Pacific Grove city report finds 8% annual vacancy rate in 2024; HR proposes social‑media recruiting and referral program

Human Resources briefed the Pacific Grove City Council on Aug. 20 as part of the state’s AB 2561 requirement to present vacancy, recruitment and retention status. The department reported an overall annual vacancy rate of 8% for 2024 and outlined steps to improve hiring and retention.

HR staff said the city recorded 22 separations in 2024 (5 retirements, 15 resignations and 2 involuntary separations) and that eight vacancies were filled through internal promotions. Average time to hire for regular staff was about 66 days; sworn police officers took longer to fill because of extended background checks (average 122 days).

HR proposed several remedies: expand outreach using social‑media platforms (including TikTok and YouTube), develop dynamic recruitment web pages with videos about Pacific Grove as a workplace, and create an employee referral program. Staff also proposed clearer applicant communication and more timely updates to reduce dropouts during the multi‑step public‑sector hiring process.

Council members and callers raised housing costs, compensation and recruitment culture as barriers. HR said housing affordability is a major constraint — about 60% of employees commute into Pacific Grove — and that the city uses internal promotions and flexible schedules to retain staff.

The council received the AB 2561 report for statutory purposes; staff will return with more detailed recommendations on branding, recruitment pages and the proposed referral program.