HomeMy WebLinkAbout22-135M.
WHEREAS, the Board of Supervisors is empowered to establish compensation for Non -Represented employees;
WHEREAS, the Government Code Sections 3500-3511, known as the Meyers-Milias-Brown Act allows for full
communication between public employees; and
WHEREAS, the M�eyers-Milias-Brown Act provides for a reasonable method of resolving disputes regarding wages,
hours and other terms and conditions ofemployment; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to Government Code Section 3502, the classifications outlined in the Salary Ordinance as
non -represented are not represented bvarecognized bargaining unit; and
WHEREAS, Resolution Number 21-096 has specified the salary and benefits entitled to appointed non -represented
employees.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Board ofSupervisors ofthe County ofButte, State mfCalifornia, that
this resolution will supersede and replace Resolution Number 2I~096; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the salaries, benefits, and terms and conditions mfemployment for Non -
Represented Classifications listed in, the Butte County Salary Ordinance are hereby established as follows:
1. COMPENSATION
Market/Equity adjustmentfor represented dass,ificadnnsbased omthe Koff & Associates Classification
and Compensation Study shall be implemented to the marked median in the following manner:
MarketlEguity Adjustments Median Between 0% and 10%
Effective the first full pay period following adoption by the Board of Supervisors, all classifications where the %
below the market median is 0 to 10%, shall have the salary range for their classification adjusted to the median.
Market/Egulty Adjustments Median, Between 10% and 15%
Effective the first full pay period of July 2023, all classifications where the % below the market median was between
10% and 15%, shall have the salary range for their classification adjusted to the median.
Market/Eglui!y Adjustments Median Greater Than 15%
Effective the first full pay period mf July ZO24,all classifications where the 76below the market median
Additionally, the County will make a one-time payments to each employee in the following amounts minus
applicable payroll deductions:
$2,000 to be paid the first full pay period following adoption by the Board of Supervisors
$2,000 on the first paycheck of July 2023
1.1 Initial Step Placement
Except as specified in 1.3 below, the entrance salary for a new employee entering County service shall be the first,
second, or third step of the salary range far the classification to which the employee is appointed, depending upon
the knowledge, skills, and abilities of the new employee on the date of hire. Such initial step placement shall be at
the sole discretion of the appointing authority.
1.2 Salary Step Plan
Except as specified in 1.3 below, eligibility for salary step movement shall be based upon time in the classification
and based upon merit, at the sole discretion of the appointing authority, and with no right to appeal. Non -
represented employees shall be eligible for advancement to the next step in the range after completion of twenty-
six (26) full pay periods of satisfactory performance in the current step, and upon the approval of the appointing
authority.
1.3 Out of Sequence Step Increases
In addition to the provisions of Personnel Rules governing merit advancement within range, the appointing
authority may grant out of sequence merit advancements up to twice for an employee in a specific classification.
1.4 Cost of Living/Benefit Adjustments
In no instance shall the Non -Represented unit receive a lesser cumulative benefit package than that agreed to by
Butte County Management & Supervisory Unit.
1.5 Salary—AssistantDirector
The top step of assistant department head salary ranges will be set at a range that considers a number of factors,
including but not limited to:
• Current compensation of Director;
• Market conditions;
• Compensation increases received via the tie with the Butte County Management and Supervisory Unit
(section 1.4).
1.6 Non -Represented Classifications Compensation Structure
All non -represented salaries shall be as indicated in Butte County Salary Ordinance for non -represented
classifications and may be adjusted as Department Head salaries change, at which time the Board of Supervisors
may consider maintaining the historical salary relationships within the departments.
1.7 Cell Phone Allowance
At the option of the employee and with appointing authority approval, providing appropriate funds have been
budgeted, employee may opt to receive a monthly cell phone allowance of seventy dollars ($70.00) for use of a
privately owned cell phone to conduct County business.
1.8 Safety Footwear Allowance
County shall provide a reimbursement of up to one hundred dollars ($100.00) per fiscal year to all employees in
classifications where the nature of the work warrants it, and the County has pre -approved an individual's
eligibility for the safety footwear allowance under this section. This reimbursement shall be for either the
purchase or repair of safety footwear bearing the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM), but shall
not exceed one hundred dollars ($100.00) per fiscal year.
1.9 Travel Allowance and Mileage Reimbursement
Where in -county travel warrants it, appointing authority approves it, and appropriate funding has been
budgeted, employee shall be provided a monthly mileage allowance of two hundred fifty dollars ($250.00) for all
within -County travel. Additionally, employees included in this resolution shall be reimbursed at the current IRS
allowable rate for all work related travel in his or her private vehicle outside of the County. Employee who has a
County assigned emergency vehicle which is available for their use during non -business hours is not eligible for
this allowance.
Meal Reimbursement
Non -represented employees shall comply with the Travel Policy contained in the Personnel Rules.
1.10 Tuition Reimbursement
Upon written request of the employee and recommendation of the department head, employees enrolled in
accredited classes or courses which are directly job related to the employees' position shall be entitled to
reimbursement of one-half (1/2) of the cost of required instructional materials or tuition, upon proof of successful
completion of the class or course, up to a maximum of five hundred dollars ($500.00) per fiscal year. This program
is subject to available funds and not to be used in lieu of other programs.
1.11.1 Alternate Reimbursement for Tuition
Effective July 1, 2006, in lieu of 1.11 above, an employee who is enrolled in an accredited college course or courses
in the pursuit of a formal degree that the appointing authority has approved in advance and in writing and verifying
the course or courses directly apply to the position and department of employment, may be provided up to half
the cost of the college units completed per semester upon proof of completion of the semester with a GPA of 3.0
or better. In return, employee agrees that if he/she voluntarily leaves the employ of the County within three (3)
years of receiving this tuition reimbursement pursuant to this paragraph shall reimburse the County for the tuition
reimbursement received.
Some or all of that repayment may be accomplished through a deduction from the employee's final paycheck
assuming that check is for an amount equal to or greater than the amount that is the subject of this resolution.
The County of Butte reserves the right to recover any outstanding amounts that may be due under this agreement
as provided by law.
1.11 Standby PaY
Status
Employee shall be entitled to receive sixty dollars ($60.00) for each eight—hour standby shift, or portion
thereof, as ordered and authorized by an appointing authority. A standby shift is defined as any eight (8)
hour shift following the employee's normally assigned shift.
b. Response Time
Employees placed on standby status shall keep the appointing authority or designee advised of their
location during the standby shift and shall respond to duty within two (2) hours from the time of
notification. When an appointing authority determines it is in the interest of the County to provide
electronic paging devices for standby workers, the appointing authority shall provide and maintain such
devices and instruct workers in proper use.
1.12 Bilingual Pay Differentia[ (Bilingual Premium)
When it has been determined that an employee's use of bilingual language skills or specialized communications
skills are essential and critical for the successful performance of the functions of a County department, the
employee shall receive a pay differential of eight dollars ($8.00) per day ($80.00 per pay period) of compensated
service. Authorized time off of less than four consecutive weeks shall not affect the calculation of bilingual pay
(approved vacation exceeding four weeks shall be excluded).
1.13 Moving expenses
At the discretion of the appointing authority, and concurrence by the Chief Administrative Officer, and providing
there are sufficient funds within the hiring department's budget to do so, the appointing authority may provide
moving expenses to a newly hired employee where the individual is moving from a distance of no less than 200
miles as follows:
a. As an incentive to accept the position, the appointing authority may offer an amount not to exceed five
thousand dollars ($5,000.00) toward direct expenses incurred by the new appointment in his/her relocation
to Butte County.
b. In return, employee must agree in writing to repay that amount to the County of Butte should he/she
voluntarily leave the employ of County of Butte within three (3) years of his/her appointment to the position.
c. Some or all of that repayment maybe accomplished through a deduction from the employee's final paycheck
assuming that check is for an amount equal to or greater than that amount the subject of this agreement
The County of Butte reserves the right to recover any outstanding amounts that maybe due under this agreement
as provided by law.
1.14 Temporary Assignment to a Higher Paid Classification (Temporary Upgrade)
Whenever an employee is assigned in writing by the department head to work in a higher classification and,
therefore, performs substantially all of the duties of the higher classification for a period of more than ten (10)
cumulative working days or eighty (80) cumulative working hours in a fiscal year, the employee shall be entitled
to be compensated with an additional five percent (5%) over his/her current rate of pay, beginning with the
eleventh (11th) day or the eighty—first (81st) hour of the assignment. A continuous out—of—classification
assignment bridging two (2) fiscal years shall be treated as if it occurred during the prior fiscal year. For example,
an employee receiving the compensation for an assignment, which commences on June 15 of one fiscal year and
ended on July 5 of the succeeding fiscal year, would receive compensation for the entire assignment. Similarly,
an employee whose 11th day or eighty—first (81st) hour of out—of—classification assignment occurred during the
prior fiscal year would commence receiving compensation as of the 11th day or eighty—first (81st) hour. This
provision shall only be reported to PERS as pensionable compensation for Classic Members as defined by the
Public Employees' Pension Reform Act (PEPRA).
If a non -represented employee covered by the provisions of this resolution, is appointed to a position of interim
department head, said employee's salary shall be set by Board of Supervisors minute order.
1.15 Information Systems Assignment Com uter Operations Premium
A regular employee assigned to perform the principle information systems function in the department or division
and who is not classified as an information systems position shall receive an additional five percent (5%)
compensation calculated on base pay. The assignment must be made in writing and approved by the department
head. The additional compensation shall commence the first day of written assignment, providing said assignment
is for a minimum of two consecutive pay periods.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that non -represented employee benefits and/or conditions of employment that are not
defined in the Butte County Personnel Rules shall be as follows and that where there is a conflict between the Personnel
Rules and this Resolution, this Resolution shall supersede and take precedence:
2.0 TERMS AND CONDITIONS
2.1 Probationary Appointments
In addition to the provisions found in the Personnel Rules under Sections 7.2, 7.2.1, 7.3 and 7.4 employees
reporting directly to a department head who receive an unsatisfactory Performance Evaluation (which they
dispute) resulting in denial of a step increase, may request that the matter be reviewed by the Director -Human
Resources, or in the case of the Human Resources Department, by the Chief Administrative Officer. The Director -
Human Resources, or the Chief Administrative Officer, shall have the authority to review and attempt to mediate
the dispute; but the department head shall retain final authority to decide the matter.
2.2 Alternate Schedules
Upon the recommendation of a department head, flex -time, job -sharing and voluntary reduced work hours
programs may be established, after consultation with the Director -Human Resources. Any job -sharing program
will require that the benefits be pro -rated or as otherwise mutually agreed upon by both parties in writing.
Alternate work schedules may include 9/80 schedules, 4/10 schedules, and/or other alternative scheduling
patterns. Individuals assigned to such schedules shall accrue leaves and holidays on the same basis as employees
working the standard 5/8 work schedule; that is, eight (8) hours per day.
2.3 Lavoff
An appointing authority may initiate a layoff for a regular help position(s) due to administrative reorganization,
lack of work or appropriation by advising the Director -Human Resources of the number of positions,
classifications, department involved and the effective layoff date. The Director -Human Resources shall establish
a seniority list and shall consider employee status, length of service and efficiency in determining which employee
or employees are to be laid off and shall, in writing, inform the appointing authority and affected employees.
Seniority List Score Computation
a. Regular help employees appointed to a position with Butte County shall receive credit for compensated
regular help employment that has not been broken by a permanent separation. Employees who resign to
take extra help positions as a method of promotion shall receive credit for all time worked, even in the extra
help position. When there has been permanent separation, credit shall be given only for regular help
employment following such break in service. The seniority status accrued by those incumbent employees in
the Welfare, Health and Civil Disaster Departments under the Local Agency Personnel Standards prior to
August 7, 1976, shall remain on accrual.
b. One point seniority credit shall be given for each calendar month of regular help employment, unless specified
elsewhere herein, or any portion thereof excluding extended leaves of absence. Regular employees working
part—time schedules will be given fractional point credit for each month of service on a prorated basis.
c. Twelve points shall be subtracted from the seniority score of an employee who was the subject of a
disciplinary action that was appealable (under Section 7.1 of this Resolution, Appeal of Disciplinary Action)
and was not appealed or the disciplinary action was sustained.
When two or more employees have the same total seniority score the tie shall be broken and preference given
in the following sequence:
1. Employees with the greatest seniority in the department and the class in which layoff is being made and
in related higher classes.
2. Employees with the greatest seniority in the class in which the layoff is being made and in related higher
classes.
3. Employees with the greatest seniority in the department.
4. Employees whose names are drawn by lot by the Director -Human Resources.
Order of Separation in Reduction--in—Force
a. Employees in the same class within a department of layoff shall be separated during a reduction—in—force in
the following appointment type sequence:
1. Extra Help and Emergency
2. Provisional and Probationary
3. Permanent
b. Separation of employees shall be in the order in which their names appear on the seniority list for the affected
class, with those persons having the least seniority credit being the first separated.
Layoff Notice
The Director -Human Resources shall send written notice to the last known address of each employee affected by
a layoff at least thirty (30) days prior to the effective date of the action, except for employees who are impacted
by "bumping," in which case notice shall be sent fourteen (14) days prior to the effective date of the action. The
notice shall include the:
1. reason for layoff
2. classes to which the employee may demote within the department, if any
3. effective date of the action
4. seniority score of the employee
5. formula by which the seniority score is computed
6. appeal rights of the employee
7. conditions governing retention on and reinstatement from reemployment lists, and
8. rules regarding waiver of reinstatement and voluntary withdrawal from the reemployment list.
Demotion in Lieu of Layoff
In lieu of being laid off, a regular employee may elect demotion to:
a. any position held by an employee with a lower seniority score in a class with substantially the same or lower
maximum salary in which the layoff employee held permanent status; or
any vacant position in a class in the same line of work as the class of layoff, but of lesser responsibility if such
classes are designated by the Director of Human Resources.
Demotion rights to specified classes shall be applicable only within the department of layoff. To be considered
for demotion in lieu of layoff, an employee must notify the Director of Human Resources in writing of this election
no later than five (5) days after receiving the notice of layoff.
Layoff Reinstatement
Permanent employees laid off who are reinstated to a regular County position within twenty-four (24) months
from the effective date of layoff, shall be reinstated with seniority rights including time served towards annual
merit increase. Such employee shall be credited with one hundred percent (100%) of unused sick leave on accrual
at the time of layoff and shall accrue vacation benefits at the same rate established by prior seniority. An
employee reinstated to the same classification or lower classification in the same class series in which permanent
status was held at the time of layoff shall not be required to serve a new probationary period. A former employee
reinstated in a classification with an equal or lower pay range than that held by the employee at the time of layoff,
pursuant to the provisions of these rules, shall remain on the valid reinstatement list. Should an employee on a
layoff list be employed by the County in a classification with a higher pay range than that held at the time of layoff,
the employee's name shall automatically be removed from the layoff reinstatement list upon completion of the
probationary period.
Layoff — Probationary Employees
Probationary employees laid off shall have their names placed back on the eligible list from which they were
appointed providing it is still in existence. Should such employees be later appointed from the eligible list, the
appointment will be the same as for others appointed from the list for the first time. A new probationary period
and other terms and conditions of a new appointment shall apply.
3.0 LEAVES OF ABSENCE
3.1 Vacation Leave Accrual and Use
Employees shall be entitled to earn vacation according to the following schedule:
Amount of Continuous County Service Earned at the Rate of:
Up to 5 years of service 15 days/year (120 hours)
Beginning of 6th year through end of 10th year of service 20 days/year (160 hours)
Beginning of 11th year through end of 20th year of service 25 days/year (200 hours)
21 years and over 27 days/year (216 hours)
Vacation will be credited biweekly on a prorated portion of full—time compensated service. Employees with less
than six (6) months of uninterrupted service shall not be entitled to a vacation. Vacation time off may be
requested by the employee subject to the approval of the appointing authority. Effective the beginning of the
first pay period commencing the calendar year, an employee's vacation accrual shall not exceed twice the annual
earnings.
3.1.1 Vacation Carryover
Refer to Personnel Rules
3.1.2 Vacation Pa nut
Upon termination an employee shall be compensated for all unused vacation accrual and entitlement.
3.1.3 Vacation Leave and New Hire Transfer From Public Sector Employer
In addition to the vacation leave policy outlined in the Personnel Rules, an appointing authority may authorize
the instatement of up to twenty hours of vacation leave within sixty (60) calendar days of hire for a newly hired
non -represented employee who is transferring from a California public sector employer (i.e. state, county, city,
school, or special district) to work for Butte County by completing a personnel action form and submitting it to
the Chief Administrative Officer or designee for approval and final processing.
3.1.4 Vacation Buy Back
Employees shall, have the option of requesting pay in lieu of time off for up to a maximum of 144 hours of
vacation time each calendar year in increments of eight (8) hours. Such requests are subject to the approval of
the department head and availability of funds.
3.2 Accrued Administrative Leave
Employee shall receive administrative leave in lieu of paid overtime. Administrative leave in lieu of paid overtime
shall be accumulated at a rate of 10 days per year (3.0769 hours per biweekly pay period) to a maximum of 44
(forty-four) days (352 hours). If employee terminates from the county in good standing, he/she shall be
compensated for any administrative leave accrued under this section, up to the maximum accrued amount.
In extraordinary circumstances, the Chief Administrative Officer may authorize additional administrative leave be
granted for an employee(s). Extraordinary circumstances shall mean circumstances involving extended periods of
very long hours. The additional leave shall not be construed to constitute overtime compensation nor shall it be
construed to compensate employees on an hour for hour basis.
Usage of administrative leave for paid leave shall be subject to the same limitations as the use of vacation leave,
except that no minimum period of employment shall be required before administrative leave may be utilized or
cash payment made following the end of each calendar year.
3.3 Bereavement Leave
If the employee believes it necessary to be absent from duty because of the death of a member of the
individual's "immediate family" as defined in the Personnel Rules, the employee may be absent for forty hours
(40) with pay for each occasion. Any time used in this manner shall not be charged to sick leave or vacation, but
shall be documented and recorded as bereavement leave. in the case of the death of individuals other than
those defined as immediate family who were living in employee's household as family members, approval for
the use of bereavement leave shall be on a case-by-case basis at the sole discretion of the Director -Human
Resources.
3.4 Salaried Employee Leave
Employees covered by this resolution shall be provided "salaried employee leave" for authorized absences of
less than a full day if they have no paid time available. No deduction shall be made from employee's pay for
absences of less than one day.
3.5 Paid Administrative Leave
The department head in his/her sole discretion, may, when extraordinary circumstances exist and necessary for
the operation of the department, place an employee on paid administrative leave, subject to call. In the event
an employee is placed on Paid Administrative Leave the following workday the employee's schedule shall be
changed to Monday through Friday 8:00am to S:OOpm. The employee shall remain available through his/her
home telephone or cell phone during regular working hours, and is expected to respond to calls within one (1)
hour of notification. Failure of an employee to respond to a call will result in either his/her accrued leave being
utilized for the period of time that he/she did not respond, or he/she will be placed in a non -compensated
status. In addition, a failure to respond when called will constitute a violation of the directive that that the
employee remains available during regular working hours, and may result in the employee being subjected to
disciplinary action, up to and including termination from employment.
3.6 Sick Leave
Covered employees shall earn sick leave with pay at a rate of 3.6923 hours per biweekly pay period (ninety-six
[96] hours per year). Sick leave may be accumulated without limit during a period of continuous employment.
3.6.1 Sick Leave Buy -Back Option
On retirement or termination in good standing, an employee who has on accrual more than two hundred and
forty (240) hours of sick leave may be compensated for that portion over two hundred and forty (240) hours at
one-half (1/2) the normal rate of pay for the employee up to a maximum of three thousand dollars ($3,000.00).
3.7 Holiday Leave
Designated holidays are as follows:
1)
New Year's Day
January 1
2)
Martin Luther King
Third Monday in January
3)
Washington's Birthday
Third Monday in February
4)
Cesar Chavez Day
March 31
5)
Memorial Day
Last Monday in May
6)
Juneteenth
June 19th
7)
Independence Day
July 4
8)
Labor Day
First Monday in September
9)
Veterans Day
November 11
10)
Thanksgiving Day
Designated Thursday in November
11)
Post -Thanksgiving Day
Friday following Thanksgiving
12)
Christmas Day
December 25
13)
Every day appointed by the
President, Governor, and the Board of Supervisors for a public fast,
thanksgiving, or holiday, when the day is celebrated as a State or Federal holiday. Days declared as Federal
holidays shall be observed as County holidays.
When a designated holiday falls on Sunday, the following Monday shall be observed. When a designated holiday
falls on Saturday, the preceding Friday shall be observed. A regular employee required to work on a designated
holiday, or whose regular scheduled day off falls on a designated holiday, shall at the discretion of the appointing
authority be entitled to either equivalent compensated time off scheduled the day preceding the designated
holiday, or within sixty (60) days following the designated holiday, or equivalent compensation to be paid within
sixty (60) days following the designated holiday.
Eligibility for Holiday Pay. Each covered employee in a compensated employment status on the assigned workday
immediately preceding and the assigned workday immediately following a designated holiday shall be entitled to
compensation for the designated holiday.
Holiday Compensation. Regular employees required to work on a designated holiday or whose regular scheduled
day off falls on a designated holiday shall, at the discretion of the appointing authority, be entitled to equivalent
compensated time off scheduled either the day preceding the designated holiday or within one hundred eighty
(180) days following the designated holiday.
4.0 RETIREMENT
4.1 CalPERS Retirement Plan
Employee is eligible to participate in the County retirement program as contracted through the California Public
Employees' Retirement System ("CaIPERS"). The retirement program is integrated with Social Security.
Participation in the retirement plan shall be consistent with the requirements of the California Public Employees'
Pension Reform Act of 2013 as it is currently enacted and as it is amended in the future, and its implementing
regulations, referred to hereinafter collectively as "PEPRA". To the extent PEPRA conflicts with any provision of
this Resolution, PEPRA will govern.
a. "New Members" - For purposes of this section "New Member" is defined by PEPRA to be any of the following
(statutory reference is to the California Government Code):
(1) An individual who becomes a member of any public retirement system for the first time on or after January
1, 2013, and who was not a member of any other public retirement system prior to that date.
(2) An individual who becomes a member of a public retirement system for the first time on or after January 1,
2013, and who was a member of another public retirement system prior to that date, but who was not
subject to reciprocity under subdivision (c) of Section 7522.02.
(3) An individual who was an active member in a retirement system and who, after a break in service of more
than six months, returned to active membership in that system with a new employer. For purposes of this
subdivision, a change in employment between state entities or from one school employer to another shall
not be considered as service with a new employer.
Non -represented employees who are "New Members", as defined above, are eligible to participate in the
County retirement program as contracted through the California Public Employees' Retirement System
("CaIPERS"). The retirement program is integrated with Social Security and the retirement benefit is based on
the highest average annual compensation over a three-year period and the 2% @ 62 formula (2.7% @ 57 safety
formula).
b. "Classic Members": For purposes of this section "Classic Member" is defined as a member who does not
meet the definition of a "New Member" as defined by PEPRA. Non -represented employees who are "Classic
Members", as defined above, are eligible to participate in the County retirement program as contracted through
the California Public Employees' Retirement System ("CaIPERS"). The retirement program is integrated with
Social Security and the retirement benefit is based on the highest single year of salary and on the 2% @ 55
formula (3% @ 50 or 2% @ 50 safety formula, depending on the job classification).
4.1.1 Retirement Contribution
Non -Safety Classifications
"Classic Members": Non -safety employees will pay on a pre-tax basis seven percent (7%) of salary for the
employee share of his/her CaIPERS pension.
"New Members": Non -safety employees shall pay an amount that is equal to one half (1/2) the normal cost
of his/hers CaIPERS pension, or the current contribution rate of similarly situated employees, whichever is
greater.
Safety Classifications:
"Classic Members": "Safety" members will pay on a pre-tax basis nine percent (9%) of salary for the employee
share of his/her CalPERS pension.
"New Members": "Safety" members shall pay an amount that is equal to one half (1/2) the normal cost of
his/hers CalPERS pension or the current contribution rate of similarly situated employees, whichever is
greater.
4.2 Retirement Credit for Sick Leave
The CalPERS contract allows unused accumulated sick leave to be converted to service time per the applicable
provisions of the California Government Code. This option is available to all employees and limited, for those
employees who do not use all of their accrued sick leave conversion option for sick leave buy-back or health plan
coverage, to that portion of the sick leave not actually used for the selected option.
An employee may, upon retirement from the County under CalPERS, use any sick leave accumulation not used
as part of the calculated options for cash out or sick leave conversion as service time, an accordance with the
CaIPERS formula.
4.3 Deferred Income Plan
Employee may participate in an IRS Section 457 Deferred Compensation Plan up to the maximum allowed by the
law.
5.0 INSURANCE
5.1 Unemployment Insurance
Unemployment insurance is provided according to State law.
5.2 HEALTH AND INSURANCE
5.2.1 Health Plan
Employee Health Plan Eligibility. All regular employees assigned to a one-half (1/2) time or more position and
the employee's dependents, including registered domestic partner, shall be entitled to participate in the County -
sponsored group Cafeteria Plan. Employees working less than full-time and hired after November 1, 1987, shall
receive prorated health contributions rounding to the nearest one quarter time; i.e., either fifty percent (50%),
seventy-five percent (75%), or one hundred percent (100%) of the County contribution for full-time employees.
Within the first thirty (30) days of employment, the regular help employee must elect or decline health
coverage. If an election is not made, the employee will be presumed to have declined coverage and will be
eligible at the next open enrollment or in conjunction with a qualifying event. The effective date of coverage
will be the first of the month following thirty (30) days regular help employment. Coverage will terminate on
the last day of the month following the employment termination month. The County must be notified of a
Qualifying Event within thirty (30) days of the date of the event, or otherwise as required by law. All
documentation/verification must accompany the request for coverage.
5.2.2 Description
The Butte County Flexible Benefits Plan consisting of the Tax Deferred Medical Premium option, the Dependent
Care Reimbursement option and the un -reimbursed Health Care Cost option, (hereafter "Cafeteria Plan") is
available to all employees in regular -help positions (hereafter "employee"). There will be two (2) participation
levels, identified as Employee "A" and Employee "B" as per Section 5.2.3. Once the selection is made, it will
remain in force until the following plan year, unless a qualifying event, as defined by the IRS, occurs. The fee for
a third party administrator will be paid by the County.
The basic group term life insurance will continue to be provided at County expense and will not be part of the
Cafeteria Plan.
5.2.3 Participation Levels
Employee A - CORE PLAN
Employees who elect Option A to participate in the County sponsored medical plan will receive the County
health benefits flex contribution (as specified below) to be utilized to purchase their selected medical plan and
cannot be cashed out. In the event that an employee selects a medical plan that results in an excess County
contribution, that excess contribution will be deemed a non -health flex contribution that may be taken as
taxable income or applied to pre-tax dental, vision or other alternative approved benefits. Should an employee
decline County sponsored medical coverage, such employee will receive a cash -in -lieu payment if the employee
complies with the requirements outlined in Option B below.
Effective the pay period beginning October 15, 2022, the County will pay to Employee's Flexible Benefit Account
the following amounts for employees who election Option A:
Employee only $607.10
Employee plus one $1119.00
Family $1438.42
The above amounts include the PEMHCA minimum which is paid outside of the County's Section 125 plan.
Employees, regardless of medical plan participation status, are eligible to enroll in the County's dental and/or
vision programs. Employee contributions for dental and vision will be deducted from employee's regular payroll
on a pre-tax basis. Employees that have elected Option A can also elect to participate in optional benefits. If the
employee has any surplus Flexible Benefit Account credits after making all elections required to participate in
the health insurance, the employee can use that surplus toward the Flexible Benefit Options. Employees that
wish to participate in the optional benefits in the plan, with the exception of the cash back option, but do not
have any surplus credits, can elect to have pre-tax payroll deductions in an amount to cover the cost of their
elections.
Premium Holiday: In the event that a "premium holiday" is declared by the County's health plan administrator or
provider in which health plan premiums are not required to be paid for a period of time, the following shall occur:
a. the County shall retain ownership and sole rights to the County's monthly contributions, as stated
above, for this period;
b. employees shall not be required to contribute their portion of monthly premiums for this same period.
Option B - FLEXIBLE BENEFIT OPTIONS
Employees who decline County sponsored medical coverage and elect Option B must provide the following in
order to receive the cash -in -lieu:
(1) proof that the employee and all individuals for whom the employee intends to claim a personal exemption
deduction ("tax family"), have or will have minimum essential coverage through another source of group health
insurance (coverage not obtained in the individual market or through Covered California) for the plan year to
which the opt out arrangement applies ("opt out period"); and
(2) the employee signs an attestation that the employee and his/her tax family have or will have such minimum
essential coverage for the opt out period. An employee must provide the attestation every plan year at open
enrollment or within 30 days after the start of the plan year. The opt -out payment cannot be made and the
County will not in fact make payment if the County knows that the employee or tax family member doesn't have
such alternative coverage, or if the conditions in this paragraph are not otherwise satisfied.
Effective the pay period beginning October 15, 2022, employees hired on or before December 31, 2013, will
receive an employer flex credit contribution of $503.34 per month, paid in equal biweekly payments of $232.31
for "employees" who elect and satisfy the requirements outlined above for Option B. Employees hired on or
after January 1, 2014, will receive an employer flex credit contribution to $300 per month, paid in equal
biweekly payments of $138.46 for employees who elect and satisfy the requirements outlined above for Option
B.
Employees may elect a pre-tax deduction (through regular payroll or cash -in -lieu) to purchase any of the Flexible
Benefit Options listed in the Flexible Benefits Options Exhibit. Should an employee receive cash -in -lieu that is
not utilized for Flexible Benefit Options, the amount will be included as taxable income.
The County will meet and discuss any impacts that the Affordable Card Act Excise Tax may have on either of the
parties.
5.2.4 Administration
a) No benefits will be paid to employees in Option B until all requirements outlined in the Flexible Benefits —
Option B section have been met.
b) Part-time regular help employees will receive proportional benefits as provided in this Resolution. For
purposes of benefit plan eligibility, all employees assigned to a one-half (1/2) time or more position, who are in
a compensated status or uncompensated status on a qualified leave of absence, and the employee's
dependents, including registered domestic partner, effective January 1, 2005 pursuant to Family Code Section
297.5 shall be entitled to participate in the county's Flexible Benefits Plan. Employees working less than full-
time, with no qualifying leave or accrued leave usage, shall receive prorated benefits or pro -rated funding of
county share, rounding to the nearest one-quarter time; i.e., either fifty percent (50%), for employees working
thirty-six (36) hours to forty-five (45) hours per payroll period; seventy-five percent (75%), for employees
working forty-six (46) to sixty-four (64) hours per payroll period; or one hundred percent (100%), for employees
working sixty-five (65) hours or more per payroll period. This pro -rated amount is in addition to the regular
employee share.
This section does not affect part-time employees grandfathered into full-time benefit status under Section 5.2.1
of this resolution.
c) Any money deposited in the Flexible Benefits Account of an employee must be used during the plan year;
otherwise, the remaining balance reverts to the County. Upon separation, the money will be disbursed in
conformance with the rules and procedures explained to and authorized by the employee at the time of his/her
enrollment.
5.2.5 Retired Employee Options (for employees initially hired prior to January 1, 2010)
Employees initially hired prior to January 1, 2010, who retire under the provisions of the County's retirement
contract with CalPERS, and who are eligible under PEMHCA and who enroll in health care, may continue to insure
themselves and their eligible dependents for the health benefit portion of the -health plan by advising the Director -
Human Resources and advancing the full premium for health only coverage in a manner prescribed by the
Director -Human Resources.
Employees with ten (10) years or more of cumulative service with Butte County who, upon termination,
immediately retire under the provisions of the County's contract with CaIPERS, and who are eligible under
PEMHCA and who enroll in health care, shall be eligible for the health benefit only coverage for themselves
(employee only) to Medicare Supplemental Qualifying Age. Under the following conditions, CaIPERS members
subject to this Resolution shall be entitled to twelve (12) months of reimbursable health premiums immediately
following retirement. The contribution shall include the PEMHCA minimum contribution.
In addition, miscellaneous members are permitted as an option to the sick leave buy-back plan specified in
paragraph 3.6.1 of this resolution one of the following choices:
L To receive one (1) month of reimbursable health only premium for each day (eight hours) of sick leave on
accrual at the date of retirement; or
ii. To receive one (1) month of reimbursable health only premium for each two and one-half (2 1/2) days in
excess of thirty (30) days accrued sick leave to cover both employee and spouse to Medicare Supplemental
Qualifying Age; or
iii. One (1) month of reimbursable health plan benefits (employee only) will be granted for each day of
accrued sick leave until the sick leave credit is exhausted or the employee reaches Medicare Supplemental
Qualifying Age; and one (1) month of reimbursable health plan benefits for each one and one-half days in
excess of thirty (30) days accrued sick leave to cover employee's spouse until the sick leave credit is
exhausted or spouse reaches Medicare Supplemental Qualifying Age.
Enrollment of employee's spouse will be postponed until (a date to be determined), but only if the spouse
is eligible for enrollment to the health plan, effective that date, pursuant to the Health Insurance
Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). This election is irrevocable and will revert to employee only
coverage if employee's spouse is not eligible for enrollment on the effective date cited above pursuant to
HIPAA. The sick leave originally allocated for the coverage of the employee's spouse shall be forfeit if the
employee's spouse is not enrolled in the health plan on the effective date cited above. Right to
continuation of health coverage above is in addition to any rights the employee is entitled to under
COBRA.
Employees who have less than ten (10) years of service, who are eligible under PEMHCA and who enroll in health
care, shall receive the PEMHCA statutory minimum contribution.
5.2.6 Retired Ernployee Options (for employees initially_ hired January 1, 2010 or later
Employees initially hired January 1, 2010 or later, who retire under the provisions of the County's retirement
contract with CalPERS, and who are eligible under PEMHCA and who enroll in health care, may continue to insure
themselves and their eligible dependents for the health benefit portion of the health plan by advising the Director -
Human Resources and advancing the full premium for health only coverage in a manner prescribed by the
Director -Human Resources.
Employees with ten (10) years or more of cumulative service with Butte County who, upon termination,
immediately retire under the provisions of the County's contract with CaIPERS, and who are eligible under
PEMHCA and who enroll in health care, shall be eligible for the health benefit only coverage for themselves
(employee only) to Medicare Supplemental Qualifying Age. Under the following conditions, CaIPERS members
subject to this Resolution shall be entitled to twelve (12) months of reimbursable health premiums immediately
following retirement. The contribution shall include the PEMHCA minimum contribution.
In addition, miscellaneous members are permitted as an option to the sick leave buy-back plan specified in
paragraph 3.6.1 of this resolution one of the following choices:
i. To receive one (1) month of reimbursable health only premium for each day (eight hours) of sick leave on
accrual at the date of retirement; or
ii. To receive one (1) month of reimbursable health only premium for each two and one-half (2 1/2) days in
excess of thirty (30) days accrued sick leave to cover both employee and spouse to Medicare Supplemental
Qualifying Age; or
iii. One (1) month of reimbursable health plan benefits (employee only) will be granted for each day of
accrued sick leave until the sick leave credit is exhausted or the employee reaches Medicare Supplemental
Qualifying Age; and one (1) month of reimbursable health plan benefits for each one and one-half days in
excess of thirty (30) days accrued sick leave to cover employee's spouse until the sick leave credit is
exhausted or spouse reaches Medicare Supplemental Qualifying Age.
Enrollment of employee's spouse will be postponed until (a date to be determined), but only if the spouse
is eligible for enrollment to the health plan, effective that date, pursuant to the Health Insurance
Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). This election is irrevocable and will revert to employee only
coverage if employee's spouse is not eligible for enrollment on the effective date cited above pursuant to
HIPAA. The sick leave originally allocated for the coverage of the employee's spouse shall be forfeit if the
employee's spouse is not enrolled in the health plan on the effective date cited above. Right to
continuation of health coverage above is in addition to any rights the employee is entitled to under
COBRA.
Employees initially hired January 1, 2010 or later, who elect to receive one month of reimbursable health -only
premium in exchange for sick leave on accrual as outlined in i., ii., and iii. immediately above, shall receive county
premium contribution at the rate of the HMO, Delta DPO, and Vision Service Plan premiums for such coverage.
The contribution shall include the PEMHCA minimum statutory contribution.
Employees who have less than ten (10) years of service, who are eligible under PEMHCA and who enroll in health
care, shall receive the PEMHCA statutory minimum contribution.
5.2.6 Retired Employee Options (for employees initially hired „January 1. 2013 or later)
Employees initially hired January 1, 2013 or later, who retire under the provisions of the County's retirement
contract with CalPERS, and who are eligible under PEMHCA and who enroll in health care, may continue to insure
themselves and their eligible dependents for the health benefit portion of the health plan by advising the Director -
Human Resources and advancing the full premium for health only coverage in a manner prescribed by the
Director -Human Resources.
Employees with five (5) years or more of cumulative service with Butte County who, upon termination,
immediately retire under the provisions of the County's contract with CalPERS, and who are eligible under
PEMHCA and who enroll in health care, shall be eligible for the health benefit only coverage for themselves
(employee only) to Medicare Supplemental Qualifying Age. Under the following conditions, CalPERS members
subject to this Resolution shall be entitled to twelve (12) months of reimbursable health premiums immediately
following retirement. The contribution shall include the PEMHCA minimum contribution.
In addition, miscellaneous members are permitted as an option to the sick leave buy-back plan specified in
paragraph 3.6.1 of this resolution one of the following choices:
L To receive one (1) month of reimbursable health only premium for each day (eight hours) of sick leave on
accrual at the date of retirement; or
ii. To receive one (1) month of reimbursable health only premium for each two and one-half (2 1/2) days in
excess of thirty (30) days accrued sick leave to cover both employee and spouse to Medicare Supplemental
Qualifying Age; or
iii. One (1) month of reimbursable health plan benefits (employee only) will be granted for each day of
accrued sick leave until the sick leave credit is exhausted or the employee reaches Medicare Supplemental
Qualifying Age; and one (1) month of reimbursable health plan benefits for each one and one-half days in
excess of thirty (30) days accrued sick leave to cover employee's spouse until the sick leave credit is
exhausted or spouse reaches Medicare Supplemental Qualifying Age.
Enrollment of employee's spouse will be postponed until (a date to be determined), but only if the spouse
is eligible for enrollment to the health plan, effective that date, pursuant to the Health Insurance
Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). This election is irrevocable and will revert to employee only
coverage if employee's spouse is not eligible for enrollment on the effective date cited above pursuant to
HIPAA. The sick leave originally allocated for the coverage of the employee's spouse shall be forfeit if the
employee's spouse is not enrolled in the health plan on the effective date cited above. Right to
continuation of health coverage above is in addition to any rights the employee is entitled to under
COBRA.
Employees initially hired January 1, 2013 or later, who elect to receive one month of reimbursable health -only
premium in exchange for sick leave on accrual as outlined in i., ii., and iii. immediately above, shall receive county
premium contribution at the rate of the HMO, Delta DPO, and Vision Service Plan premiums for such coverage.
The contribution shall include the PEMHCA minimum statutory contribution.
Employees who have less than five (5) years of service, who are eligible under PEMHCA and who enroll in health
care, shall receive the PEMHCA statutory minimum contribution.
5.3 Disability Insurance
a. Employee shall be required to participate in the Disability Insurance Plan. Premiums will be paid totally by the
employee through payroll deduction.
b. The Disability Insurance Plan shall be integrated with the County's sick leave plan and the employee shall be
allowed to use all accrued time available in addition to sick leave for each disability.
6. EMPLOYEE ASSISTANCE PROGRAM
Employee and eligible family members are entitled to participate in County's Employee Assistance Program in
accordance with the terms of the agreement between the County and the vendor. Services available to
employees and eligible family members include but are not included to the following:
• Marital and family problems
• Alcohol Abuse
• Financial and credit concerns
• Child care
• Pre -retirement planning
• Legal issues and questions
7. APPEAL & GRIEVANCE PROCESSES
7.1 Appeal of Disciplinary Action
• Relationship issues
• Drug dependency
• Emotional problems and stress
• Elder care
• Federal taxpayer problems
• Interpersonal conflicts
Step (1). Should the appointing authority impose disciplinary action in the form of suspension, demotion,
reduction in pay, or dismissal upon employee, employee may appeal said action to the Chief Administrative Officer
or designee, or in the case of the Chief Administrator's Office, to the Director -Human Resources. The appeal must
be submitted within fifteen (15) days of the occurrence and shall be submitted formally in writing stating the
nature of the appeal and the suggested solution. Within ten (10) working days after receiving the written appeal,
the Chief Administrative Officer (or Director -Human Resources) shall set a meeting with the employee. Within
fifteen (15) working days thereafter a written decision shall be delivered to the employee and the appointing
authority.
Step (2). If the appeal is not settled under Step 1 option above, it maybe formally submitted to an appeal hearing
conducted by a mediator from State Mediation and Conciliation Services. The hearing date will be established by
mutual agreement within ten (10) working days of the written decision from Step 1 above. The State Mediator
shall hear the appeal and following the hearing render a decision as to whether the appeal is granted, denied, or
modified to provide for a lesser level of discipline.
The State Mediator shall not have the power to amend or modify provisions of this resolution, or a law, ordinance,
resolution, regulation or rule which is within the authority of the Board of Supervisors or other legislative body or
to establish any new terms or conditions of employment. The State Mediator's decision shall be limited only to
the applications and interpretation of the matter referred for consideration.
7.2 Resolution of Conflict Not Related to„Disciplinary Action - Grievance
It is the intent of this procedure to afford the parties the opportunity to resolve workplace problems at the lowest
possible level, and to thereby further the principles of developing harmonious employer/employee relations.
An employee who presents a grievance shall not suffer reprisal or other punitive action by the County because of
the exercise of the right to present a grievance. The employee shall be given reasonable time off without loss of
pay or benefits to present the grievance to County management pursuant to this procedure.
7.2.1 Definition and Scope of a Grievance
a. A grievance may be filed by the employee on a management interpretation or application of
this resolution or the Personnel Rules.
b. Specifically excluded from the grievance procedure are subjects involving the amendment of
state or federal law; Board of Supervisor's resolution, ordinance or minute order;
performance evaluations; denial of merit increases; discriminatory acts; or other matters
which have other means of appeal.
7.2.2 Grievance Procedure Steps
The grievance procedure shall consist of the following steps, each of which must be completed
prior to any request for further consideration of the matter.
Ste 1
Informal Meeting. Prior to filing the formal grievance pursuant to Step 2 below, the employee is
required, within fifteen (15) calendar days of the occurrence or the employee's knowledge of the
occurrence which gives rise to the grievance, to informally discuss the matter with the appointing
authority to determine if the issue may be resolved.
Ste 2
Formal Written Grievance. if the grievance cannot be resolved at Step 1 above, employee must
submit a formal, written grievance on the prescribed form, clearly stating the alleged
misinterpretation or application of this resolution or the Personnel Rules including the resolution
being sought. As an alternative to proceeding directly to Step 3 below, the grievance may be
submitted to mediation conducted by State Mediation & Conciliation Services. This option must
be presented in writing to the Director -Human Resources within ten (10) calendar days from the
date a decision was rendered at the informal decision. As soon as practicable thereafter, or as
otherwise agreed to by the parties, a mediator shall hear the grievance. A request for mediation
will automatically suspend the normal processing of a grievance until the mediation process is
completed. The mediation process shall be optional, and any opinion expressed by the mediator
shall be informal and shall be considered advisory.
Ste 3
If the issue isnot settled bythe informal discussion orbymediation asoutlined above, it may be
formally submitted tothe Chief Administrative Officer nrdesignee, orimthecasemfagrievanog
by an employee of the Chief Administrative Officer's, to the Director -Human Resources. The
grievance obaU be submitted nv|th|m thirty (30) calendar days of the written response to the
informal meeting or conclusion of mediation, and shall be submitted formally in writing stating
the mature of the grievance and the suggested solution. Within ten /lO\ calendar days after
receiving the written grievance, the Chief Administrative Officer (or Human Resources Director,
whichever is appropriate) shall set a meeting with the employee. Within tem (10) calendar days
thereafter written decision shall be delivered to the employee. The decision of the Chief
Administrative Officer (or Director -Human Resources whichever is appropriate) shall be final.
PASSED AND ADOPTED by the Butte County Board of Supervisors this 2 oth day of September 2022, by the
following vote:
AYES: Supervisors Ritter, Kimrnebhme Teeter and Chair Connelly
NOES: None
ABSENT: Supervisor LuCeno
ABSTAIN: Nome
Bill Connelly, Chair
Butte County Board of Supervisors
Andy Pickett, Chief Administrative Officer
and Clerk of the Board