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Paj 1
LEGISLATIVE, FINANCE, AND ADMINISTRATION COMMITTEE
The Legislative, Finance, and Administration Committee meeting was held on June 11, 2012 at
5:30 p.m. with Chairman Lynn presiding. Members present were Mr. Anderson, Mr. Hare,
Mr. Rushe, and Mr. Shevock. Members of Council present were Mrs. Russell, Mr. Perza,
Mr. Bonar, Mr. Hutchison, and Council President Leary. Mayor Carey was also present.
AGENDA ADDITIONS/DELETIONS
Mr. Lynn requested that Items #1 and #2 be reversed in order of sequence as well as Items #4 and #5.
Mr. Anderson moved for approval of the agenda, as amended, seconded by Mr. Shevock and
unanimously carried.
Review and Recommendation - Filling Critical Positions - Library Clerk II - Dover Public
Library
Mr. Scott Koenig, City Manager, reviewed a request to fill a Library Clerk II position in the
Dover Public Library. He stated that it was anticipated that the individual selected would begin
employment on or about August 1, 2012. He reminded members that, as the opening of the new
Library approaches, it will be imperative that the City return to the previous staffing level of the
Library in order to maintain the current level of service. This position was previously budgeted and
has remained unfilled. Although it was not included in the FY12 budget, it has been included in the
FY13 budget. He estimated the budgetary impact for wages and benefits at $40,245.
Mr. Anderson moved to recommend approval of the request to fill the position of Library
Clerk II, as recommended by staff, seconded by Mr. Shevock and unanimously carried.
Proposed 15% Healthcare Premium Cost Sharing Arrangement - Non-Bargaining Only
(Referred Back to Staff by City Council on May 29, 2012 for Further Evaluation)
During the Council Committee of the Whole Meeting on May 29, 2012, members considered a
proposal submitted by the City Manager for a 15% healthcare premium cost sharing arrangement for
non-bargaining employees. After much discussion, the Committee recommended that the proposal
be referred back to staff for further evaluation.
Mr. Scott Koenig, City Manager, read a memorandum dated June 7, 2012, from the City Manager
to Members of the Legislative, Finance, and Administration Committee regarding Health Insurance
Premiums for Non-Bargaining Employees, as follows:
During the Council Committee of the Whole meeting on Tuesday, May 29, 2012, a
motion was made to refer the issue of a 15% cost sharing contribution for all
non-bargaining employees back to the City Manager for further consideration.
Attached are eight (8) different cost sharing scenarios as described, as well as, the
estimated annualized savings to the City if the scenario were to be implemented for
non-bargaining employees:
1) HB81 $ 44,973
2) Premiums Based Upon First State Basic $ 46,547
3) Stepped Percentage (10, 15, 18 & 20) $ 58,057
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4) Stepped Percentage (10, 15, 20 & 20) $ 60,170
5) 15% Across the Board (City Manager's Preferred Option) $ 66,559
6) Stepped Percentage (12, 15, 18 & 21) $ 66,724
7) Stepped Percentage (10, 15, 20 & 25) $ 66,835
8) Additional 15% to All Current Percentages $ 114,554
I also held a meeting on Monday, June 4, 2012 with a group of approximately
thirteen (13) non-bargaining employees to receive their ideas and feedback on the
City Manager's original 15% Across the Board proposal. Several revenue
generating proposals were put forth by staff that could be implemented to generate
additional revenue for the city. The employees also expressed a number of concerns
that I would like the opportunity to relay to the committee during a brief verbal
update to the committee on Monday night. I am therefore requesting a few minutes
at the podium to further express their concerns to the committee.
Mr. Koenig noted that members had received spreadsheets with details regarding the eight (8)
scenarios as well as the “Other Postemployment Benefit GASB 45 Actuarial Valuation,” which
indicated an unfunded Other Post-Employment Benefit (OPEB) liability for the City of Dover in the
amount of $76,393,013, as of June 30, 2012.
Mr. Koenig advised members that the ideas that employees had suggested as revenue-generating
proposals related to itinerant merchant licenses, rental and lodging fees, business license fees, open
gym fees, downtown banner fees, etc. Several of these fees, such as business licenses, had been
brought before City Council in previous years and were not supported. As a result, it was his feeling
that staff could not present such revenue ideas to offset the unfunded liability costs. He reiterated
that the unfunded liability was a long-term issue that he was attempting to address through the cost
sharing proposal and that each employee has a vested interest in ensuring that the benefit will be
available in retirement.
Mr. Koenig stated that non-bargaining employees also relayed concerns about representation, since
they were not unionized. He explained his difficulty in representing both sides of the issue. He
indicated that the non-bargaining employees were concerned that they would become an isolated
group in this matter, and that the 15% cost-sharing would be implemented for them and not be
carried through to the unions. Mr. Koenig indicated that he could make no guarantees in this regard,
since his role was to make proposals rather than to act on them. Although his intent was to bring
forward proposals that would achieve the same scenario for union employees, he could not guarantee
their approval.
Mr. Koenig stated that concerns were also relayed by employees who were eligible or nearly eligible
for retirement that the City was “changing the game” near the end of their careers, and they
questioned if implementation of the proposal could be delayed for employees with significant years
of service. He explained the difficulty of implementing the proposal “fairly” since others would feel
that such a proposal was unfair. In addition, he stated that employees have brought up the possibility
of providing a phase-in for the proposal. He noted that when the State proposed HB81,
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COMMITTEE MEETING OF JUNE 11, 2012 PAGE 3
approximately 18 months prior notice was provided to employees that they would begin to pay for
health insurance. Mr. Koenig stated that, because of the timing of the budget and the expiration of
union contracts, he was unable to work with that type of horizon and reminded members that the
draft budget included a “tag line” for 15% healthcare cost sharing across the board, with a credit of
approximately $250,000 to the budget if approved. The credit for non-bargaining employees would
only be approximately $66,750. Therefore, he stated that the budget submitted to Council included
an assumption that on July 1, 2012, 15% healthcare sharing across the board would be implemented
for all four (4) of the employee groups (non-bargaining employees and all three (3) union groups).
As previously indicated, he explained he could not disclose the nature of collective bargaining
discussions or agreements. He also could not guarantee that all three (3) union contracts would be
signed by July 1, 2012.
Mr. Koenig stated that the non-bargaining employees also reminded him and wanted members of
Council to be aware that they received no step or Pay-for-Performance increases in FY12 and that
the current draft budget for FY13 did not allow for any non-bargaining increases.
At the request of Mrs. Mitchell, Controller/Treasurer, Mr. Koenig advised members that, of the eight
(8) scenarios, only two (2) had been studied and analyzed by the City’s Actuary - Scenarios #1
(HB81) and #5 - 15% across the board. As such, he stated that these were the only two (2) options
that provided certainty regarding the City’s long-term liabilities. He noted that, over the past two
(2) years, the City had spent approximately $57,000 for the Actuary’s work for the Health Benefits
Committee to assist in determining which options would benefit the City’s long-term liabilities. He
reminded members that this was not a one-time budget concern but a long-term issue for the City.
Mr. Koenig noted the receipt of several letters and other correspondence from various employees
which were submitted for consideration (Attachment #1). He reminded members that, as the City
Manager, he represented employees, Council, rate payers, and taxpayers to the best of his ability, and
as such, he recommended the 15% across-the-board proposal. Mr. Koenig stated that this
recommendation was based on all information provided, including the independent administrative
evaluation. He considered this the option that would cause the least harm to the organization. He
acknowledged that employees receiving individual healthcare would be the most affected; however,
he felt that this was a fair proposal when viewed over the span of an employee’s career.
In response to Mr. Shevock, Mrs. Donna Mitchell, Controller/Treasurer, stated that the City follows
State guidelines, including the requirement of an affidavit regarding spousal coverage, and the
coverage that the City’s employees have is predicated on those forms being completed; therefore,
any change in coverage as a result of these forms was built into the budget. She was not aware of
the savings that this provided, if there were a savings, since this was already included in the budget.
Noting that the City pays 75% for dependent coverage and that dependent coverage for State
employees is paid 100% by the employee, Mr. Shevock questioned if the City had considered this
option. Responding, Mr. Koenig stated that staff had considered this option; however, due to the
costs and the employees who would be affected (primarily those below mid-level management), it
was determined that some of the City’s lower paid employees would not be able to afford this
insurance.
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Mr. Anderson relayed appreciation for the work staff had conducted on this matter and supported
the efforts to contain costs for the City. He questioned if the City should take a position before the
provisions of the union contracts were known, explaining his concerns regarding parity and fairness.
Responding, Mr. Koenig stated his desire to be fair and estimated that signed contracts with the
unions should be obtained by August or September, and possibly sooner. He indicated concern that
if the Committee were to recommend approval of staff’s recommendation, this matter would be
considered by City Council on June 25, 2012, with a possible implementation date of July 1, 2012.
This would create an administrative problem for employees wishing to retire. Should members wish
to delay implementation until September 1, 2012 for current employees, he felt that this could be
handled administratively and would not affect the proposed budget. However, he suggested that
there be a caveat included that any new non-bargaining employees hired would be responsible for
the 15% cost sharing for healthcare costs.
Responding to Mr. Lynn, Mr. Koenig advised members that in discussions with other managers
throughout the State, it appeared that almost every municipality was unique, noting that some were
completely non-unionized, others did not offer any post-employment benefits, and others intermingle
health insurance with Workman’s Compensation insurance. As a result, it was difficult to obtain an
“apples to apples” comparison. He advised members that employees who were hired in recent years
from the private sector had indicated to him that even if required to pay the 15%, they would still be
paying less than they paid previously.
Mr. Koenig noted that the Controller/Treasurer indicated that if HB81 were applied to all City
employees and retirees, this would be the best option for the City and would actually reduce
healthcare costs for some employees; however, staff has had a difficult time discussing this issue as
it pertains to retirees. He reminded members that one of the recommendations of the Health Benefits
Committee was for the City not to take action regarding retirees’ healthcare.
At the request of Mr. Lynn, Mr. Perza stated that the report of the Salary and Benefits Compensation
Comparison Committee, which includes information comparing healthcare and retirement benefits
of various jurisdictions, had not yet been released. To his recollection, the comparison included
larger towns such as Newark, Wilmington, Middletown, Dover, Harrington, Smyrna, Lewes, etc.,
as well as the three (3) Delaware counties and the State of Delaware. He confirmed that there was
some form of cost sharing across the board; however, this varied by degree depending on the size
of the municipality. There was no consistent percentage or unified factor for cost sharing.
In response to Mr. Hutchison, Mr. Koenig confirmed that one year ago, the City’s budget reflected
a $3.4M shortfall. Over the past year, that deficit had been reduced to approximately $630,000 and
there has been a reduction of 12 employees. He advised members that the five (5) year projection
for the General Fund budget reflected a $2M deficit in FY14, which must be addressed by adjusting
the budget, gaining an increase in economic activity, cutting costs, or a combination of these
approaches.
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Responding to Mr. Anderson, Mr. Koenig stated that the scenario recommended by staff would have
no impact on current retirees. If the recommendation were approved for implementation on
July 1, 2012, employees who retired after that date would carry the 15% cost sharing into retirement.
Referring to Scenario #7, Mr. Bonar requested that the City Manager provide more detail and an
explanation of the stepped percentages which he stated varied between a financial contribution of
$58,057 and $66,835. Mr. Koenig explained that the steps were based on the percentage of
contribution; for example, on Spreadsheet #3, an employee with only “employee” coverage would
pay 10% of the premium for the plan selected, an employee with “child” coverage would pay 15%
of the premium for the plan selected, an employee with “spouse” coverage would pay 18% of the
premium for the plan selected, and an employee with “family” coverage would pay 20% of the
premium for the plan selected.
Mr. Bonar questioned if an analysis had been performed for a stepped cost sharing based on years
of service. Responding, Mr. Koenig stated that such an analysis was not conducted, since he
personally had multiple years of service and he did not want his recommendation to be considered
self-serving. He advised members that there were 78 non-bargaining employees and, although staff
had the data to conduct such an analysis, they would have to bring the information forward at a later
time. Although he understood the position of the City Manager, Mr. Bonar indicated that it was the
role of staff to present recommendations and it was ultimately Council’s decision as to the final
action taken on matters. He felt that a stepped cost sharing based on years of service would be more
palatable.
In response to Mr. Bonar’s suggestion, Mrs. Donna Mitchell, Controller/Treasurer, reminded
members that entry-level employees, who are paid at a lower rate, would be hit hardest under such
a proposal. Although in most instances higher paid employees have been employed by the City the
longest, she noted this was not always the case, such as newly employed department heads.
Mr. Lynn opened the floor for public comment and reminded all that each individual was provided
three (3) minutes or less to speak. He requested that individuals refrain from duplicating comments
and suggested that, since some individuals would also be speaking later in the evening before City
Council, it might be appropriate to select a representative to speak.
Mrs. Patricia Virdin, 70 Peach Blossom Lane, Camden, (Police Department) stated that she had been
an employee of the City for over 20 years and read the following statement into the record:
My name is Patricia Virdin, I live at 70 Peach Blossom Lane in Camden. I have
been an employee of the city for over 20 years and I have the honor of working at the
Police Department.
At a prior council meeting, the city manager made the comment that he felt 92
dollars was not a significant amount. I beg to differ. At the current rate, nearly 6%
of my pension will go toward this new expense. And that is at TODAY’s rate of 92
dollars per month. We all know that the cost will go up. Combined with the lack of
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pay increases for the past two years, I fully expect this new expense to wipe out more
than 10% of my pension. I hardly call that insignificant. As I am coming towards
the end of my career, I have had no time to adequately plan for this expense.
My husband is also a city employee, so this measure hits my family doubly hard.
However, if this proposal is implemented on my husband’s salary, it will be because
the FOP negotiated, voted, and agreed to it. As a non-bargaining employee, I have
not been afforded that opportunity. All I have – the only thing I have – is a city
handbook that was issued to me upon my hire in 1992. This handbook has 11
chapters that cover both my responsibility to the city and the city’s responsibility to
me. Clearly stated in Article 9 is the fact that the city will pay 100% of an
employee’s healthcare and will continue to do so for retirees.
If, as the city manager believes, the handbook is simply a “guideline” and the city
is not required to abide by the statements therein, it seems to follow that the
employees who are not otherwise governed by a union contract cannot be required
to adhere to the policies in the handbook. Policies governing such things as
absences, use of city equipment, outside employment, personal conduct, disciplinary
actions, and so on, would be useless.
Although morale among employees is at a record low, the non-bargaining employees
are united and more organized than I have ever known. I stand with my 77 non-
bargaining co-workers to ask that you abide by the city handbook and implement this
policy on new hires only. We have honored and abided by the terms of this handbook
for our entire careers; we ask that you do the same.
Mr. Dave Truax, 35 Upland Avenue, Dover, (Fire Marshal’s Office) stated his frustration that
previous action by Council approved additional monies to be given to organizations and for
providing cameras downtown, etc., and Council transferred funds to accommodate these expenses;
however, never addressed the $630,000 budget deficit. He requested that members consider the
possibility of funding the $66,000 that would be acquired by implementing the City Manager’s
recommendation, in a way similar to what has been done for others. This would provide everyone
an additional year to consider and prepare for such a change and to know the results of contract
negotiations. He expressed confidence that the City Manager and Council would take the
appropriate action. He indicated that he had been an employee for 22 years and stated his hope that
there would be no change to his healthcare benefits.
Mr. Paul Bernat, 185 Captain Davis Drive, Camden, (Police Department) read the following
statement into the record:
Good evening, my name is Paul Bernat and I reside at 185 Captain Davis Dr.,
Camden, Delaware. I am the Deputy Chief of Police for the Dover Police
Department. I have been a loyal City employee for the past 23 years. I am standing
before you this evening asking you not to lessen my health benefits.
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COMMITTEE MEETING OF JUNE 11, 2012 PAGE 7
I was promoted to the rank of Major in April of 2010. With my promotion I left the
FOP Union and became part of the non-bargaining group of the City, which is
predominately management. In fiscal year 2012 all of the Unions received raises.
The non-bargaining group did not receive a raise and are not receiving raises again
this year. The three City Unions are currently in contract negotiations and are in the
bargaining process. The Unions will receive “something” in exchange for the 15%
healthcare cost sharing.
Last year around this time I contacted the Public Employment Relations Board
(PERB) and began the process to join the FOP. I later withdrew my application,
after Chief Hosfelt requested I do so. Chief Hosfelt felt confident that the City
Council will do the right thing and take care of the non-bargaining employees. Little
did I know that ten months later the City Manager would propose in the City budget
that the non-bargaining group pay 15% towards their healthcare.
I also need to mention that I attended all of the Salary and Benefits Compensation
Comparison Committee meetings and was disappointed when my salary was called
out as “above the maximum for the pay grade”. I looked into it further and
discovered that the pay information that was provided to the committee from the City
was the “2008 MAG” study. It is not reasonable to compare 2008 wages to 2012
wages.
In my 23 year career I have never felt as unappreciated as I do now. I feel that
Council has the mind set that city employees are merely an expense and do not
contribute to the excellent service that is provided to your constituents.
I do understand that the growing trend is to reduce government employees’ benefits.
However, I believe any lessening of benefits should apply to new hires or take effect
in ten years for tenured employees. Currently the City has several employees that
are at the 20 year mark and will retire within the next ten years. It is imperative that
the City not lose all of the knowledge and expertise from tenured employees.
Lessening current employees benefits are causing good employees to retire early.
This is causing the City to pay retirement benefits and new employee benefits as well.
In conclusion, I would like to reiterate that the non-bargaining employees did not
receive a raise last year, when Union employees did. The proposed 15% healthcare
cost share would only save the City a nominal amount but will continue to affect
employees in their retirement for the rest of their lives. Thank you for your time and
much needed support.
Mrs. Nancy Swaggard, 2629 Farm Lane, Camden Wyoming, (Customer Service Department) stated
she was an 18 year employee who had taken a non-bargaining position approximately six (6) years
ago. She advised members that when she first took the position, she had five (5) employees and now
has two (2), with the same amount of normal work to perform and additional responsibilities
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transferred from other departments that have also been shorted employees. She assured members
that staff was doing the best they could and that having benefits taken away only hurts. Mrs.
Swaggard noted that, taking her salary into consideration and the 15% healthcare costs, her
employees would actually be making more money than she would receive as their supervisor. She
indicated that there were others in the same situation and relayed concern that this could affect their
hard work and will to do a good job. She requested that all non-bargaining employees in attendance
stand united and be recognized (City Clerk’s Office Note: There were approximately 18 individuals
who stood.)
Ms. Carolyn Courtney, 24 Lamplighter Lane, Dover (Parks and Recreation Department) advised
members that she was born and raised in the City of Dover and had worked for the Parks and
Recreation Department for over 11½ years. As a taxpayer, she felt that the City provides excellent
services, parks, facilities, flowers, clean streets, etc., and stated that residents are able to put out
almost anything for the trash to be picked up by the City. She noted that other jurisdictions do not
have such services; however, their residents pay much higher taxes. She relayed no objections to
a slight tax increase to continue to pay for the services and noted the benefit of “writing off” taxes
on income tax returns. As an employee, Ms. Courtney relayed concerns regarding the lack of pay
raises and reminded members that the last time a raise was provided, the City instituted furlough
days; therefore, there was no pay raise realized. She noted that members of Council have continued
to fund events, festivals, and downtown economic development; however, they are unable to fund
the City’s obligation to employees as reflected in the Employee Handbook. She explained that
employees were hired with the understanding that the Employee Handbook reflected the employee’s
benefit package. She stated that although she has had opportunities to work in the private sector at
a much higher salary since being employed with the City, she declined and remained employed by
the City due to the benefit package. She requested that members consider the effect their decision
would have on those employees who are and have been dedicated.
Mr. Paul Cookson, 233 Hibiscus Terrace, Magnolia, (Police Department) read the following
statement into the record:
My name is Paul Cookson. I reside at 233 Hibiscus Terrace, in Magnolia. I have
been a loyal and dedicated employee, working in the Police Department, for over 20
years.
My employment with the City had a unique start, and I feel that I had a part in
starting something meaningful. In 1991, while finishing my Bachelors Degree in
Law Enforcement Administration at Western Illinois University, I was required to
complete an internship with an agency of my choice for a full semester. I contacted
several police departments here in Delaware to see if they would take me. One of
those agencies was Dover PD. The chief at the time, Chief Hutchison, explained to
me that Dover had never received any prior intern requests. Nevertheless, I must
have done something right since he offered to work with me. I don’t know if Chief
Hutchison knew at the time that I had contacted several other agencies: Rehoboth
Beach PD, and the Department of Natural Resources. Both of those agencies had
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COMMITTEE MEETING OF JUNE 11, 2012 PAGE 9
offered me a paid internship in an enforcement officer capacity. Dover’s internship
was offered with no pay; only for the experience. In considering the possibility that
my internship could lead to future employment, I took into consideration the
organizations and what they had to offer. The paid positions would most likely lead
to permanent police officer positions. However, I saw a good thing with Dover and
its excellent benefits and that is what I chose.
My 16 weeks of experience working with the various units paid off, as I was hired the
following year in the communications center. The rest is history. Dover still takes
on interns to this day.
My point here is not about my internship, only that I had a choice of where to
conduct it. The benefits offered by prospective future employment played a big part
in my decision. When I picked Dover I felt that I made the right choice and would
be working for an organization I could trust, and retire securely with the benefits
outlined for me. I am sure there are many similar stories from those behind me that
will not have the chance to be heard tonight.
Every employee regardless of position is an important part of this organization.
Your non-bargaining employees, from middle-management right up to department
heads, are what hold everything together. They are your longest serving and most
experienced employees. They are your foundation. If they cannot trust their
employer, that foundation is undermined. When a foundation is not sound, neither
is what is above it. You MUST honor what was offered to your employees when they
came on board, and stop putting the burden of financial woes on their shoulders. If
you do not, you will be setting a precedence that will surely be weighed by your
future foundation.
Ms. Diane Glenn, 218 Northdown Drive, Dover, (Police Department) noted that at a recent Council
meeting, members approved, with little to no resistence, an amended budget that included
transferring $600,000 from the Electric Department’s Reserve to offset the deficit. She was excited
that money was found at a time when employees were advised that cuts and extreme measures would
need to be taken. All the while, she thought the $600,000 eliminated the need for a healthcare cost
share with non-bargaining employees. Although these funds did not offset the $66,000 necessary
to eliminate the need for a healthcare cost share, the necessary funds were found for the continuation
of two (2) City festivals for the next fiscal year. At this point, she felt that members of Council must
feel that these two (2) festivals are more important to them than the non-bargaining employees. She
felt that Council had the opportunity to transfer the necessary $66,000 but chose to fund the festivals
only. Mrs. Glenn indicated her understanding for the need to “tighten the purse strings” and forego
a pay raise and have furlough days; however, the healthcare cost share would result in a decrease in
salary. She advised members that she is a single mother and moved to Dover 19 years ago to take
the job with the City and has no family in the area. She explained that the benefits offered by the
City lured her to make the move. She requested that City Council and the City Manager work
together to develop a proposal that would not include an attempt to “balance the budget on the backs
of the employees.”
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Ms. Christina Kober, 343 Orchard Grove Drive, Camden, (Police Department) advised members that
she has been a loyal and dedicated employee for 23 years and would be eligible for retirement in only
two (2) years. She reminded members that non-bargaining employees did not receive a pay increase
last year or this year. She stated that non-bargaining employees have no rights to negotiate benefits,
which were promised during employment and into retirement. It was her understanding that the
Employee Handbook, approved by City Council, was equivalent to a contract. She trusted and hoped
that members of Council would honor those written agreements. She felt it was clear and evident
that the financial impact for non-bargaining employees was a genuine hardship and a severe blow
to employee morale that may not be reversible. Ms. Kober requested that members honor the written
promise (or agreement), as stated in the Employee Handbook, that the City would pay 100% of each
full-time, regular employee’s individual coverage and eliminate healthcare premium cost sharing for
non-bargaining employees.
Ms. Robin Adkins, 27 Waterwheel Circle, (Police Department) indicated that she had been employed
with the City of Dover Police Department for almost 13 years. In addition to the issues previously
discussed, she stated her concern that non-bargaining employees do not have the ability to negotiate
for any benefit changes, salaries, etc. She reminded members that bargaining employees receive step
increases as well as promotions and that there are no step increases or automatic increases built into
the non-bargaining employees’ pay scale. She indicated that there was no set schedule after
retirement; therefore, as healthcare costs increase, the retirement pay for retired non-bargaining
employees would continue to decrease. Ms. Adkins advised members that one (1) of the main
reasons for selecting the City’s employment was the benefit package. She encouraged members to
consider the concerns relayed in making their decision regarding this matter.
Mr. Anderson felt that it was essential for members of Council to be provided with information
regarding long-term healthcare costs; however, he noted that it was necessary for immediate action
to be taken at this time. He explained that Scenario #2 would provide the employee the choice to
maintain a 100% premium for basic coverage and if additional coverage were desired, the employee
could pay more. This would address the concerns of those who could not afford cost sharing and,
at the same time, save the City a substantial amount of money.
Mr. Anderson moved to recommend approval of employee cost sharing of health insurance
premiums for non-bargaining employees based upon Scenario #2 - Premiums Based Upon
First State Basic, to be effective July 1, 2012, seconded by Mr. Hare and carried, with
Mr. Lynn voting no.
Mr. Bonar advised members and those in attendance that he departed the meeting during the public
comment period to make some telephone calls regarding healthcare premiums. Based on these three
(3) calls, he discovered that monthly premiums for health insurance ranged from a $96 contribution
to a $274 contribution. He noted that the $274 monthly contribution in the private sector also
included a $10,000 deductible on health insurance premiums. He suggested that this information
provided an indication of how the City compared to the private sector.
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Proposed Ordinance #2012-10 - Amending Chapter 1 - General Provisions, Section 1-13 -
Denial of Permits or Approvals for Failure to Comply with Requirements for Payment,
Actions, or Filings (Clean Hands) with CA-#1 through #4 (Referred to Committee by City
Council on May 14, 2012; Deferred by Council Committee of the Whole on May 29, 2012)
During the Annual Council Meeting of May 14, 2012, members referred CA-#1 through CA-#4
to Proposed Ordinance #2012-10 to the Legislative, Finance, and Administration Committee
for their review and recommendation. During the Council Committee of the Whole Meeting of
May 29, 2012, consideration of Proposed Ordinance #2012-10 amending Chapter 1 - General
Provisions, Section 1-13 - Denial of Permits or Approvals for Failure to Comply with Requirements
for Payment, Actions, or Filings (Clean Hands) was deferred due to time constraints.
Mr. Anderson stated that, after speaking with Mrs. Ann Marie Townshend, Director of Planning and
Community Development, regarding CA-#1, he no longer wished to make these changes at this time
and provided an overview, including a narrative, of CA-#2 through CA-#4, as follows:
CA-#2 - The proposed language would ensure that the inclusion of owners and/or
members of corporations would apply to owners of a one-half or greater
interest in the said corporation. It would ensure that members of
non-profit boards and other minority owners in corporations would not
be denied services or permits due to the delinquencies of that corporation.
Mr. Anderson moved to recommend adoption of CA-#2, seconded by Mr. Lynn.
Mr. Perza questioned how the City would be able to determine owners of a one-half or greater
interest since LLC’s and corporations are private entities and the percentages of ownership would
not be known. Responding, Mrs. Townshend explained that it was staff’s intent that if a corporation
applied for a permit or site plan, a disclosure form would be required listing the owners above the
specified threshold as of the date of application.
In response to Mr. Hare, Mrs. Townshend confirmed that homeowners wishing to rent properties
were required to obtain a permit; however, owners of commercial buildings were not required to
obtain a permit to rent to another business or entity.
The motion recommending adoption of CA-#2 to proposed Ordinance #2012-10
(Attachment #2) was unanimously carried.
CA-#3 - The proposed language would allow for persons to serve on city
committees, commissions, or boards, even if they are responsible for
delinquencies or code violations; however, it requires that the city clerk
inform the city council president of such delinquencies or violations and
that an executive session of council be held to discuss such delinquencies
or violations.
Paj 12
LEGISLATIVE, FINANCE, AND ADMINISTRATION
COMMITTEE MEETING OF JUNE 11, 2012 PAGE 12
Mr. Anderson moved to recommend adoption of CA-#3 to proposed Ordinance #2012-10
(Attachment #3), seconded by Mr. Hare and unanimously carried.
CA-#4 - The proposed language would add an appeal to city council for applicants
aggrieved by the decision of the city manager.
Mr. Anderson moved to recommend adoption of CA-#4 to proposed Ordinance #2012-10
(Attachment #4), seconded by Mr. Hare and carried, with Mr. Lynn voting no.
Mr. Anderson moved to recommend adoption of proposed Ordinance #2012-10, as amended
to include CA#2, CA#3, and CA#4, seconded by Mr. Hare and unanimously carried.
Proposed Ordinance #2012-17 - Amending Chapter 26 - Businesses, Article I - In General,
Section 26-1 - Sale of Dangerous Substances
Members reviewed proposed Ordinance #2012-17 - Chapter 26 - Businesses, Article I - In General,
Section 26-1 - Sale of Dangerous Substances. Mrs. Ann Marie Townshend, Director of Planning
and Community Development, explained that the proposed ordinance was developed in response to
the chemical industry moving faster than staff’s ability to present code amendments. As a result, she
stated that the proposed ordinance would amend the City Code regarding sale of Bath Salts to refer
to Delaware Code, Title 16, Chapter 47, as it relates to Schedule 1 Controlled Substances, rather than
listing the prohibited substances by name. It would also amend the penalties to declare any
businesses that sells such substances a public nuisance and refers to license revocation through
summary action.
Mr. Lynn commended staff for taking immediate action to address the epidemic occurring with bath
salts.
Mr. Hare moved to recommend adoption of proposed Ordinance #2012-17, seconded by
Mr. Shevock.
Mr. Anderson relayed concern that the proposed ordinance could affect potential legislation dealing
with medicinal marijuana, the use of which he felt would be appropriate.
The motion recommending adoption of proposed Ordinance #2012-17 (Attachment #5) was
carried, with Mr. Anderson voting no.
Elimination of Pay for Performance
Mr. Hutchison questioned if the Pay for Performance policy identified the value of each and every
job and a recommendation for entry-level, midpoint, and maximum salary for every employee.
Responding, Mr. Scott Koenig, City Manager, stated that the Pay for Performance policy currently
includes a salary table that states a minimum, midpoint, and maximum. This was the salary scale
that was in place for Fiscal Year 2008. He stated that there is a scale that considers every position
in the City, puts it on a grade, and provides a pay “band.” This was the table that was presented to
the Salary and Benefits Committee.
Paj 13
LEGISLATIVE, FINANCE, AND ADMINISTRATION
COMMITTEE MEETING OF JUNE 11, 2012 PAGE 13
Mr. Hutchison questioned how the salaries for certain employees could become inconsistent with
the policy. Mr. Koenig explained his understanding that, under the previous City Manager, the
annual budget included a section called Pay for Performance, which included a matrix that provided
a score. In addition, there was a page that included the existing salary scale and a proposed salary
scale. For several years, he stated that City Council adopted the matrix but never adopted the new
salary scale (which included a cost of living increase for the entire scale). He explained that this was
the reason several positions that were identified in the Salary and Benefits Committee were beyond
the scale, because the scale itself did not move forward as the raises were earned.
Based on this information, Mr. Hutchison noted the need for fairness and the need to identify each
employee’s value and to develop a salary scale. He suggested that staff consider the use of bonuses
rather than salary increases. He felt that Council, along with the help of the City Manager, must “get
a handle” on this matter for the future.
In addition to concurring with Mr. Hutchison, Mr. Anderson relayed concern that there were
employees who received raises based upon factors that had very little to do with the core
performance of their jobs. He noted that job descriptions did not match the actual job
responsibilities and the Pay for Performance system seemed to slide based on the favor of the
evaluator more than job performance. As such, he felt that the City should rework the Pay for
Performance system. He indicated that he was not opposed to the concept of pay for performance,
but that the current system was irrevocably broken, should be discarded, and a totally new system
developed.
Mr. Hutchison requested, if members decide to move forward with the development of a new system,
that this be accomplished by City staff (a management team).
Mrs. Russell advised members that she served as a president and chief shop steward for over 25
years and had never believed in pay for performance, feeling that it generates unfairness.
Mr. Anderson moved to recommend that the current Pay for Performance system to be eliminated
effective July 1, 2012, seconded by Mr. Hare.
Mr. Shevock relayed concern with eliminating a system if there were no system to replace it,
explaining that this could potentially cause chaos for the City Manager.
Mr. Hutchison requested that the motion be amended to request the City Manager to develop a
recommendation and allow for the Pay for Performance System to remain in place until such time
as a new system is in place.
Mr. Anderson moved to recommend that the Pay for Performance be eliminated effective upon the
approval of a new system brought forth by the City Manager and staff, seconded by Mr. Hare.
Paj 14
LEGISLATIVE, FINANCE, AND ADMINISTRATION
COMMITTEE MEETING OF JUNE 11, 2012 PAGE 14
Mr. Bonar suggested that the City Manager be provided a specific date, such as August 1, 2012, as
a set date to submit a recommendation in order to ensure a timely response, and that members of
Council be included in the discussion with the City Manager, as well as the Human Resources staff.
Disagreeing, Mrs. Russell requested that staff be provided ample time to develop a recommendation
due to the importance of the issue and its effect on employee salaries, noting that this would not
affect the current budget.
The motion recommending that the Pay for Performance be eliminated effective upon the
approval of a new system to be brought forth by the City Manager and staff was carried, with
Mr. Lynn voting no.
Reduced Rates for All-Electric Homes in December, January, and February (Requested by Ted
George During Open Forum at City Council)
Due to time constraints, this item was deferred until the next meeting.
Mr. Shevock moved for adjournment, seconded by Mr. Hare and unanimously carried.
Meeting Adjourned at 7:08 P.M.
Sean M. Lynn
Chairman
SML/jg/js/dd
S:\AGENDAS-MINUTES-PACKETS\Committee-Minutes\2012\06-11-2012 LF&A.wpd
Attachments to Original and File Copy
Attachment #1 - Letters and Other Correspondence from Various Employees
Attachment #2 - CA-#2 to proposed Ordinance #2012-10
Attachment #3 - CA-#3 to proposed Ordinance #2012-10
Attachment #4 - CA-#4 to proposed Ordinance #2012-10
Attachment #5 - Proposed Ordinance #2012-17
Paj 15
ATTACHMENT #1
LF&A Committee Meeting of 06/11/2012
Paj 22
ATTACHMENT #2
1 CITY OF DOVER LF&A Committee Meeting of 06/11/2012
2 COUNCIL AMENDMENT #2
3 TO ORDINANCE #2012-10
4 BE IT ORDAINED BY THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOVER, IN COUNCIL MET:
5 That Ordinance 2012-10 be amended by striking lines 23-31 in their entirety and inserting in lieu thereof the
6 following:
7 Eligibility to receive city utilities or services. No person, artificial entity, or owner of a one-half or greater
8 interest in that artificial entity shall be eligible to receive any city services, utilities, permits, licenses, or
9 approvals if that person, artificial entity, or owner of a one-half or greater interest in that artificial entity
10 owes outstanding payments to the city; or if that person, artificial entity, or the owner of a one-half or
11 greater interest in that artificial entity is responsible for documented violations of the Dover Code of
12 Ordinances that have remained unresolved for more than 45 days. If the party, artificial entity, or owner
13 of a one-half or greater interest in that artificial entity requesting city approval is current on some but
14 not all obligations owed to the city, the request shall be denied until such time as the person, artificial
15 entity, or owner of a one-half or greater interest in that artificial entity is current and in compliance with
16 all city obligations.
17 BE IT FURTHER ORDAINED:
18 That Ordinance 2012-10 be amended by removing the words “corporation of which they are principal” on line
19 53 and replacing them with “artificial entity of which they own one-half or more interest.”
20 ADOPTED: *
21 SYNOPSIS
22 The proposed language would ensure that the inclusion of owners and/or members of corporations would
23 apply to owners of a one-half or greater interest in the said corporation. It would ensure that members
24 of non-profit boards and other minority owners in corporations would not be denied services or permits
25 due to the delinquencies of that corporation.
26 Councilman Anderson’s (author) Narrative:
27 Amendment 2 is important for several reasons. The synopsis says its intention well. The proposal as written
28 would make anyone who serves on a non-profit board or is an officer or minority stockholder of a corporation
29 liable for its debt to the city even though that person has no legal authority to compel the payment or may not
30 have even known about the delinquency. It violates the sacred nature of a corporation or LLC that separates
31 personal affairs and liabilities for the entities affairs and liabilities. Even worse by my reading of the original,
32 an individual's liability could affect the non-profit or corporation when the rest of the members have no
33 responsibility or even knowledge of the issue. It is exactly the wrong way to go. This amendment addresses
34 these issues.
35 I will give two real world examples. One was the Schwartz Center. It fell behind on its electric bills to the tone
36 16K 6 years ago. Imagine how hard it would be to hire a new executive director or get capable people to stay
37 on the board if their personal permits or business services would be in jeopardy. In that case the city forgave
38 the bill and new leadership turned it around. Another was the Academy of Dover. The former management firm
39 left it in tough straits. The state audit was deplorable. The state was slow on its payments and the electric was
40 unpaid for a two or three months. When the new board took over 5 years ago, we discovered the problem and
41 took care of it. The school is now a superior school with great financials. If the new leadership had to look
42 over its shoulder and wonder if their businesses or homes would be affected, the school would not exist and
43 hundreds of children would not have benefitted from a superior education and a couple of dozen well paying
44 jobs would be gone.
45 Please support Amendment 2. It is vital for the social and economic well being of the city. Thank you.
Paj 23
ATTACHMENT #3
LF&A Committee Meeting of 06/11/2012
1 CITY OF DOVER
2 COUNCIL AMENDMENT #3
3 TO ORDINANCE #2012-10
4 BE IT ORDAINED BY THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOVER, IN COUNCIL MET:
5 That Ordinance 2012-10 be amended by striking lines 51-57 in their entirety and replacing them with the
6 following:
7 Appointment to committee, commission, or board. Prior to any person being appointed to a city
8 committee, commission, or board, the city clerk will determine if there are outstanding payments due
9 to the city in their name or the name of any artificial entity in which they own one-half or more
10 interest; or if they are responsible for outstanding, documented violations of the Dover Code of
11 Ordinances that have been unresolved for more than 45 days. If it is determined that such
12 delinquency or violation exists, this shall be reported to the council president and an executive session
13 shall be scheduled to discuss the nature of the delinquency prior to appointment. If an appointed
14 member of a city committee, commission, or board is determined to have such a delinquency or
15 outstanding violation during their appointment, the city clerk shall report such delinquency or
16 violation to the council president and an executive session shall be scheduled to discuss the violation
17 or delinquency. City council may reject an appointment or remove an appointee from a city
18 committee, commission, or board due to such delinquency or violation.
19 ADOPTED: *
20 SYNOPSIS
21 The proposed language would allow for persons to serve on city committees, commissions,
22 or boards, even if they are responsible for delinquencies or code violations; however, it
23 requires that the city clerk inform the city council president of such delinquencies or
24 violations and that an executive session of council be held to discuss such delinquencies or
25 violations.
26 Councilman Anderson’s (author) Narrative:
27 I call this the let's not be hypocrites amendment. I believe there is a minor problem with a couple of
28 committee members who are sitting on committees and judging others who themselves are chronic offenders
29 of delinquent tax liabilities. Council should have the right to discuss the situation with them and evaluate
30 whether it or not it affects their performance in private as we would an employee. Currently, we are not
31 even informed. Amendment 3 addresses this problem without giving away the prerogatives of Council or
32 the Mayor to find qualified people for slots they cannot fill. The change as originally proposed gives an
33 inflexible sledgehammer which could deprive us of volunteers who we sincerely need.
34 If a person gets an assessment for a sidewalk, and does not happen to have $1500 sitting around just waiting
35 to give to the city, does that mean they should be kicked off of a city committee like some kind of felon?
36 I say no. Would a city employee in that situation be fired? Would a Council person be impeached and
37 removed? Would the Mayor be tossed out of office? No, so why should we single out committee persons?
38 I do not like laws which apply to some people and not others. I believe we should have more information
39 when we bring people on and if a problem arises, we should have the tools to open a dialog and reassess our
40 relationship if necessary. We do not need to make a blind, inflexible standard where we humiliate people
41 who volunteered to help us.
42 Please support amendment 3.
Paj 24
ATTACHMENT #4
LF&A Committee Meeting of 06/11/2012
1 CITY OF DOVER
2 COUNCIL AMENDMENT #4
3 TO ORDINANCE #2012-10
4
5 BE IT ORDAINED BY THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOVER, IN COUNCIL MET:
6
7 That Ordinance 2012-10 be amended by striking lines 76-82 in their entirety and replacing them with the
8 following:
9
10 (f) Appeal of denial of utilities, services or approvals.
11
12 (1) Appeal to city manager. Any applicant, person, corporation, or other entity or any
13 owner or member of that corporation or other entity requesting such city services, utilities,
14 permits, licenses, or approvals who receives the aforesaid written denial may appeal that
15 denial to the city manager within 20 calendar days of such denial. The city manager, or his/her
16 designee, shall thereafter hold a hearing at which said applicant shall be permitted to give
17 evidence that such payment has been made or that a required action has been carried out, or
18 otherwise show that such denial is based on incorrect information or is not lawful as to that
19 applicant.
20
21 (2) Appeal to city council. An applicant aggrieved by the decision of the city manager
22 regarding his/her appeal may appeal such decision to city council within 20 calendar days of
23 such decision. City council shall schedule a hearing at which said applicant shall be permitted
24 to give evidence that such payment has been made or that a required action has been carried
25 out, or otherwise show that such denial is based on incorrect information or is not lawful as
26 to that applicant.
27
28 ADOPTED: *
29
30 SYNOPSIS
31 The proposed language would add an appeal to city council for applicants aggrieved by the
32 decision of the city manager.
33
34 Councilman Anderson’s (author) Narrative:
35 I wanted more flexibility for the staff to address issues and supported an appeal to the city manager. I
36 believe this will relieve council of the burden of taking every case deemed unfair by a constituent. Many
37 incidents can be resolved at the staff level. I think my desire was misinterpreted to want to exclude council
38 from the process. I absolutely oppose that. I apologize to our City Planner who has done a marvelous job
39 for my previous lapse in communication. We have settled on this amendment drafted by Mr. Pepper. I
40 think it is sound and recognizes that the People have a right to appeal to their City Council as the court of
41 last resort when they feel they are being wronged. No elected body should shirk its responsibilities to the
42 public or give away its prerogatives to those who do not have that awesome responsibility of being selected
43 by the people to do their business.
44
45 I zealously guard the prerogatives of City Council because I honestly believe that a representative republic
46 cannot be run solely by a bureaucracy. We were elected to be that policy branch and to exercise oversight
47 not just generally, but in individual cases where we believe the law is wrongfully applied through the
48 appeals process. Amendment 4 is the most important of the 4 that I am presenting tonight. It goes to our
49 form of government. I respectfully request the support of each of my fellow councilpersons.
Paj 25
ATTACHMENT #5
LF&A Committee Meeting of 06/11/2012
CITY OF DOVER PROPOSED ORDINANCE #2012-17
1 BE IT ORDAINED BY THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOVER, IN COUNCIL
2 MET:
3 That Chapter 26 - Businesses, Article I - In General, Section 26-1 - Sale of Dangerous Substances be
4 amended by deleting the text indicated bold, red, strikethrough and inserting the text indicated in bold,
5 underline, as follows:
6 Sec. 26-1. - Sale of dangerous substances.
7 (a) It shall be unlawful to sell or offer to sell any material, compound, mixture, or preparation which
8 contains any quantity of any substance categorized as Schedule I in accordance with
9 16 Del.C. ch. 47. the following substances, their salts, isomers, and salts of isomers, unless
10 specifically excepted, whenever the existence of such salts, isomers, and salts of isomers is
11 possible within the specific chemical designation:
12 (1) Methylone;
13 (2) MDPV;
14 (3) Methylenedioxypyrovalerone;
15 (4) Methylmethcathinone;
16 (5) Mephedrone;
17 (6) Methoxymethcathinone;
18 (7) Fluromethcathinone;
19 (b) Penalties. Violations of this section shall be subject to fines in accordance with Appendix
20 F—Fees and Fines, section 1-17 and revocation of business license under the provisions of
21 Chapter 26—Businesses, Article II—Licenses, sections 26-59 and 26-63 26-64.
22 (c) Enforcement. Any business that sells or offers for sale any of the prohibited items shall be
23 considered a public nuisance. The provisions of this section may be enforced by any city
24 inspector or officer of the police department. after any substance found for sale at a business
25 tests positive for a Schedule 1 controlled substance in a field test performed by the Police
26 Department.
27 ADOPTED: *
28 S:\ORDINANCES\2012\Draft\2012-17 - Ch 26 - Businesses, Art I - In General, Sec 26-1 - Sale of Dangerous Substances.wpd
29 SYNOPSIS
30 The proposed ordinance would more closely align the City code with the State Uniform
31 Controlled Substances Act as it relates to the sale of Schedule I controlled substances,
32 including but not limited to bath salts.
33 (SPONSORS: LYNN , STAFF)
34 Actions History
35 06/11/2012 - Introduced at Legislative, Finance, and Administration Committee Meeting