Clayton Council reclassifies maintenance post, uses $400,000 reserve for one-year landscaping contract

The Clayton City Council on Oct. 3 adopted Resolution 51-2023 to reclassify the city’s Maintenance Supervisor to Maintenance Superintendent and approved a plan to fund a one-year landscaping contract with $400,000 from the Pandemic Relief Reserve.

City Manager Bret Prebula and consultant Ron Bernal told the council the city faces an estimated service‑hour maintenance deficit of about 5,500 hours and aging infrastructure. Executive Assistant to the City Manager and HR Manager Amy Walcker said the reclassification recognizes a higher-level administrative role and would make the position exempt (salaried). Staff recommended issuing a request for proposals for landscaping work so current operations can focus on tasks that require in‑house crews.

Public commenters generally supported the plan. Resident Keith Haydon urged addressing deferred landscape and irrigation maintenance and backed the use of one-time funds for a contract. Mr. Rogers sought clarification that the proposed contract would cover trimming and irrigation from the valve up, not main‑line repairs. Other commenters suggested alternative approaches, including abandoning areas that are no longer feasible to maintain.

Councilmembers Cloven and Tillman said they supported the reclassification, though Tillman cautioned about relying on reserves for ongoing operational costs. Councilmember Tillman moved the resolution; Councilmember Cloven seconded. The motion passed on a 5–0 vote.

Council directed staff to issue an RFP for a one‑year landscaping agreement and for the City Manager to return with a five‑year financial forecast and periodic updates on progress addressing deferred maintenance. Staff noted the recommended approach is a one‑year trial and that funding beyond year one is not currently identified.