Placement: New Business
Action Requested: Motion / Vote
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City Attorney’s Annual Review
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Submitted By: Natalie E. Cabrera, Director, Human Resources
Strategic Plan Link: The City's Goal of a high-performing city government organization.
Executive Summary (General Business): Mr. Stokes commenced his tenure as City Attorney for the City of Port St. Lucie on February 22, 2018 and, per his employment agreement, he is to receive an annual performance evaluation. In accordance with the performance evaluation process, the Council may provide Mr. Stokes with a written performance evaluation; however, a written performance evaluation is not required.
Presentation Information: Staff is available to answer any questions the Council may have.
Staff Recommendation: Move that the Council review and discuss the City Attorney’s performance and compensation, consider an increase in pay, and provide direction on any additional perquisites.
Alternate Recommendations:
1. Move that the Council amend the recommendation and modify the compensation package for the City Attorney.
2. Move that the Council provide staff direction.
Background: While the City Attorney’s current employment agreement calls for an annual evaluation, the employment agreement is silent with respect to pay increases. As such, the City Council may wish to establish a rate increase to be effective on the anniversary date. During the City Attorney’s 2021 annual review, the Council adjusted the future annual review date for the City Attorney to be May 1st.
Included herewith, please find the recent salary study conducted with respect to city attorneys in comparable jurisdictions. Please note, the City Attorney position is not included on the City’s pay plan as it is an appointed position. Accordingly, there is no minimum or maximum rate established for this position.
Issues/Analysis: N/A
Financial Information: The City Attorney’s current salary is $212,181.06. In addition, Mr. Stokes receives a car allowance of $563.93 per month. During the 2021 annual review, the City Attorney was provided a 3% salary increase, retroactive to October 1, 2020. However, it was the consensus of the City Council to conduct the City Attorney’s annual review as of May 1st on a prospective basis.
Special Consideration: Mr. Stokes has four (4) years of service with the City of Port St. Lucie.
Location of Project: N/A
Attachments: 1. City Attorney Employment Agreement; 2. City Attorney’s Self-Assessment; 3. 2022 City Attorney Salary Study.
NOTE: All of the listed items in the “Attachment” section above are in the custody of the City Clerk. Any item(s) not provided in City Council packets are available upon request from the City Clerk.
Internal Reference Number: N/A
Legal Sufficiency Review:
N/A