Moreno Valley approves $332,200 contract for citywide classification and pay study
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Summary
The council approved a one‑year, $332,200 contract with Gallagher to perform a citywide classification and compensation study, a measure councilmembers and union representatives requested to update job descriptions, salary ranges and internal equity. The vote was 4–1.
Moreno Valley’s City Council on Nov. 4 approved a one‑year, $332,200 professional services agreement with Gallagher Benefits Services to conduct a citywide classification and compensation study.
Natalie Potter, the city’s human resources manager, told the council the study will review roughly 172 job classifications, collect PDQs (position description questionnaires), survey market salary ranges, and recommend classification and compensation adjustments to help recruitment and retention. Potter said the work starts Dec. 1 and continues into late 2026 and that the funding is included in the adopted 2025–26 operating budget.
Council members asked for details about scope, prior contractor performance and whether an external study was required by current labor agreements. Potter said the request followed labor‑unit negotiations that sought an independent review and that the RFP process produced three finalists; Gallagher (also known as Kaufman Associates) was the recommended vendor.
Councilmember (by seat) concerns focused on cost and oversight. One council member questioned why the city should pay an outside firm roughly $332,000 when public salary data are publicly available and asked whether the city could do the work internally for less. Potter and City Manager Brian Millhand said the outside study is intended to provide independent validation and would be used to inform upcoming contract negotiations with labor units.
Mayor John Cabrera moved to approve the agreement; the motion was seconded and, after deliberation, passed 4–1. Mayor Pro Tem Baca Santa Cruz cast the lone no vote.
The contract includes a requirement for staff oversight, and Potter said city staff will administer PDQs and work with Gallagher to ensure the consultant follows the scope of work. Council requested that staff provide regular contract administration updates and return with results that will inform the next round of labor negotiations.
The council’s action was limited to approving the agreement and purchase order; any substantial amendments or additional funding would be subject to further council approval.