation of a forklift. An employee in this classification
is subject to all requirements of the Federal Omnibus Transportation
Employee Testing Act of 1991, as amended; and
Able to lift at least seventy-five (75) pounds.
PARTS OF EXAMINATION AND WEIGHTS
Performance Test -80% Departmental Rating -20%
Candidates must pass the Performance Test in order to be placed on the eligible list.
Pursuant to AFSCME Local 192 contract, PROMOTIONS 20.b in competitive examinations,
which include Department Ratings, the Departmental Rating from 0 to 100 will count as 20% of
the examination, but a score of under 70 will not disqualify the candidate from continuing the
process.
At the request of the Department and by direction of Chairman Tatigian, Agenda item 10,
regarding the letter of January 3, 3013, from Brian Wilson, Superintendent of Public Service
and Kevin Maillard, Director of Public Works, requesting an open -competitive examination for
Equipment Mechanic I and proposed qualification and parts of examination and weights, will
be removed from the agenda until such time the Department requests it be placed back on an
agenda for review.
Ken Grzembski, President, AFSCME Union Local 192, requested that the Commission put off
their review of the letter of January 7, 2013, from Dennis Wright, City Treasurer, requesting
an open -competitive examination for Teller I and proposed qualifications and parts of
examination and weights, because the Union did not have a chance to review the information.
Sharon Dolmetsch, Deputy Treasurer, requested that it not be put off. Mr. Grzembski agreed
to present this to the members of Local 192 and provide notice to the Civil Service
Department within one week at such time a special Civil Service Commission meeting will be
scheduled. The Commissioners agreed to have a special meeting within two weeks to review
the request for the Teller I (RPT) open -competitive examination.
Upon a motion by Ms. Mahoney, seconded by Mr. Tatigian and adopted, it was
13-11 RESOLVED, That having reviewed the letter of January 9, 2013,
from Donald L. Knapp, Jr., City Attorney II, requesting an open -competitive
Page 15 1304" Regular Meeting January 16, 2013
examination for Assistant City Attorney II, and proposed qualifications and parts
of examination and weights, the Civil Service Commission does hereby approve
the following qualifications and parts of examination and weights:
QUALIFICATIONS
By the closing date of the announcement, applicants must:
Be a citizen of the United States or a resident alien with the right to work
in the United States; and
Have been admitted to the practice of Law in the State of Michigan and be
in good standing with the Michigan State Bar Association; and
Have a minimum of eight (8) years of full-time paid work experience as an
attorney in the practice of law outside of a municipality or a minimum of
four (4) years of full-time paid work experience as a municipal attorney. It
is preferred that candidates have experience, and expertise in two or
more of the following areas: criminal law and procedure, appeals to the
Michigan Tax Tribunal, tort litigation, labor relations, zoning law,
commercial litigation, contract drafting, and/or property law.
PARTS OF EXAMINATION AND WEIGHTS
Interview - 85%
Writing Sample —15%'
'NOTE: In the event the number of qualified applicants exceeds fifteen (15), an evaluation will
be made and the fifteen (15) applicants with the most appropriate and responsible combination
of experience and training will be interviewed.
Robert Biga, Human Resources Director, stated as a result of the many vacancies in the
Police and Fire departments, the uniformed employees have not been able to take their time
off. Rather than bring individual requests to extend their vacation carry over to the Civil
Service Commission, Mr. Biga spoke with both the Police and Fire Chiefs and he
recommended we eliminate the maximum cut off for Police and Fire uniformed personnel this
year with the understanding that in the future the employees will have to get their vacation
balances down to appropriate levels. In the event that an employee terminates employment,
they will have to reduce their vacation levels down before they leave.
Upon a motion by Ms. Mahoney, seconded by Mr. Tatigian and unanimously adopted, it was
13-12 RESOLVED, That having reviewed the memorandum of January
11, 2013, from Robert F. Biga, Human Resources Director, regarding vacation
carryover for Police and Fire uniformed employees, the Civil Service Commission
does hereby approve a one-time extension of excess annual maximum vacation
carryover until December 31, 2013, at such time the matter will be reviewed.
Upon a motion by Ms. Mahoney, seconded by Mr. Tatigian and adopted, it was
13-13 RESOLVED, That having reviewed the request from Curtis Caid,
Police Chief, and memorandum of January 16, 2013, from Derrick L.
Page 16 1304" Regular Meeting January 16, 2013
Washington, Personnel Analyst II, to Robert F. Biga, Human Resources Director,
requesting an ongoing open -competitive examination for Police Service Aide and
proposed qualifications and parts of examination and weights, the Civil Service
Commission does hereby approve the following qualifications and parts of
examination and weights:
QUALIFICATIONS
By the closing date of this announcement, applicants must:
Be a citizen of the United States or resident alien with the right to work in
the United States; and
Be at least eighteen (18) years old; and
Have a high school diploma or a valid equivalency certificate, and
Possess and maintain a valid drivers license; and
Be free from any physical defects, chronic diseases, organic diseases,
organic or functional conditions, or mental and emotional instabilities
which may tend to impair the efficient perfonnance of duties or which
might endanger the lives of others or the individual employee; and meet
all physical requirements as determined by the Civil Service Commission
and a physician appointed by the City of Livonia
Possess an MCOLES Physical Agility, United States Army or Marines
Physical Fitness test certificate, illustrating successful completion, dated
within the preceding twelve (12) months of the closing date of this
announcement.
Possess normal hearing, normal color vision, and normal visual functions
and acuity in each eye in accordance with the Civil Service Commission
approved Visual Acuity Standards adopted as attached.
PARTS OF EXAMINATION AND WEIGHTS
Written Test -50% Chiefs Interview -50%
The results at each stage in the application process will detennine eligibility to continue onto
subsequent steps. The process will include application review, written test, personal history
questionnaire and a Chiefs interview. The background investigation and the psychological
evaluation will be done after the eligible list has been established and the candidate certified to
the department.
Upon a motion by Ms. Mahoney, seconded by Mr. Tatigian and adopted, it was
RESOLVED, that the meeting be adjourned at 6:48 p.m.
Gretchen Guisbert, Secretary III
Harry C. Tatigian, Chairman
Charlotte Mahoney, Commissioner