Staff report: continued hiring challenges across public works, dispatch and inspections

City staff reported persistent difficulty filling multiple operational positions, including CDL-equipped public works roles, dispatchers and a chief electrical inspector. The staff update said three new hires had started since the last meeting (a light equipment operator, an assistant mechanic and a sewer and water technician) and another sewer and water technician is due to start the following Monday. The city still has open positions for a light equipment operator, an additional sewer and water technician and four dispatcher vacancies; one dispatcher resigned the same day and another candidate is leaving to begin police academy training. Staff said four dispatcher candidates were selected for background checks but noted competition: some candidates were already in background checks for other jurisdictions and may not accept Franklin's offer. The city also made an offer for a planner earlier the same day and expected to know by the end of the week whether the candidate would accept. Staff said the chief electrical inspector position is also proving difficult to fill after a 25-year employee retired. Committee members congratulated internal promotions and noted staffing continuity concerns related to retirements and pending departures. No formal action was required; the update was informational.