Council approves exception to rehiring waiting period for recently retired management analyst to provide transition and training

The City Council on Oct. 21 approved a request to waive the 180‑day CalPERS waiting period and rehire retired employee Kathy Bunce as a temporary management analyst in Community Development, citing the need for coverage and onboarding while a recruitment is completed.

Background: Human Resources staff explained the retirement rehiring rules and said CalPERS generally requires a 180‑day waiting period before a retiree can be rehired by the same agency; exceptions may be granted by council. Mark Mercado, acting director of human resources, said Bunce recently retired and the department had an active recruitment for a replacement: "There are 170 plus applicants for 10 positions citywide," Mercado said. Staff recommended an exception to bridge the gap and allow Bunce to onboard and train her replacement.

Council discussion: Members asked why the exception was sought rather than promoting an internal candidate; staff said the classification is citywide and the recruitment pool includes internal candidates, but the retiree offered to remain for a limited duration to provide continuity on federal grants and unit‑specific knowledge. Councilmember Park raised questions about succession planning and promotion opportunities; the city manager noted such exceptions are infrequent and that duties include grant administration that require familiarity.

Vote: The council approved the exception 6–1 with one abstention/recusal recorded for a council member who had a conflict. Staff said Bunce’s rehiring would be limited and temporary and that the recruitment would continue.

Ending: Council accepted the staff recommendation and authorized the exception; staff will complete the recruitment and ensure the temporary appointment remains time‑limited.