Arcata receives annual report on staffing: 136 full-time positions, 23 vacancies in 2025; turnover 16%

Arcata City officials received the required annual report on staff vacancies and recruitment on April 1, presented by Human Resources Administrative Services Director Kira.

Kira told the council the city has 136 authorized full‑time positions. "Over the course of 2025, we had a total of 23 vacancies. We filled 20 of those positions," she said, and added the annual staff turnover rate was 16% with a monthly average vacancy rate of 4.7%. She explained vacancy causes (seven retirements, three involuntary separations, 10 voluntary separations and three new positions added in 2025) and described recruitment types (open, promotional and executive), testing and background processes that can take weeks to months.

Council members asked clarifying questions about whether part-time positions were included (Kira said they are not; part-timers total roughly 20–50 seasonally), CalPERS retirement participation (Kira said employees cannot opt out), and the juvenile diversion officer vacancy (staff said one position was planned to be filled going forward and salary is roughly in the $60,000–$80,000 range). Public commenter Joan McGary asked about pension liabilities and a historic deficit; staff said transfers to cover pension costs related to fund-specific employees were lawful and explained reporting would follow.

Kira outlined hiring best practices including hiring incentives, overhires for continuity, and competitive salary and benefits. No council action was required; the report fulfilled the legal presentation requirement under Government Code section 3502.3.