Jami Szalla

The commission reviewed committee updates, including information on a Women's Business Enterprise (WBE) event. The Chairman discussed concerns regarding the VMWare contract, noting that it proceeded despite lacking commission approval, and addressed issues regarding the Urban Redevelopment Authority's reporting practices. The commission reviewed a human resources and civil service contract for workers' compensation audit services, ultimately deciding not to approve the plan due to insufficient evidence of good faith efforts to meet MBE or WBE participation requirements. Furthermore, the meeting included discussions on the Housing Authority security contract, the need for a formalized process regarding waivers, and clarification of city ordinances.

The commission reviewed and acted upon a request from the Director of Public Works to add names to the existing eligibility list for the Project Manager-Facilities position. The request was approved in accordance with Civil Service rules as the current list was less than one year old and appropriate departmental actions had been documented.

The Commission addressed several personnel matters, including noting discharge and suspension letters for public works employees. Requests from police officer recruit candidates to lift civil service waivers were granted. The Commission approved nominations for several non-competitive positions, including Business Relationship Manager, Project Management Office Lead, and Recreation Leader 1. Additionally, the Commission approved a request to reschedule an appeal hearing and acknowledged correspondence regarding a probationary termination.

The board discussed public comments concerning the need for legal services funding for eviction prevention, particularly regarding a grant-funded model versus a fee-for-service model. Members also reviewed community survey results and data on housing priorities. A primary focus of the meeting was the development and preliminary approval of the 2021 Allocation Plan, which involved adjusting funding allocations for the Rental Gap Program, the Homeowner Assistance Program, and other initiatives based on current pipeline demands and staff recommendations. The board also addressed queries regarding mortgage assistance and the administration of HOF funds.

The Commission addressed several personnel and administrative matters. These included adding names to eligibility lists for Inspector, Construction Code and Senior Project Coordinator positions, and certifying appointments for various Fire Department leadership roles. Requests were approved to classify specific positions as Civil Service Non-Competitive, including Assistant Real Estate Manager and Real Time Crime Specialist. Additionally, the Commission approved nominations for staff positions, a title change for a fiscal role, updates to equipment requirements for the Heavy Equipment Operator exam, and a request to lift a civil service waiver. The Commission also acknowledged a suspension notice and reviewed a upcoming Fire Battalion Chief written examination.