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CC - ACTION ITEM: (1) Discussion Regarding the Use of Administrative Interns to Support City Council Efforts; and (2) Direction to the City Manager as Deemed Appropriate.
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Meeting Date: January 22, 2024
Contact Person/Dept. Stephanie Condran/Human Resources Department
Phone Number: (310) 253-5640
Fiscal Impact: Yes [X] No [] General Fund: Yes [X] No []
Attachments: Yes [] No [X]
Public Notification: (E-Mail) Meetings and Agendas - City Council (01/17/2024)
Department Approval: Dana Anderson, Human Resources Director (12/14/2023)
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BACKGROUND
During the June 26, 2023, City Council meeting, Council Member Puza received consensus from Mayor Vera and Council Member O'Brien to agendize a discussion regarding the utilization of administrative interns by Council Members. Staff is providing an update regarding the request for additional information on this topic, including the associated requirements, and costing.
DISCUSSION
The City recently conducted an agency survey to inquire if surrounding agencies currently staff administrative interns to support City Council. The City of Beverly Hills, City of Hawthorne, and City of Manhattan Beach utilize a paid administrative City Council Intern role. These three agencies utilize an administrative Intern classification specification and require candidates to submit an employment application. The City of Santa Monica utilizes an unpaid administrative intern program and classifies this position as a volunteer opportunity. Hiring unpaid administrative interns sets limitations on the responsibilities and duties they can perform. The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) outlines the limitations for hiring unpaid Interns as follows:
* Unpaid administrative intern programs must primarily benefit the intern, rather than the employer.
* The employer would be required to limit the responsibilities assigned to the ...
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