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Department notes retirement, recruitment challenges and capital projects in progress
Summary
Department staff announced the upcoming retirement of a long-serving employee, described recruitment challenges across crews, and listed capital projects and contract renewals expected in the spring.
Staff told the board on Feb. 17 that long‑time department employee Mona will retire effective March 3 and that the department has posted her position and extended an offer to a candidate. Staff said Mona will provide transition support and that they expect training overlap before her departure.
Melissa Lipska and other staff discussed recruitment and retention challenges across forestry, grounds and buildings crews, noting several current vacancies and that some applicants lack required qualifications. Staff said the department is using contract services for tasks such as median mowing to help maintain service levels while recruitment continues.
Project updates included the Rotary Building windows and doors project (bid award coming to council and the project is under budget), completed Barstow railing replacements, a shingle replacement for the Schutze Recreation Center, upcoming contract renewals for median mowing and a new parade memorial landscape maintenance contract likely to come before the board in March, and a planned Arbor Day proclamation. Staff also described plans for technology and room upgrades such as keyless entry at Buckner Shelter and new display/Teams capability at the Catherine meeting room.
Board members thanked Mona for her service and discussed transition planning. Staff said they are pursuing competitive hiring and will continue to report progress to the board.
