Council approves step increase for utility employee; acknowledges finance director and KMU resignations

Council considered a personnel recommendation from the utility commission to move KMU employee Josh Johnson from grade 10 to grade 12. Discussion focused on whether Johnson had completed required apprenticeship steps and licensing (CDL and a Class D water operator certificate were cited), whether the promotion should advance him two grade levels or one, and how the new pay aligns with the city’s recently adopted pay‑grade chart and fairness across existing employees.

Utility supervisor Randy and the utility commission recommended the move; administrators summarized Johnson’s progress and the commission’s rationale. Council debated the proper procedural route (personnel committee vs. commission recommendation) and the roll‑forward effects on step progression at year‑end. Council ultimately voted to move Josh Johnson to Grade 12, Level 2, retroactive to April 15, with back pay to be processed under payroll guidance.

Separately, council discussed personnel matters in the finance and utility departments. The city received a resignation from Finance Director Whitney (effective date provided in her letter) and Whitney subsequently submitted a rescission attempt; council and the personnel committee acknowledged the submission and elected to continue personnel committee work on the matter. Administrator Scott Laner also reported that KMU superintendent Wayne submitted a resignation with a 30‑day notice as required, and the council acknowledged receipt.

Next steps: payroll will work with the administrator to process retroactive pay in a manner that balances tax implications; personnel committee and administration will coordinate next steps on the finance director matter and KMU staffing and recruitment.