Councilors discussed a proposal to authorize the mayor to offer starting salaries above the mid point of Schedule A ranges (up to the maximum) in limited circumstances to avoid losing candidates during long hiring cycles.

Human Resources told the committee that delays (multiple meetings and referrals) can cost the city competitive candidates who will accept outside offers while the council process runs. Councilors largely agreed on the need for a transparent mechanism that shortens hiring timelines but insisted on notice to the council. The committee asked the law department to produce draft language allowing the mayor to make such offers within budget limits and to require an official communication to the city clerk (to be placed on the next city council agenda) explaining why the exception was used.

Separately, the committee took up a long-requested study of Schedule A salary ranges (a 2014 salary-study follow-up). Because committee member Councilor Linda Bacon was not present for part of the discussion, members agreed to table the Schedule A study item to allow further briefing and to bring it back with HR-proposed adjustments and comparative data from neighboring municipalities.

What the committee asked for
The committee requested: (1) draft ordinance language from the law department that would allow limited flexibility for hiring above the mid-range for Schedule A positions (within approved budget constraints); (2) a requirement that any use of that flexibility be communicated to the city clerk for posting to the council agenda; and (3) a fresh review of Schedule A ranges, with HR providing comparative pay data and recommended adjustments.

Ending
Members stressed balance: retain transparency and oversight while preserving the city’s ability to make timely offers.