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Richfield council approves first reading to create Human Resources department and director post
Summary
The council approved on first reading an ordinance to convert HR functions into a standalone department led by a human resources director (grade 19); staff said the change aims to reduce turnover and may yield consultant savings, and the ordinance will return for final action.
On Jan. 13 the Richfield City Council approved the first reading of an ordinance to change the human resources division into a stand-alone Human Resources Department and establish a human resources director position reporting to the city manager.
Council member Coleman Woods introduced the ordinance and staff said the change responds to continuing turnover and greater complexity in HR work (for example, implementation of Minnesota paid leave). City Manager Rodriguez and staff explained the recommended grade (grade 19) would be lower than other department heads and that the new structure would include one additional direct report (an equity coordinator moving into HR), making the department four positions rather than three in current structure.
Staff said consultant costs included in the 2026 budget could be reduced once the department is established and the manager role eliminated; the net budget impact depends on the salary hired. Council members said the move is necessary to retain experienced HR professionals in a tight labor market. The first reading passed by roll-call vote; the ordinance will return for second reading.
