Human resources reports rising caseload, vacancies and seeks reclassification and HRIS support

Human Resources Director Warrington presented staffing analytics and operational pressures to the council at the Sept. 29 workshop.

Warrington said the city’s employee count rose from about 100 in 2020 to roughly 141 FTEs; the city currently has about 18 vacancies and a turnover rate near 10%. She said separations have increased — "we've already had 13 separations this year" — and noted that much of the recent HR workload has come from complex leave and accommodation cases: "We've had 38 FMLA cases and accommodation cases last year and 31 so far this year," which she said represents 25% of current staff under some protected leave process.

Warrington asked to reclassify an HR technician to an HR specialist when the incumbent retires and estimated this reclassification would be budget-neutral for 2027 if hired at the proposed step; she estimated a full-range increase could be about 15% and roughly $20,000 with salary and benefits if hiring at current top-of-range. She also recommended investment in an HRIS to enable reporting, cross-system integrations and to reduce manual tracking of separations and onboarding.

Councilors asked about vacancy concentration; Warrington said vacancies are spread across departments with somewhat higher numbers in community development, police and public works. Staff said more details and cost estimates will be provided in subsequent budget materials.