City of Culver City, California
City Council Agenda Item Report
RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends the City Council approve the revised classification specification
for Traffic Signal Technician.
BACKGROUND/DISCUSSION
The Traffic Signal Technician classification specification has been revised to reflect
the following:
Current titles and changes in technology in relation to performing the
essential duties.
Minimum requirements have been revised to include high school graduation
or equivalent.
Language has been added under Licenses and Certificates to clarify that the
Level I Traffic Signal Certificate required for the classification must be granted
by the International Municipal Signal Association (IMSA). IMSA is a
nationally-recognized organization whose certification is given only to
individuals that have been determined to be qualified to perform specific
technical tasks by virtue of their technical knowledge and experiences. This
section has also been revised to specify that an IMSA Level II Traffic Signal
Certificate or equivalent is preferred but not required.
At its December 6, 2006 meeting, the Civil Service Commission approved the
revised classification specification for Traffic Signal Technician.
Meeting Date: 01/22/07 Item Number: A-3
AGENDA ITEM: Approve the Classification Specification for Traffic Signal
Technician.
Contact Person/Dept.: Mary Ortiz Phone Number: 310-253-5650
Fiscal Impact: Yes [] No [X] General Fund: Yes [X] No []
Public Hearing: [] Action Item: [x] Attachments: [x]
Public Notification: Master Notification List and Culver City Employees Association on
December 1, 2006.
Department Approval:
Serena Wright (01/12/2007)
City Attorney Approval:
Heather Iker (01/17/2007)
City Controller Approval:
Marlee Chang (01/16/07)
City Manager Approval:
Jerry B. Fulwood (01/17/2007)City of Culver City, California
City Council Agenda Item Report
FISCAL ANALYSIS
There is no proposed salary change for this item.
ATTACHMENT(S)
1. Revised Classification Specification for Traffic Signal Technician.
2. Minutes from the Civil Service Commission Meeting of December 6, 2006.
MOTION
That the City Council:
Approve the revised classification specification for Traffic Signal Technician.
MEETING DATE: 01/22/07
AGENDA ITEM: Consideration to approve the classification specification for
Traffic Signal Technician
ATTACHMENT
Pages|109| Traffic Signal Technician classification 1-3|109| Approved Civil Service Commission Meeting Minutes 4-13SUPERVISION RECEIVED'AND 'EXERCISED
ATTACHMENT "1"
etitilh, CITY
PEIMONFICI DtPARTNIPIT
44"'
Occupants of this classification are in the classified service. This position assists with skilled work in the
maintenance, repair, and modification of traffic signal control equipment, wiring systems, and other
electrical devices.
This position reports to the reports to the Electrical Maintenance Supervisor. Responsibilities
include assisting in the repair and maintenance of traffic control and street light equipment and general
electrical maintenance.
The following tasks are essential for this position. Incumbents in this classification may not perform all of
these tasks, or may perform similar related tasks not listed here.
1. Performs skilled electrical work in the installation, operation, general maintenance, repair, and
adjustment of traffic signals.
2. Makes field and emergenc repairs on traffic si nal equipment, such as signal heads, traffic signal
standards, detector pads , and controllers.
ssists with repairs of traffic signals and controllers rtiage,4411fitimirmiMIM
4. Assists with relocations and modifications of traffic signals and electronic equipment at street
intersections.
5. Assists in general electrical repair work.
6. Installs street traffic detectors, pedestrian push button units, and large illuminated traffic signs.
7. Turns on and tests traffic signals and makes timely adjustments.
8. Cleans, tests, repairs, and overhauls controllers, coordinators, program clocks, computers, and
other electric and electronic equipment in the shop.
Tests electronic and electrical circuits, transformers, and other related equipment.
COnfr eMPAISSOSSMI
11. Assists with re-wiring of controllers, —166614.
12. Makes periodic and routine preventive maintenance inspections of street lights and answers any
emergency trouble calls.
13. Checks and adjusts traffic signal coordination and timing, and performs preventive maintenance
work.
14. Interprets traffic signal and electrical wiring diagrams, sketches and schematics, and helps perform
general electrical repair.
15. Helps repair other electronic or electrical devices or equipment.
16. Maintains and properly utilizes electronic and electrical tools and equipment.
November 1998
Revised December 2006Possession of a valid California Class B driver's license. Possession of
Level I Traffic Signal Certificat
ired.
Page 2 — Traffic Signal Technician
Knowledge of:
• Materials, methods, and equipment used in the modification, maintenance, and re air of electronic
and solid state di ital control devices including traffic signals,
• Functions and uses of electrical testing equipment.
• Standard tools, methods, and practices of the electronic and electrician trade.
• Wiring practices.
• Functions and uses of hand tools used in electronic and electrical repairs.
• S.Ghematie-wire-size-and-the Proper wire use.
• Traffic safety.
Skill and Ability to:
• Perform heavy and physically demanding work for lengthy and continuous period of time.
• Use and operate an aerial boom truck.
• Use of power and hand tools such as a jackhamme
• Read electronic technical manuals.
•
• Set up a job site in a safe manne
• Access the digital computer to control traffic signal control timing devices.
• Fit and adjust conduit in the traffic signal installation process.
• Establish and maintain effective MIR= working relationships with others.
• Apply electronic principles and practices.
Any combination equivalent to training and experience that could likely provide the required knowledge,
skills and abilities would be uali in A typical way to obtain the knowledge, skills and abilities would
be and two (2) years of experience in the maintenance, repair, and
installation of electrical and electronic equipment of which one (1) year should be in the maintenance and
repair of traffic controls.
November 1998
Revised December 2006Page 3 — Traffic Signal Technician
.P44YtidAt REQUIREMEAND WORKINGtOtetrieW
• Require the mobility to stand, stoop, reach and bend. Require mobility of arms to reach and dexterity
of hands to grasp and manipulate small objects.
• Require the ability to stand for long periods.
• Require the ability to maintain balance.
• Require the ability to walk long distances.
• Perform work which involves the frequent lifting, pushing and/or pulling of objects which may
approximate 35 pounds and may occasionally weigh up to 50 pounds.
• May be required to work in inclement weather without effective protection from sun, cold, and rain.
• May be required to work within enclosed spaces or at heights above ground level.
• May be required to work around moving mechanical parts. May be required to work around
electrical Gtorente*Men*Opmeot _
November 1998
Revised December 2006Attachment "2"
Cafteh CITY
PERSONNEL DEPARTMENT
MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING OF THE
CIVIL SERVICE COMMISSION
Wednesday, December 6, 2006
7:00 pm
Mike Balkman Council Chambers
Chair Motyl called the meeting to order at 7:03 P.M.
Commissioners Present:
Vincent Motyl, Chair
Sandy Stivers, Vice Chair
Alice Barriciello, Commissioner
Michael Whitaker, Commissioner
Sharon Zeitlin, Commissioner
Staff Present:
Serena Wright, Personnel & Employee Relations Director
Heather Iker, Deputy City Attorney
Linda Coll, Personnel Services Analyst
Mary Ortiz, Personnel Analyst
Amy Webber, Personnel Analyst
Commissioners Absent:
None
Chair Motyl invited public participation for items not on the agenda.
None.
Chair Motyl invited public participation for items on the agenda.
None.
Item C-1: Secretary's Report
Moved by Commissioner Whitaker, seconded by Commissioner Zeitlin, it was unanimously carried
that the Civil Service Commission receive and file the Secretary's Report.Civil Service Commission Minutes
December 6, 2006
Page 2 of 10
Item C-2:
Approval of Minutes for the meeting of September 6, 2006
Moved by Commissioner Zeitlin, seconded by Commissioner Whitaker, it was unanimously carried to
approve the minutes.
Approval of Minutes for the meeting of October 4, 2006
Moved by Commissioner Zeitlin, seconded by Commissioner Whitaker, it was unanimously carried to
approve the minutes.
.! .4t 4IPIOA:i APS
Item A-1: Request to Schedule an Appeal Hearing for the Disciplinary Dismissal of Jeffrey
Davila
Serena Wright gave an overview of the staff report.
Steve Filarsky, Attorney-at-Law, was present and stated that he was representing the City.
John Bakhit, Attorney-at-Law, from the firm of Lackie & Dammeier, APC, was present and stated that
he was representing the appellant, Jeffrey Davila.
Chair Motyl asked how the Commission was to decide whether to hear this appeal or send out the
appeal if there was no information available to them concerning the disciplinary action. In the past,
Commissioners received a file of record beforehand, and now they receive nothing.
Serena Wright responded that direction was based on the new Civil Service Rules.
Heather lker responded that attorneys from both sides were present and could provide a general idea
of the estimated length of the hearing and the complexity of the issues. Based on that, the
Commission could decide whether or not to send the appeal out to a hearing officer.
Commissioner Zeitlin responded that according to the new Rules, the Commission will receive a
summary of the charges and the discipline.
Steve Filarsky responded that the reason the Commission does not receive material ahead of time is
that in some manner, they could be predisposed to a decision prior to the hearing. The dismissal is
based on excessive force and untruths. He believes it will be a long hearing, possibly 8 to 12 days,
due to the nature of case, and the number of witnesses and expert witnesses. Based on Civil Service
Rule 11.13A, the Commission could appoint a hearing in order to conduct the hearing in the most
expeditious manner possible. It is difficult to schedule large groups of people, and selection of a
hearing officer would be better because of greater continuity and availability for longer hours. In
keeping with the intent of the Civil Service Rules, he recommended use of a hearing officer.
Commissioner Whitaker inquired about the number of witnesses and how long it would be before the
hearing would begin.Civil Service Commission Minutes
December 6, 2006
Page 3 of 10
Steve Filarsky responded there are numerous witnesses, a minimum of 7 to 8, probably more, plus
expert witnesses if needed, and approximately two months until the hearing would begin.
John Bakhit advised that he was speaking on behalf of Mr. Dawson who will actually represent Mr.
Davila. He agreed that 8 to 12 nights are probable, and believes the Commission should hear this
appeal due to the nature of case and to allow the City to make changes resulting from the hearing.
There will be approximately 7 to 10 witnesses for the appellant.
Commissioner Whitaker asked if there was a policy or what is the history of the Commission in these
hearings.
Heather Iker responded it's up to the Commission's discretion.
Chair Motyl responded that in his seven years of experience on the Commission, they usually agree
to the appellant's request.
Moved by Chair Motyl and seconded by Commissioner Zeitlin, the motion was made for the
Commission to hear the appeal.
Vice Chair Stivers said she was leaning toward the Commission holding the hearing, but could agree
either way.
Commissioner Barriciello stated that the Commission should conduct the hearing if we do not receive
information ahead of time.
Commissioner Whitaker stated he would go along with the Commission, but based on his professional
experience the Commission may not want to hear similar matters due to the lengthy process.
Chair Motyl responded that it would be a lengthy commitment going on his past experience.
Commissioner Barriciello responded that the Commission finished the Civil Service Rules Amendment
Project and could commit to the hearing.
Moved by Chair Motyl, seconded by Commissioner Zeitlin, the motion for the Commission to hear the
appeal was unanimously carried.
Discussion ensued regarding possible hearing dates; the following hearing dates were scheduled:
• January 22, 24, 26, 2007; and
• February 5, 7, 13, 26, 27, 2007.
• On February 7 th , the Commission meeting will convene at 6:00 p.m., followed by the hearing at
approximately 6:30 pm; and
• The hearing will begin at 6:00 pm on the remaining dates.
Commissioner Whitaker requested that counsel notify the Commission as soon as possible if there
are any delays.Civil Service Commission Minutes
December 6, 2006
Page 4 of 10
Item A-2: Outstanding Performance Awards: Karen Williams, Patricia Garcia, and Judith
Gracia
Serena Wright gave overview of staff report.
Moved by Commissioner Zeitlin, seconded by Commissioner Whitaker, the motion to approve the
Outstanding Performance Awards for Karen Williams, Patricia Garcia, and Judith Garcia was
unanimously carried.
Item A-3: Exceptional Step Increase: Rosa Lagasse
Serena Wright gave overview of staff report.
Moved by Commissioner Zeitlin, seconded by Vice Chair Stivers, the motion to approve the
Exceptional Step Increase for Rosa Lagasse was unanimously carried.
Item A-4: Graphic Services Assistant: Extension of the Eligible List
Serena Wright gave overview of staff report.
Moved by Vice Chair Stivers, seconded by Commissioner Whitaker, the motion to approve the
extension of the eligible list for Graphic Services Assistant was unanimously carried.
Item A-5: Transit Operations Supervisor: New Promotional Recruitment Bulletin
Serena Wright gave overview of staff report.
Commissioner Whitaker asked if the bulletin and class specification should reflect the same
information; for instance, the reference to administrative suspension of drivers license?
Commissioner Zeitlin stated, the bulletin should also mirror language regarding no fault accidents.
Serena Wright responded that the language would be revised at the Commission's direction.
Moved by Commissioner Zeitlin, seconded by Commissioner Whitaker, the motion to approve the new
promotional recruitment bulletin for Transit Operations Supervisor was unanimously carried.
Item A-6: Equipment Maintenance Supervisor: New Promotional Recruitment Bulletin and
Revised Classification Specification
Serena Wright gave overview of staff report, and stated that Mary Ortiz was available to answer
questions, as she had worked closely with the department on the proposed revisions.
Commissioner Whitaker asked is there was a driver's license monitoring process.
Serena Wright responded that the City participates in the Department of Motor Vehicles' Pull Notice
program; updates are received from the DMV as an incident occurs.Civil Service Commission Minutes
December 6, 2006
Page 5 of 10
Commissioner Whitaker asked, if during the term of employment, if suspension of a drivers license
occurs, is it grounds for action by the City?
Serena Wright responded that action would be taken by the City.
Vice Chair Stivers asked, if an applicant refuses a pre-placement medical exam, would he/she be
rejected as a candidate?
Serena Wright responded that it depends on the situation. If a candidate got sick, we could
reschedule; if he/she absolutely refused, the candidate would be rejected.
Mary Ortiz stated that if a test has already been done, the candidate could provide proof from
personal physician.
Vice Chair Stivers asked if a positive test is grounds for rejection.
Mary Ortiz responded that a positive drug screen may not be disqualifying if the drug was disclosed.
Commissioner Barriciello questioned if a positive test for heroin be okay if disclosed.
Serena Wright responded, no, that the reference is to a prescribed medication.
Commissioner Whitaker asked if Commissioner Barriciello was suggesting adding "illegal" to
controlled substances because a medication that is not prescribed may not be illegal, and may create
a legal loophole.
Commissioner Barriciello responded that the definition of "illegal" is in the Civil Service Rules.
Commissioner Whitaker asked what is an unassembled exam.
Serena Wright responded that it is a review of experience and qualifications.
Moved by Vice Chair Stivers, seconded by Commissioner Whitaker, the motion to approve the new
promotional recruitment bulletin and revised classification specification for Equipment Maintenance
Supervisor was unanimously carried.
Item A-7: Mechanic Assistant: New Promotional and Revised Open/Competitive
Recruitment Bulletin and Revised Classification Specification
Serena Wright gave overview of staff report, stating that revisions suggested by Commissioner
Barriciello for Equipment Maintenance Supervisor would also be made to this classification
specification and job bulletin.
Commissioner Barriciello asked if an employee is required to provide their own tools at the time of
hire; are they reimbursed; and if a California driver's license required?
Paul Condran, Equipment Maintenance Manager, stated that the applicant must have a California
drivers license. It is an industry standard practice for employees in this profession to provide theirCivil Service Commission Minutes
December 6, 2006
Page 6 of 10
own tools, and an employee is expected to have the full complement of tools for the position. They do
receive an annual tool allowance of $200 which will increase to $300 in 2008.
Chair Motyl asked if an employee is expected to have bus repair tools.
Paul Condran responded that the City provides highly technical tools as required.
Commissioner Zeitlin asked why separate Promotional and Open & Competitive recruitments are
being conducted at the same time.
Paul Condran responded it is an agreement between the unions and Personnel to provide
promotional opportunities, a quicker recruitment process, and to maintain an eligible list in the event of
vacancies. It is extremely difficult to recruit for these positions.
Commissioner Zeitlin asked if two eligible lists would be produced.
Serena Wright responded that two lists are produced to ensure sufficient eligibles when vacancies
occur; the promotional eligibles receive priority.
Commissioner Whitaker asked why the position is hard to recruit for.
Serena Wright responded that employment in the public sector is not as desirable as the private
sector, and that public agencies are experiencing increasing difficulty in recruiting for all positions.
Moved by Chair Motyl, seconded by Commissioner Barriciello, the motion to approve the new
promotional and revised open/competitive recruitment bulletin and revised classification specification
for Mechanic Assistant was unanimously carried.
Item A-8: Equipment Service Worker: Revised Open/Competitive Recruitment Bulletin and
Classification Specification
Serena Wright gave overview of staff report.
Moved by Vice Chair Stivers, seconded by Commissioner Whitaker, the motion to approve the revised
open/competitive recruitment bulletin and revised classification specification for Equipment Service
Worker, with revised language, was unanimously carried.
Item A-9: Traffic Signal Technician: Revised Open/Competitive Recruitment Bulletin and
Classification Specification
Serena Wright gave overview of staff report and indicated that Heustace Lewis, Maintenance
Operations Manager, was present to answer questions.
Commissioner Barriciello asked if a Level II Traffic Signal Certificate is required or preferred?
Mary Ortiz responded that a Level I certificate is currently required, and that a Level ll is desired.
Heustace Lewis stated that we want to make Level Two required.Civil Service Commission Minutes
December 6, 2006
Page 7 of 10
Serena Wright responded that requiring a Level Two is preferred, but not required, and is consistent
with the notice provided to the unions.
Vice Chair Stivers advised staff of typographical errors.
Commissioner Zeitlin asked if the job bulletin should specify what type of driver's license is needed;
the minimum educational level - should it be at least a high school education or equivalent; and
should work schedules be mentioned as they have been in the past?
Serena Wright responded that the updated job bulletin was provided to the Commission on the dais,
and their comments have been duly noted.
Moved by Commissioner Zeitlin, seconded by Vice Chair Stivers, the motion to approve the revised
open/competitive recruitment bulletin and revised classification specification for Traffic Signal
Technician was unanimously carried.
Item A-10: Parks Manager: New Open/Competitive Recruitment Bulletin and Revised
Classification Specification
Serena Wright gave overview of staff report.
Chair Motyl asked if this was Don Marquardt's position?
Serena Wright responded, "yes."
Commissioner Whitaker advised staff of typographical errors, and also stated that the trees in the Dog
Park need to be maintained.
Commissioner Barriciello asked about changes made to the bulletin received on the dais, specifically,
change to reflect "supervisory" experience, accrual of floating holidays, and IRS limits on amount
contributed to deferred compensation.
Linda Coll responded that floating holidays are granted in a lump-sum bank at the beginning of the
fiscal year, and pro-rated for new employees. Two separate transactions are required to deposit
accruals to deferred compensation; employees must designate the specific amount to be contributed
to deferred compensation up to the limit(s) set by law.
Moved by Chair Motyl, seconded by Vice Chair Stivers, the motion to approve the new
open/competitive recruitment bulletin and revised classification specification for Parks Manager was
unanimously carried.
Item A-11: Legal Operations Manager: Revised Classification Specification; Code
Enforcement Supervisor: New Recruitment Bulletin and Revised Classification
Specification
Serena Wright gave an overview of staff report.Civil Service Commission Minutes
December 6, 2006
Page 8 of 10
Legal O perations Manager:
Commissioner Whitaker inquired if the Legal Operations Manager performs manager duties. He
further questioned if there should be a minimum degree requirement for consistency, and if the
incumbent has a degree.
Serena Wright responded that the incumbent does not have a degree, and further stated that she
believes there is a value in both education and experience.
Commissioner Whitaker asked, if this is a managerial type of position, shouldn't a minimum of a
Bachelor's Degree be required.
Carol Schwab, City Attorney, responded that in her experience, she does not believe a degree is
required. For this position, organizational skills, leadership and knowledge of operations are
essential.
Commissioner Whitaker questioned that if skills are crucial then why not make a degree requirement.
Carol Schwab responded that, in her experience, some employees with degrees do not have the
same skill level of experienced employees.
Commissioner Whitaker responded that he recognizes experience is valuable, and asked about
substituting equivalent experience in-lieu of education.
Commissioner Zeitlin added that she also shares the same sentiment that Commissioner Whitaker
expressed; as she reads through the job description it appears that the incumbent is doing relatively
high level legal work. And based on trying to establish consistency on class specs, it is her memory
that the Commission has approved the equivalency language that included a 4 year degree with the
caveat of additional experience substituting in lieu of education.
Serena Wright responded that current language will not dissuade applicants from applying and will
also give more flexibility to the hiring department.
Carol Schwab stated that she believes the salary is set similar to that of other management positions,
and that law enforcement or legal experience is valuable in the position.
Commissioner Whitaker stated that, in his experience, the duties and responsibilities of a Law Office
Manager are significantly different than those of a Legal Operations Manager who is responsible for
budget preparation and making presentations to the City Council, and that Law Office Managers
typically do not have a degree.
Commissioner Barriciello stated she is relying on the experience and expertise of staff, and is
comfortable with the specification as written, adding that the position would be overpaid if all he/she
did was make copies.
Moved by Vice Chair Stivers, seconded by Chair Motyl, the motion to approve the revised
classification specification for Legal Operations Manager did not carry, 2-3:
AYES: Commissioners Motyl and Stivers
NOES: Commissioners Barriciello, Whitaker, and ZeitlinCivil Service Commission Minutes
December 6, 2006
Page 9 of 10
Discussion continued regarding further revising the classification specification in order to obtain
Commission approval.
Serena Wright suggested the inclusion of a bachelor degree in addition to additional experience
substituting on a year-for-year basis.
Linda Coll recommended substituting relevant general experience rather than language describing
specific experience.
Moved by Commissioner Whitaker, seconded by Vice Chair Stivers, the motion to approve the revised
classification specification for Legal Operations Manager was unanimously carried.
Code Enforcement Supervisor:
Chair Motyl asked if a Code Enforcement Supervisor works in a City Hall office.
Serena Wright responded that the position is within the City Attorney's Office.
Commissioner Whitaker advised staff of typographical errors.
Commissioner Barriciello questioned if degree requirements should be different for supervisors versus
managers.
Commissioner Whitaker asked if there is a distinction between supervisors and management
employees. If there is a consensus, then he would agree that degree requirements should be
consistent regardless of the department they work in.
Commissioner Zeitlin responded that we should be consistent with our past practice with language as
it pertains to supervisors and managers.
Commissioner Barriciello stated that the class spec is similar to the Legal Operations Manager
specification. Should we address the fact that in the reading of the duties of the position, as to
planning and organization skills, and supervision of employees, it is not clear whether or not they
need a four year college degree.
Carol Schwab responded that this is definitely a management position that supervises subordinates
and interprets codes. She wants the ability to fill the position with the best candidate.
Serena Wright stated the position must also exercise a high level of independent judgment.
Chair Motyl suggested using the same equivalency language as Legal Operations Manager.
Moved by Commissioner Whitaker, seconded by Commissioner Zeitlin, the motion to approve the new
open/competitive recruitment bulletin and revised classification specification for Code Enforcement
Officer, with amended equivalency language, was unanimously carried.
Chair Motyl recessed the meeting to Closed Session at 8:50 PM.Civil Service Commission Minutes
December 6, 2006
Page 10 of 10
The meeting reconvened at 9:10 PM.
Chair Motyl stated that there was nothing to report from Closed Session.
None.
Serena Wright gave an overview of Items from Staff.
Commissioner Zeitlin requested and received consensus to agendize a discussion item on the Civil
Service Commission's meeting process.
The Civil Service Commission wished everyone Happy Holidays.
Moved by Commissioner Zeitlin, seconded by Vice Chair Stivers, the motion to adjourn the meeting to
the regular Civil Service Commission Meeting of January 3, 2007, at 6:00 pm, in the Mike Balkman
Council Chambers, was unanimously carried.
The meeting was adjourned at 9:12 pm.
APPROVED BY:
Serena Wright, Personnel & Employee Relations Director
Secretary to the Commission
I3