HomeMy WebLinkAboutR-1998-152 Agreement / Lane Powell Spears Lubersky / Civil Service Commission / Human Resources•
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RESOLUTION NO. R-98-152
A RESOLUTION authorizing and directing the City Manager and City Clerk of the City of
Yakima to execute a legal services agreement between the City of Yakima
and the law offices of Lane Powell Spears Lubersky LLP in order to
provide legal services to the various City Civil Service Commissions.
WHEREAS, the City Charter Civil Service Commission, the Fire Civil Service
Commission, and the City Police Civil Service Commission ("Commissions") require
professional attorney services to provide independent legal advice; and
WHEREAS, and in particular, the Police Civil Service Commission requires a legal
opinion regarding the legality of the Police Civil Service Rules and Regulations ("Proposed
Rules") proposed by the Yakima Police Patrolmans Association ("YPPA") and the City Police
Department; and
WHEREAS, and regarding the Proposed Rules, the YPPA has objected to the City Legal
Department providing a legal opinion to the Police Civil Service Commission on the basis that
the Legal Department has previously advised the Police Department on civil service matters
and has either a potential or actual conflict of interest; and
WHEREAS, on other occasions the City Legal Department has not been able to provide
independent legal advice to the Commissions because of ethical and legal restrictions; and
WHEREAS, Lane Powell Spears Lubersky LLP has the experience and expertise
necessary to provide independent legal advice to the Commissions and is willing to do so in
accordance with the terms and conditions of the attached agreement; and
WHEREAS, the City Council has determined that it is in the best interest of the City to
contract with Lane Powell Spears Lubersky LLP in accordance with the terms of the attached
agreement in order to provide legal services to the Commissions, now, therefore,
BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF YAKIMA:
The City Manager and City Clerk are hereby authorized and directed to execute the
attached and incorporated Legal Services Contract with Lane Powell Spears Lubersky LLP for
the purpose of providing legal services to the City Charter Civil Service Commission, the Fire
Civil Service Commission, and the City Police Civil Service Commission.
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ADOPTED BY THE CTTY COUNCIL this 17th day of November, 1998.
ATTEST: ,Q
City Clerk
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llli/ / -
Maryi,race, Mayor Pro- Tem
LEGAL SERVICES CONTRACT
THIS LEGAL SERVICES AGREEMENT, hereinafter "Agreement", is entered into by
and between the City of Yakima, a municipal corporation, hereinafter the "City", and Lane
Powell Spears Lubersky LLP, hereinafter the "Firm".
WHEREAS, the City Charter Civil Service Commission, the Fire Civil Service
Commission, and the City Police Civil Service Commission ("Commissions") require
professional attorney services to provide independent legal advice; and
WHEREAS, and in particular, the Police Civil Service Commission requires a legal
opinion regarding the legality of the Police Civil Service Rules and Regulations ("Proposed
Rules") proposed by the Yakima Police Patrolmans Association ("YPPA") and the City Police
Department; and
WHEREAS, and regarding the Proposed Rules, the YPPA has objected to the City Legal
Department providing a legal opinion to the Police Civil Service Commission on the basis that
the Legal Department has previously advised the Police Department on civil service matters
and has either a potential or actual conflict of interest; and
WHEREAS, on other occasions the City Legal Department has not been able to provide
independent legal advice to the Commissions because of ethical and legal restrictions; and
WHEREAS, Lane Powell Spears Lubersky LLP has the experience and expertise
necessary to provide independent legal advice to the Commissions and is willing to do so in
accordance with the terms and conditions contained herein.
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual covenants, promises, conditions
and agreements set forth herein, it is agreed by and between the City and the Firm as follows:
1. Legal Services.
The Firm agrees to provide an independent legal opinion to the Commission regarding
the legality of Police Civil Service Rules and Regulations ("Proposed Rules") proposed by the
Yakima Police Patrolmans Association and the Police Department for approval by the
Commission at its June 1, 1998 regular business meeting. A copy of the Proposed Rules is
attached hereto as Exhibit "A".
2. Consideration.
The City agrees to compensate the Firm a flat fee of no more than Eight Hundred and
Fifty Dollars ($850.00) for the preparation and issuance of an independent legal opinion
regarding the legality of said Proposed Rules.
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3. Additional Legal Services.
The Firm agrees to provide additional independent legal advice and services to any of
the Commissions when so requested. The City will compensate the Firm for such additional
services in accordance with the attached "Engagement of Services" Letter, dated October 27,
1998, and attached hereto as Exhibit "B" and incorporated herein by this reference. Request for
additional legal services is subject to the limitations of budget authority as established by the
Yakima City Council.
4. Term of Agreement.
The term of this Agreement shall be effective upon execution and shall continue
indefinitely with the understanding that it is to be reviewed and, if appropriate, modified each
calendar year; provided, however, that either the City or the Firm may terminate this
Agreement, with or without cause, by giving ten (10) days written notice of termination.
5. Severability.
If any portion of this Agreement is changed per mutual agreement or any portion is
held invalid, the remainder of the Agreement shall remain in full force and effect.
6. Integration.
This written document constitutes the entire agreement between the City and the Firm.
No changes or additions to this Agreement shall be valid or binding upon either party unless
such change or addition be in writing and executed by both parties.
7. Notices.
Unless stated otherwise herein, all notices and demands shall be in writing and sent or
hand delivered to the parties to their addresses as follows:
TO CITY:
Chief Examiner
Civil Service Commission
City Hall
129 North 2nd Street
Yakima, WA 98901
TO FIRM: Craig W. Hanson, Esq.
Lane Powell Spears Lubersky LLP
2120 Caton Way SW, Suite B
Olympia, WA 98502
or to such other addresses as the parties may hereafter designate in writing. Notices and/or
demands shall be sent by registered or certified mail, postage prepaid, or hand delivered. Such
notices shall be deemed effective when mailed or hand delivered at the addresses specified
above.
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8. Governing Law.
This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the
State of Washington.
9. Venue.
The venue for any action to enforce or interpret this Agreement shall lie in the Superior
Court of Washington for Yakima County, Washington.
CITY OF YAKIMA
By: =h,5
Date:
Dick Zais, City Manager
/ 7— / C7
ATTEST:
LANE POWELL SPEARS LUBERSKY LLP
By:
Craig W. Hanson, Partner
Date:
City Clerk
City Contract No. 98-123
8
Resolution o. R-98-152
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BUSINESS OF THE CITY COUNCIL
YAKIMA, WASHINGTON
AGENDA STATEMENT
Item No. 1 1
For Meeting Of November 17, 1998
ITEM TITLE: Resolution authorizing the City Manager to execute a Legal Services Contract with Lane
Powell Spears Lubersky LLP
SUBMITTED BY:
Tim Carlson, Charter Civil Service Commission Chairman
Jesse Cox, Civil Service Commissioner
Beverly Warren, Civil Service Commissioner
William Wright, Police Civil Service Commissioner
CONTACT PERSON/TELEPHONE: Carol Bates/576-6619
SUMMARY EXPLANATION: A new set of Police Civil Service Rules and Regulations ("Proposed Rules")
was submitted by the Yakima Police Patrolmans Association ("YPPA") and the Police Department for
approval by the Police Civil Service Commission at its June 1, 1998 meeting. The Commission directed Paul
McMurray, Assistant City Attorney, to review and advise the Commission concerning the legality of the
Proposed Rules. On July 22, 1998, James Cline, legal counsel for the YPPA, objected to Mr. McMurray
reviewing the Proposed Rules on the grounds that he had either an actual or potential conflict of interest
because he had previously represented and advised the Police Department on various matters involving the
Police Civil Service Commission. A copy of Mr. Cline's letter is attached hereto for your reference. In order
to avoid any conflict of interest, the Commission now desires to have outside legal counsel review the
Proposed Rules. The attached resolution and contract would allow the Commission to obtain an advisory
legal opinion from the law firm of Lane Powell Spears Lubersky LLP and provide for future legal services,
if needed, within the limitations of budget authority as established by the City Council.
Resolution X Ordinance Contract X Other(Specify)
Funding Source
APPROVED FOR SUBMITTAL:' ` T
City Manager
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION: Adopt resolution authorizing execution of legal services
contract.
COUNCIL ACTION:
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C E CLINE &' EMMAL
ATTORNEYS AT LAW
July 22, 1998
Mr. Bill Wright
Yakima Police Civil Service Commission
129 North 2nd Street
Yakima, WA 98901
Re: Civil Service Procedures
RECE;`
. CITY OFy,
'JUL 2 3
OFFICE OF CITY
KItAmes i4. Cline
Patrick 4. Emmal
1998Alex J. 4kalbania
Sydney J. Vinnedge
MANAGER
Dear Mr. Wright:
I am writing this letter on behalf of the Yakima Police Patrolman's Association. I am
writing to raise with you concerns the YPPA has relating to certain procedures followed by the
Police Civil Service Commission.
The first concerns Commissions' utilization of counsel. Without expressing or implying
any criticism or concern of Paul McMurray's professionalism, we must express our objection
that the Commission is not utilizing an independent counsel as is authorized by the statute but
rather is using the counsel employed by the City of Yakima. First, in some given cases there is
likely to be a conflict of interest and second, even if in many cases there is no actual conflict of
interest we are concerned that reliance on the city's attorneys creates the appearance of
unfairness which could raise doubts in the minds of both our members and the public concerning
the Commissions' independence. We are concerned, and would suggest you should be as well,
that the lack of independent counsel creates the appearance that the Civil Service Commission is
not independent but is a mere instrument of the city of Yakima. Our members favor an
independent Civil Service Commission and towards that end we would encourage the selection
of independent counsel in all legal matters.
Even if on certain cases it might be argued that there is no conflict between the city of
Yakima and the Civil Service Commission so that it might be proper for Paul McMurray to
provide the Civil Service Commission advice, it is clear that in certain other cases, such as a
disciplinary appeal, there is an insurmountable conflict of interest. It is not comforting for our
members to know that the attorney appearing on behalf of the city urging the Civil Service
Commission to uphold discipline has been in other context providing the Commissionlegal
advice. Again, this raises in our minds a question of the appearance of fairness.
A second concern we wish to raise with you relates to the making of motions by non-
members of the Police Civil Service Commission during meetings of the Police Civil Service
Commission. Even if the Police Civil Service Commission chooses to meet jointly with other
Civil Service Commissions, it is highly irregular to allow non-members of the Police Civil
6800 East Green Lake Way North, Suite 250 • Seattle, Washington 98115
(206) 524-3431 • Fax (206) 524-3572 • E-mail clinemmal@clinemmal.com
® 907-,1
July 22, 1998
Page 2
Service Commission make such motions and ruling view it establishes
st bli nes the potential for a
challenge to the validity of any such decision org Y
among our mPmhers
On certain civil service issues, we may face differing opinions even
as to the appropriateness or desirability ofe in given
e ouxir nanner dWhat
thatthe
when they arefavors
made be
whole, however, is that decisions be mad
subject to be some degree of finality rather thvan e further
rt�ee rounds �s��lµ*igatio.�ne over ytand the Police
used to make such decisions. In this respect
Civil Service Commission all have shared mutual interests.
We hope these concerns will be received in the constructive manner in which they are
offered. Thank
JMC/cdb
yn,u for your attention to these matters.
cc: Paul McMurray
Richard Zais
Chief Don Blesio
Randy Ruegsegger
Very truly yours,
C& Emmal
,11 r
aines M. Cline
c
DRAFT
IF31T q
GENERAL RULES
AND
REGULATIONS
OF THE
CIVIL SERVICE COMMISSION
FOR POLICE EMPLOYEES
OF THE
CITY OF YAKIMA
CSR -P
April 7. 1998
Adopted , 1998
(Superseding Former Rules and Regulations)
CIVIL SERVICE COMMISSIONERS
FOR POLICE AND FIRE
William R. Wright
Chairman
Jesse Cox
Beverly Warren
Carol Bates
Chief Examiner
POLICE AND FIRE
CIVIL SERVICE COMMISSION
TABLE OF CONTENTS
POLICE GENERAL RULES
Pave
Definitions
Rule I General Powers and Duties
Rule II Meetings and Quorum
Rule III Amendment
Rule IV Suspension or Modification of Rules
Rule V Prohibition Against Discrimination
Rule VI Secretary/Chief Examiner
Rule VII Classification
Rule VIII General Qualifications
Rule IX Applications for Examination
Rule X Qualifications for Police Officer
Rule X
Rule XI
Rule XII
Rule XIII
Nature of Entry Level Examinations
Conduct of Entry -Level Examinations
Medical and Physical Examination
Examinations for Promotion
Rule XIV
Rule XV
Appointments on Basis of Merit, Etc.
Register of Eligibles, Reinstatement Register,
Requisitions and Appointments, and
Re-employment Register
Rule XVI Probationary Period, Employment, Promotion -
Inspection of Examination Records
Rule XVII Performance Evaluation
Rule XVIII. Disciplinary Actions
Rule XIX Leaves of Absence
Rule XX Layoffs, Voluntary Reductions in Rank and
Military Leaves
Rule XXI Reports To Be Made
Rule XXII Outside Employment
Rule XXIII Severability
GENERAL RULES AND REGULATIONS
OF THE YAKIMA CIVIL SERVICE COMMISSION
FOR POLICE EMPLOYEES
ADOPTED , 1998
(Superseding All. Former Rules and Regulations)
Pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 31 of the 1935 Session Laws of
Washington, as subsequently amended and as hereafter amended, (Sec. 41.08.010
to Sec. 41.08.910 RCW, both inclusive) and to the provisions of Chapter 13 of
the 1937 Session Laws of Washington, as subsequently amended and as hereafter
amended, (Sec. 41.12.010 to Sec. 41.12.910 RCW, both inclusive), and to the
provisions of Chapter 269, Sec. 1 of the 1969 Session Laws of Washington,
First Extraordinary Session as subsequently amended and as hereafter amended,
(Sec. 41.04.005 RCW) and to the provisions of Chapter 170 of the 1974 Session
Laws of Washington, Third Extraordinary Session, as subsequently amended and
as hereafter amended (Sec. 41.04.010 RCW), the Civil Service Commission of the
City of Yakima, a city of the first class, hereby adopts the following rules
and regulations:
WHEREAS, the Yakima Civil Service Commission for the Yakima Fire
Department and for the Yakima Police Department, has the came perconncl:
therefore, in order to save expense, and to provide a uniform policy for Civil
Service; IT IS ORDERED:
That whenever said Commission shall handle matters relating to the Yakima
Police Department it shall be deemed sitting as a Commission under the
provisions of the Police Civil Service Act of said State, as now or hereafter
amended or supplemented.
It shall not be necessary for the minutes of the Commission to set forth
in what capacity it is acting, where it otherwise appears that it is handling
matters of a particular department and these rules and regulations except
where related to a particular department, shall apply to the Police Department
of the City of Yakima.
CSR -P 1
4/7/98
POLICE CIVIL SERVICE DEFINITIONS
1. APPOINTING AUTHORITY -- The City Manager or designee, as provided for
in City Charter, Article II, Section 9, Subsection 2, and Section 11.
2. CAUSE -- Any action or inaction which the Civil Service Commission deems
appropriate justification for a disciplinary action, including
termination, suspension or discharge.
3. CERTIFICATION -- The process by which the Examiner provides the
appointing authority, upon requisition, the name(s) of the individual(s)
ranked highest on the eligible list.
4. CLASSIFICATION -- A group of permanent jobs sufficiently similar in
duties, responsibilities, authority and minimum qualifications to permit
combining them under a single title, and to permit the application of
common standards for selection and compensation. The terms rank or grade
may be used interchangeable with the term class or classification.
5. CLASSIFICATION SERIES -- A series of one or more classes similar in
work but differing in difficulty, responsibilities, entrance
qualifications and pay range.
6. DAYS -- All reference to days shall mean calendar days.
7. DEMOTION An appointment A disciplinary reduction to a lower
classification with a lower range of pay.
8. DEPARTMENT -- A11 commissioned personnel of the Police Department
other than Police Management.
9. ELIGIBLE -- The condition of being qualified for a classification or a
person who has become qualified for a classification by examination,
prior service, or other methods deemed appropriate by the Commission.
10. (REGULAR) EMPLOYEE -- An employee who has successfully completed the
probationary period for any classification governed by these Rules.
11. OPEN/COMPETITIVE EXAMINATION - An examination open to all candidates
who meet the specified requirements.
12. PREFERRED ELIGIBLE LIST - A separate Civil Service register composed
of former employees who have taken leaves of absence for more than 90
days.
13. PROMOTIONAL EXAMINATION: An examination to create a register
for a higher classification limited to employees in the Yakima
Police Department who have completed their probationary period and meet
the specified requirements.
14. PROMOTION - Appointment from a register to a classification with a
higher range of pay.
15. REDUCTION IN FORCE -- Layoffs necessitated by the need to reduce
staffing levels.
CSR -P 2
4/7/98
16. REDUCTION IN RANK -- The movement of an employee from one
classification to another classification having a lower
maximum rate of pay.
17. REINSTATEMENT REGISTER - A separate Civil Service register composed
of employees laid -off because of curtailment of funds, reduction in force
and for like causes.
18. RELATIVES Any fathcr, mother, brother, cictcr, wife, hucband,
father in law, mother in law,
brother in law, sicter
con in law, daughter -in law,
18. REPRIMAND - A formal written rebuke of an employee's conduct by
the appointing authority, chief of the department or his
designee. Documentation of an cmployce'c conduct by the appointing
authority which is written and placed in the official perconnel file,
19. SECRETARY -CHIEF EXAMINER -- Whenever the term "Examiner" appears, it
shall mean the Secretary -Chief Examiner or designee.
20. SERVICE -- Aggregate time in employment not including interruptions due
to removals, resignation, leaves of absence without pay or reductions in
force exceeding 90 days or suspensions without pay.
21. SUSPENSION -- A temporary removal from duty, with or without pay, of an
employee for a disciplinary purpose or for the purpose of investigating
accusations brought against an employee, including any loss of
accrued time.
RULE I. GENERAL POWERS AND DUTIES
Generally, the Civil Service Commission shall have all powers and perform
all the duties authorized by RCW Title 41, its amendments, and applicable
Washington State statutes.
RULE II. MEETINGS AND QUORUM
Sec. 1. The Commission shall hold regular monthly meetings o e
fourth Wednesday of each month at the hour of 3:00 p.m. unless there is no
pending business requiring Commission action. in which event The Examiner
shall give written notice of the meetings eairIC--e--1-1-a-t-21-4241 to all interested
parties. Regular meetings shall be held in the Council Chambers of Yakima
City Hall unless the notice of any particular meeting specifies some different
location for that meeting. The Commission may hold special meetings on the
call of the Chairman or any two members, as may be necessary or convenient to
conduct business of the Commission. Notices to all interested parties shall
be given as to the date and time of Commission meetings at least seven
days prior to the meeting unless notice is waived by all affected
parties.
Sec. 2. A majority of the Commission shall constitute a quorum.
CSR -P 3
4/7/98
RULE III. AMENDMENT
These rules and regulations may be amended from time -to -time
by the Civil Service Commission at any special meeting or at any
regular meeting of the Commission. The Commission shall not amend these
rules without prior notification of association representatives and the
department Police Chiefs. This shall not preclude the Commission from
amending these rules under emergency situations.
RULE IV. SUSPENSION OR MODIFICATION OF RULES
In cases of public emergency or whenever the public interest may require,
the Commission may, in its discretion, by majority vote, suspend or modify the
age, height/weight proportion, minimum medical and health standards, and
educational requirements set forth in these Rules.
RULE V. PROHIBITION AGAINST DISCRIMINATION
The right of any person to an appointment or promotion to any
classification in the classified service of the Police Department of the City
shall not be withheld because of sex, race, color, creed, national origin,
political affiliation, religious er belief, or disability handicap unless
based upon a bona fide occupational qualification, nor shall any person be
disciplined, dismissed, demoted, transferred or reduced in grade for such
reasons. No application or examination shall contain questions so framed as
to elicit such information.
RULE VI. SECRETARY/CHIEF EXAMINER
Sec. 1. The Civil Service Commission shall appoint a Chief Examiner
The Chief Examiner shall be subject to suspension, reduction, or discharge in
the same manner and subject to the same limitations as are provided in the
case of members of the Firc or Police Departments.
Sec. 2. The Examiner shall keep the records of the proceedings of the
Commission for the Police Department, shall have charge of and be responsible
for the safekeeping of the books, records, papers, and other property in the
office of the Commission; shall make certifications of those eligible for
appointment or employment; shall generally conduct the correspondence of the
Commission and perform such other appropriate duties as may be assigned.
Sec. 3. The Examiner shall, with thc approval of thc Comminnion,
prepare or obtain the examination questions and tests for the applicants for
the Police Department of the City; the Examiner or a designated representative
shall be personally present at all examinations and shall supervise
examinations, mark and grade all papers in a fair and impartial manner. All
questions used in any examination, promotional or otherwise, may be reviewed
approved by the Commission, and the Commission may add to, modify or withdraw
any questions.
Sec. 4. No person shall act as Examiner in any examination where any
applicant is a relative of the Examiner. If the Examiner is disqualified, or
fails to act as such Examiner for any reason, the Personnel Officer or
designee shall act as Examiner pro tem and have the powers to perform the
duties of the Examiner with relation to such examination.
CSR -P 4
4/7/98
Sec. 5. The Examiner shall not disclose the results of any examination
Except, without the consent of the person examined, or by order of the
Commission. Except the Examiner shall upon completion of the
examination, provide the Police Chief with a ranking of
individuals passing the examination.
RULE VII. CLASSIFICATION
Sec. 1. The Classified Civil Service covered hereby shall include all
employees listed in Section 2.
Sec. 2. In making examinations, certifying for appointments and
promotions, and otherwise carrying out the provisions of RCW Title 41, and
these Rules, respectively, the classifications shall be set forth in
accordance with the character of the various services to be performed, which
classifications, as established by ordinance, are as follows:
Police Chief
Captain
Lieutenant
Police Sergeant
Police Officer
RULE VIII. GENERAL QUALIFICATIONS
Sec. 1. An applicant for any classification under the Civil Service
must be able to be lawfully employed as a Police Officer in the United
States and the State of Washington, be able to read and write the English
language, possess a high school diploma or its equivalent, eax be able to
perform the duties of the classification applied for, and must be in good
health, be of good moral character, have a good credit rating, pocccce good
perconaiity, and possess good judgment and aptitude.
Sec. 2. Unless otherwise provided in these Rules, no person will be
admitted to examination for Police Officer who is less than 21 years of age.
Height and weight measurements must be proportionate. Each applicant must be
physically fit and may be required to pass an appropriate physical strength
and agility examination and must be capable of arduous duty.
Sec. 3. No person may be appointed, transferred, demoted or promoted to
the Police Department into a position which would create an obvious conflict
of interest with another person. An example of an obvious conflict of
interest would include the following:
A. Authority or practical power to for appointing, supervising or
disciplining the other person.
B. Be Responsiblcility for auditing the work of the other person.
Nothing in this section is intended to prevent appointment,
transfer, demotion, or promotion when such action may be
reasonably accommodated without compromising department
operations.
CSR -P 5
4/7/98
RULE IX. APPLICATIONS FOR EXAMINATION
Sec. 1. All applications for examination, other than promotional, shall
be made on the standard City of Yakima Application for Employment form or
Application for Promotional Form.
Sec. 2. Any willful false statement made by any person in connection
with the application for examination shall be good cause for exclusion from
the register of eligibles or for removal or discharge from employment.
Sec. 3. An incomplete application shall be returned with notice to
amend.
Sec. 4. Where it appears that the applicant is disqualified for
examination, the applicant must be so notified.
Sec. 5. All applications and accompanying certificates not returned
for correction shall remain on file with the Examiner.
Sec. 6. The burden shall be upon an applicant for any classification
under Civil Service to show possession of the required qualifications.
RULE X -I. NATURE OF ENTRY LEVEL EXAMINATIONS
Sec. 1. The Examiner, or designee, with the concurrence of the
Personnel Officer and Chief of the Department shall choose the examination for
a classification. Examinations shall be practical in nature and of such
character as to determine the capacity of the applicant to perform the duties
of the particular classification for which the applicant is competing. A
passing score of 75% is e = -- - - - -- required on
each test included in the examination which is given a numerical score.
An examination shall normally consist of a test or a combination of the
following tests:
A. A written test.
B. A performance test.
C. An oral test.
D. Physical ability test.
E. An evaluation of experience and training.
The Examiner may assign relative weights to each test.
Sec. 2. In the event the Examiner determines that the number of
applicants responding to an examination announcement is excessitre in relation
to the number of projected job openings, the Examiner may limit admission to
the remainder of the examination to those scoring highest on a preliminary
test or a combination of tests listed in Sec. 1 of this Rule. The number of
applicants allowed to complete the examination shall be at least twice the
number of anticipated vacancies for the subsequent year or 20% of those
applicants with passing scores on the preliminary test(s) whichever is
greater; but never less than six (6) or the entire body of applicants who pass
the preliminary test(s) whichever is less.
CSR -P 6
4/7/98
Sec. 3. Entrance examinations for the Commissioned Police Service shall
consist of an examination as provided in Sec. 1 and conducted by the Examiner
or designee. In addition, Veteran's Preference Credit and additional
Reserve Officer preference credits and work credit as established
in Sec. 6A shall be used to determine placement on the Civil Service
register.
In lieu of taking the written examination, a candidate may request the
Examiner to transfer a score the candidate achieved from another jurisdiction
in Washington, provided, the Examiner finds that such examination score
resulted from an identical examination as the one to be administered and such
examination was administered in a fair and impartial manner within one year of
the date set for the local administration of such examination by the Examiner.
Any candidates wishing to transfer a score shall sign a request for such
transfer which shall further acknowledge that the candidates gives up the
opportunity to take that examination for which the transferred score was
requested. The Examiner shall apply the transferred score as if it were
achieved through administration of the same test by the Examiner.
Sec. 4. Prior to employment, a candidate shall pass a qualifying
physical ability/performance test, background and character investigation,
polygraph examination, psychological examination and a medical and physical
examination under the direction of the Chief of Police or designee. Prior to
and as a condition of taking such physical ability/performance test, the
examinee shall execute a waiver of liability covering the administration of
such test in favor of the City of Yakima, its agents and employees. Names of
candidates who do not pass one or more of the background, polygraph,
psychological or medical and physical examinations shall be removed from the
register of eligibles. Such candidates may appeal to the Civil Service
Commission by providing written notice of appeal to the Examiner within 10
calendar days of receipt of written notice of removal.
Sec. 5. The provisions of RCW 41.04.010 Chapter 170 of the 1971
Session Laws of Washington, Third Extraordinary ges..,ion, regarding Employment
Preference of Veterans, are hereby made a part of these rules and by this
reference are incorporated herein. (Such chapter is codified as RCW
11.01.010). The term "veteran" as used herein shall be in accordance with RCW
41.04.005.
that when such a veteran_ was employed in public service at the time of entry
into military service and returns to the same employment, and shall be
ovidcd for on the first promotion
examination.
Sec. 6. Work Credit Points: For entry level Police Officer
positions, additional points may be added to a candidate's passing
test score as follows:
CSR -P
4/7/98
a. Two percent (2%) for each year of continuous
satisfactory service as a Reserve Officer on the Yakima
Police Department to a maximum of six percent (6%),
provided the candidate has successfully completed a
Washington State approved Reserve Academy, has passed
7
the State administered final examination, and has
attained the level of Commissioned Reserve Officer on
the Yakima Police Department. Candidates must be
currently serving, in good standing, and must have
performed a minimum of 288 hours of service in each year
for which additional points are claimed. The Chief of
Police shall be the final authority for determining
satisfactory service.
Sec. -G 7. The Examiner is authorized to destroy the examination papers
of applicants who are now deceased, have failed in the examination, or have
declined appointment, provided the papers have been on file for at least one
year. Employment registers, application forms and accompanying papers may be
destroyed as provided by Chapter 40.14 RCW.
Sec. 4 8. The Examiner is authorized to conduct examinations within
the established guidelines in concert with other municipalities for joint
testing upon agreement with the Police Chief. Once a candidate is hired by
another municipality, the name will be removed from the list. Candidates will
have the option of selecting the municipalities they are interested in working
for and will be considered for only those they select. A fee will be charged
to the municipalities receiving names.
RULE XI -I. CONDUCT OF ENTRY-LEVEL EXAMINATIONS
Sec. 1. Applicants must present themselves promptly at the hour and
place specified for the examination. No applicant shall be admitted to the
examination after the examination has commenced.
Sec. 2. Each aApplicants shall first be presented with an envelope
containing the declaration paper, bearing an examination number, on which
declaration paper the applicants shall write their name, replace it in the
envelope, seal the envelope, and mark thereon the examination number.
Thereafter, the applicant shall mark each paper with the examination number
only. This envelope shall not be opened until the examination papers shall
have been graded. "Provided, however, that the foregoing shall not be applied
in the event an examination, or any part thereof, must identify the examinee
by name for the purpose of scoring such examination or part thereof or for the
transfer of such score from another jurisdiction."
Sec. 3. The subject and time allowed for the examination will in each
case be announced before the examination begins.
Sec. 4. The examiner shall require every competitor to surrender all
examination documents upon completion of the examination or the expiration of
the time limit.
Sec. 5. The Examiner shall make all necessary explanations to the whole
class and shall not explain any questions to any individual competitor.
After an examination begins, no communication will be permitted among between
competitors.
Sec. 6. Examinations may be regulated in the matter of time by the
Chief Examiner, and insofar as practicable, shall be completed in one day.
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Sec. 7. The time allowed for examinations shall begin when all
announcements, instructions, and explanations have been given and the
declaration sheets are filled out.
Sec. 8. During any examination no competitor shall leave the room
without permission of the Examiner. If a competitors abandons their
examination, the Examiner shall note that fact upon the answer sheet and the
examination shall not be scored.
Sec. 9. Applicants shall supply themselves with all necessary
instruments as specified by the Chief Examiner.
Sec, 10. All grading shall be accomplished by the Examiner or under
her the Examiner's direction, and each examination paper shall be marked
with the resulting grade.
Sec. 11. Examination Results:
a. For entry-level Police Officer, the Examiner shall
notify competitors in writing of their final ccore and positions on the
register.
b. Competitors may, within 30 days after establishment of the
register, request consultation with the Examiner to review their own test
results.
Sec. 12. In case of ties:
a. If a tie occurs in a promotional exam, the applicant
having the higher score in the written portion of the exam shall
be counted as having the higher overall score. If both have
identical written scores, the applicant with the moat seniority
shall be counted as having the higher overall score.
b. If a tie occurs in an entry-level examination and the
examination consists of more than one type of testing, the candidate scoring
highest on the written portion of the examination shall be counted as having
the highest overall score. If a tie still exists, the tie will be broken by
drawing lots conducted in the presence of the Personnel Officer.
c. If a tie occurs in an entry-level examination with one
type of test, the tie will be broken by drawing lots conducted in
the presence of the Personnel Officer.
If a tic occurc with one type of tect, the tie will be broken by lot.
RULE XII -I. MEDICAL AND PHYSICAL EXAMINATION
Sec. 1. Each applicant for any position under Civil Service, the duties
of which involve law enforcement activities, may be required to pass a careful
medical, physical and psychological examination before appointment thereto,
provided that this requirement is stated in the promotional
examination announcement, and provided that all applicants are
examined in the same manner. The examining physician shall be guided by
the City of Seattle Minimum Medical Standards for Police Officers and
current standards established by the Washington Association of
Sheriffs and Police Chiefs, the International Association of
Chiefs of Police, the Americans with Disabilities Act, and other
applicable State or Federal Laws. Consultations with the City's
Employee Assistant Program are not considered psychological
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examinations,
PROVIDED, the applicant must
possess visual acuity of not less than 20/100 vision in each eye without
correction and corrected to 20/20 in the better eye and 20/30 in the lesser
eye."
Sec. 2. When there is probable cause that an employee is
psychologically or medically unfit to perform his/her duties, the
commission or the Chief of Police may require the Each employee to
undergo a shall take a medical, physical or psychological or
medical examination in accordance with current standards
established by the City of Seattle Minimum Medical Standards for
Police Officers, Washington Association of Sheriffs and Police
Chiefs, the International Association of Chiefs of Police, the
Americans with Disabilities Act, and other applicable State or
Federal Laws. Consultations with the City's Employee Assistance
Program are not considered psychological examinations. required in
writing by the Commission or thc Police Chief. Such examinations shall be
appropriate to determine thc ability of the employee to perform thc duties of
Such examinations shall be
conducted by a physician,—or in the case of a psychological examination, a
psychologist or psychiatrist designated by the Police Chief or delegate and
the cost of such examinations shall be borne by the City.
Sec. 3. The results of all medical, physical, and psychological
examinations required in sections 1 & 2 of this rule shall be certified to the
Police Chief and filed with the £ccretary/Chicf Examiner.
RULE XIIIV. EXAMINATIONS FOR PROMOTION
Sec. 1. When in the opinion of the Chief, it is beneficial to maintain
a current and valid register for promotions, the Chief shall advise the
Examiner of the need for examination to establish and maintain such a
register.
Sec. 2. When vacancies occur in any grade, they shall wherever
practicable, be filled by promotion from the next lower grade, as may be
determined by the Commission. Promotions shall be made upon merit shown by a
promotional examination consisting of any combination of two or more of the
following: tests as outlined below:
a. practical written examination
b. written test
c. performance test
d. oral test
e. assessment center
f. physical agility
g. performance evaluation
h. evaluation of experience and training
The Examiner with the concurrence of the Chief, may assign relative
weights to each dimension and/or portion of the examination provided that
weights assigned are included on the promotional job announcement and
provided that no segment is weighted more than 50%.
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Sec. 3. In the event the Examiner determines that the number
of applicants responding to an examination announcement is
excessive in relation to the number of projected job openings, the
Examiner may limit admission to the remainder of the examination
to those scoring highest on a preliminary test or a combination of
tests listed in Sec. 2 of this Rule. The number of applicants
allowed to complete the examination shall be at least twice the
number of anticipated vacancies for the subsequent year or 20% of
those applicants with passing scores on the preliminary test(s)
whichever is greater/ but never less than six (6) or the entire
body of applicants who pass the preliminary test(s) whichever is
less.
Sec. 4. No person who fails to attain an average of at least 758% in
each segment of complete proficiency on an examination for promotion
exclusive of any such military credit, shall be deemed eligible for promotion.
Sec. 5. Applicants for promotion shall currently be employed with the
Yakima Police Department. Service in an 'acting' capacity, temporary or
provisional appointment shall not be credited towards promotional service
requirements.
Sec. 6. a. Applicants for the 4ositon of Police Serceant.
Applicants must be currently serving, and have served for a
minimum of five and one-half consecutive years (including
probation), in the classification of Police Officer on the Yakima
Police Department. Applicants for promotion to any classification must not
have had an unsatisfactory rating on any performance evaluation efficiency
ra=ng item during the previous two years, nor any disciplinary action
reflected during this period. The disciplinary action to be considered in
this section shall be limited to removal, suspension, demotion or discharge
only and shall not include any other management action including letters of
reprimand. Upon notification by the Examiner of applicants for a
promotion, the Chief of Police will certify to the Examiner
whether any unsatisfactory performance evaluations have taken
place.
b. Promotional Examination results shall be withheld from
all applicants for at least 72 hours (3 working days) following
completion of each phase of the examination process. During this
time, individual applicants who are dissatisfied with the conduct
of the examination may appeal in writing with just cause to the
Chief Examiner. Upon receipt of such an appeal, disclosure of all
examination results will be withheld until such time as the
Commission shall rule on such appeal. Numerical or standing scores
will be provided for all phases of the exam process unless an
appeal is filed. The final examination results shall include
overall -numerical or standing scores and shall be withheld from
all applicants for at least 120 hours (5 working days) following
the completion of the final examination process. During this time,
individual applicants who are dissatisfied with the conduct of the
examination may appeal in writing with just cause to the Chief
Examiner. Upon receipt of such an appeal, disclosure of all
examination results will be withheld until such time as the
Commission shall rule on such appeal. Applicants muct have a good
credit rating and an excellent reputation and character.
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lower classification in the Yakima Policc Department.
Sec. 7B. No person chall bc admitted for examination for the
classification of Chicf of Police without having cpcnt two years, including
Department.
RULE XV. APPOINTMENTS TO CLASSIFICATION OF POLICE CHIEF
Seo. 1.
In thc appointment to the classification of Policc Chicf,
Sec. 2.—cpndid -tes 4 -or the classification of Police Chicf chall be
selected in accordance with Police Rulc XIV cxccpt ac such requirements may be
waived undcr Section 3 hereof.
Se -o---3. In cases of public emergency or whenever the public interest
its discretion, by majority votc, in thosc
insufficient nurbcr of suitable and qualified candidates availablc within thc
w__
Department. All other provisionc of these rulcc chall apply cxccpt undcr cuch
RULE XIV.
APPOINTMENTS ON BASIS OF MERIT, ETC.
All appointments to, and promotions in the Civil Service shall be made
solely on merit, efficiency and fitness, which shall be ascertained by
competitive examination and impartial investigation as herein set forth, and
no person shall be reinstated or transferred, suspended or discharged from any
such place, position, or employment contrary to the provisions of RCW Title 41
and these Rules, respectively.
RULE XV. REGISTER OF ELIGIBLES, REINSTATEMENT REGISTER,
REQUISITIONS AND APPOINTMENTS, AND RE-EMPLOLYMENT REGISTER
Sec. 1.
111 entrance and promotional applicants who shall attain a
Rulcc, chall be eligible for
clac-ification for which the examination was taken. Work experiencc credit
a ram e# ewe - e 'c t per fear ter each year of service in
thc aggregate and no cuch credit shall be given for any fractional part of a
Work experience shall mean point credit for time spent
Yakima in thc classification to which applicant
year's
service.
employment in good standing.
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Such credit
12
chall
only bc granted to applicants
who achieve a paccing grade on examination and who arc cocking a
Sec. 1. The name and total point accumulation of any all entry-level
or promotional applicants achieving a passing examination grade, as set
forth in these Rules, shall be entered by the Examiner in the eligible
register for the classification for which they were examined in descending
order of total point accumulation. The person having the highest total
point accumulation in the classification for which he or she was examined
shall be certified first and likewise in order of the descending total point
accumulation.
Sec. 2. Within one year after discharge or resignation under
circumstances which indicate unfitness for service no former employee shall be
eligible for examination or appointment to any former classification with
similar duties and responsibilities.
Sec. 3. No name shall remain on an eligible list a register of
eligibles more than one year from the date of the establishment of the
register, unless the Commission shall otherwise order.
Sec. 4. A reinstatement register shall also be kept which shall contain
the names of those laid off because of curtailment of expenditures, reduction
in force, and for like causes. Such register shall remain in effect
until all persons meeting the minimum class requirements on the
list are re -hired provided if reinstatement is offered and the
candidates declines, their names will be removed from the
Reinstatement Register. Reinstatement shall be in the reverse order of
their lay offs.
Sec. 5. Re-employment. A former employee who is separated
from service under circumstances which do not indicate unfitness
for duty may be eligible for re-employment, subject to all of the
following provisions:
a. A vacant Police Officer position must be available
within the department.
b. All existing reinstatement and preferred eligible
lists must be exhausted.
c. Employment must resume within 12 months from the
date of separation.
d. Re-employed persons will return to the
classification of Police Officer at a pay step two
steps lower than that held at the time of
separation, provided that re-employed sergeants
will return as Police Officers at pay step C.
e. Prior time -in -grade and time -in-service will apply
toward promotion eligibility, subject to all other
provisions of these rules.
f. Previous seniority will be lost.
g. All re-employed personnel will serve in a
probationary status for 18 months.
h. The Chief of Police will approve.
Nothing in this section guarantees the re-employment of any
individual. The Chief of Police is the final approving authority
for re-employment, and the Chief may, in his or her sole
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discretion, fill existing vacancies from the eligible register in
lieu of re-employing any individual.
Sec. 6. Upon requisition of an appointing authority for certification
of an eligible for the filling of a vacancy in any department, certification
shall be made in the following manner. The Examiner shall certify first the
name of that individual which appears highest on the reinstatement register
for the particular classification to be filled. Likewise, this process shall
be repeated until the reinstatement register for any classification is
exhausted. Thereafter the same process shall be repeated using the preferred
eligible list for the particular classification filled. No certification
shall be made from any promotional or eligible register until the
reinstatement register and the preferred eligible register for that
classification have been exhausted. In the event of exhaustion of the
reinstatement register and the preferred eligible register for any
classification, and upon requisition, the Examiner shall certify to the
appointing authority the name or names, as the case may be, of those the
person(s) standing highest on a register of eligibles. Certification from a
list of eligibles shall be as follows:
Subsection A. Certification for Original Appointments. The Examiner
shall certify to the appointing authority, the names and addresses of the
three (3) persons, if there shall be so many eligible, standing highest on the
register.
Subsection B. Special Certifications for Entry -Level Appoint-
ments. In the event the composition of the work force within the department
in which a vacancy has occurred, has not achieved the minimum hiring goals
established in accordance with the City of Yakima Affirmative Action Plan, the
Chief Examiner shall certify the names of three additional minority candidates
and three additional women candidates -- highest standing first. The same
name shall only be certified once for each appointment.
When two (2) or more vacancies are to be filled, the vacancies shall be
acted upon independently of each other and consecutively. Any certified
applicants not selected shall maintain their placement on the eligible
register. The appointing authority may appoint any one of the persons so
certified.
The purpose of this subsection is to allow for the appointment of
minorities and women from an eligible register to raise the number of
minorities and women to goals established in accordance with the City of
Yakima's Affirmative Action Plan. The authority of this section shall be used
to fill open competitive positions only and it shall not be used to fill more
than fifty percent of the vacancies within a calendar year for open
competitive positions covered by these rules.
Whenever an eligible applicant who has been certified to the
appointing authority is passed over for appointment in favor of some
eligible applicant with lower standing on the eligible register, such person
who has been passed over shall be notified in writing of such action and the
reasons therefore, by the appointing authority with a copy to the Examiner.
Any eligible applicants that i -s •rho are passed over shall maintain his
placement on the eligible register unless removed for cause.
Subsection C. Certification for Promotion. The Examiner shall certify
to the appointing authority the name of the eligible promotional applicant
standing highest on the register, who is physically and mentally able at the
time of certification, as determined by the Department Chief, to assume the
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duties of the classification. When two or more vacancies are to be filled,
the name of the person next highest on the register for each additional
vacancy may be certified. The Department Chief shall give written notice to
any promotional applicant who is to be passed over pursuant to this
subsection. Such applicant shall have ten (10) days from receipt of such
notice to appeal such action in writing to the Commission, otherwise, such
right shall be waived.
In the event an eligible promotional applicant is passed over because of
physical or mental inability to assume the duties of that classification, such
applicant shall remain on the register.
Sec. 76. ,Provisional, Temporary and Acting Assignments. When
the appointing authority determines that a need exists to make a
provisional, temporary, or acting assignment to a higher
classification, such assignments will be governed by the following
provisions:
a. Temporary or provisional assignments of a duration
greater than one month will be made from currently
eligible candidates in the order of their ranking
on the most recent promotional list. No temporary
or provisional assignment will continue for more
than four months, and no person will receive more
than one such temporary assignment in any 12 month
period.
b. Acting assignments of a duration of one month or
less will be made from currently eligible
candidates who are assigned to the squad or work
unit in which the vacancy exists, in the order of
their ranking on the most recent promotional list.
No person will receive more than one such acting
assignment in any 12 .month period, unless there are
no other eligible candidates assigned to that squad
or work unit.
c. Employees who decline two consecutive temporary or
acting assignments, will have their names removed
from consideration for any future temporary or
acting assignment made from that list.
In the event no list of eligibles exists for a classification, the Examiner,
under the direction of the Commis ion, may establish a provisional or
e.
months nor shall any person receive more
scion is notified that proficiency in any
or the Commission shall certi
highest standing, not being below the minimum of 70$, in cuch special subject,
Sec. 8. When certification of an eligible is made for any permanent
classification, such eligible may decline such appointment, or prior to
certification, may waive the same for reason satisfactory to the Commission,
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15
without losing placement on the register. Unless excused by the Commission,
the refusal of an appointment tendered shall be sufficient cause for dropping
the name of the eligible from the register.
RULE XVI -Z-. PROBATIONARY PERIOD, EMPLOYMENT PROMOTION -
INSPECTION OF EXAMINATION RECORDS
Sec. 1. The probationary period for a new employee shall not be
considered complete until after the expiration of 12 months one ycar of
satisfactory service, following successful completion of the cxcluding
basic training academy, during which time such new employee shall be
terminated if found unfit or unsatisfactory for service for any reason.
Sec. 2. The probationary period for a promotion shall be considered
complete after twelve months' satisfactory service. If the appointing
authority deems the person promoted as unfit or unsatisfactory for service for
any reason, that individual shall be returned to the previous classification.
Sec. 3. In terminating the employment of any probationary employee, or
for failure of promotional appointment the appointing authority shall fully
and fairly consider the public interest; and shall, in writing, notify the
Examiner of such termination, and shall specifically set forth therein the
reasons for such action.
Sec. 4. In making an appointment from any name or list of names
certified, the appointing authority will be permitted to inspect the
application, certificates and the examination papers of the persons certified;
and may summon any certified person for such verbal inquiries as appropriate.
All such papers must remain with the Examiner at all times.
RULE XVII X4X. PERFORMANCE EVALUATION
Sec. 1. Evaluation of employee performance shall be viewed as an
opportunity to review and Discuss the employee's total work performance and
attitude. Such review sha_= be conducted in a positive atmosphere with the
objective of improving employee effectiveness.
Sec. 2. Fair and impartial performance evaluations shall be maintained
for each Civil Service employee, by the Police Chief in a form approved by the
Civil Service Commission. One copy of such evaluation shall be retained in
the departmental employee's file and a personnel file copy shall be completed
on the each employees on their anniversary date of hire covering the
preceding year's performance.
Sec. 3. Such performance evaluations shall be subject to review or
modification by the Civil Service Commission as it may deem right and proper
in any particular case.
RULE XVIII -XX. DISCIPLINARY ACTIONS
Sec. 1. The tenure of everyone holding an office, place, or employment
under the provisions of RCW Title 41 and these Rules, respectively, shall be
only during good behavior and any such person may be removed or discharged,
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suspended without pay, demoted or reduced in pay, or deprived of vacation
privileges or other special privileges for any of the following reasons:
a. Incompetency, inefficiency or inattention to or dereliction of duty;
b. Dishonesty, intemperance, immoral conduct, insubordination,
cowardice, discourteous treatment of the public or a fellow
employee, or any other act of omission or commission tending to
injure the public service; or any other willful improper conduct on
the part of the employee; or any willful violation of the provisions
of RCW Title 41 and these Rules, respectively;
c. Mental or physical unfitness for the classification which the
employee holds; or failure to maintain an efficiency rating above
the minimum requirements;
d. Any increase or decrease in weight which renders the employee unfit
for duty in the particular classification, rank or grade;
e. Promotion by any fire er police employee of disaffection among the
members of cithcr the department;
f. Excessive use of force or inhumane treatment of any person;
g. Dishonest, disgraceful, immoral or prejudicial conduct;
h. Drunkenness or use of intoxicating liquors, narcotics, or any other
habit forming drug, liquid or preparation, to such extent that the
use thereof interferes with the efficiency or mental or physical
fitness of the employees, or which precludes the employee from
properly performing the functions and duties of hie their
classification;
i. Conviction of a felony or a misdemeanor involving moral turpitude;
j.
Any willful or inexcusable failure to pay any just debt or
obligation;
k. Engaging in such political activity or activities as are prohibited
by applicable state or federal laws or department policy;
1. Willful refusal or failure to comply with the order or direction of
a supervisor or superior officer issued to implement a statute,
ordinance, departmental regulation or in the line duty;
m. Any other act or failure to act, which in the judgment of the Civil
Service Commission, is sufficient to show the offender to be an
unsuitable or unfit person to be employed in the public service.
Sec. 2. The Police Chief is authorized to use as disciplinary
measures, deprivation of accumulated Court time, Holiday time, or Compensatory
time for such periods as deemed proper and appropriate under the
circumstances.
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Sec. 3. Any employee covered by those these rules who is subject to
discharge, suspension, demotion, or deprivation of vacation or other
privilege, shall be provided with a pre -disciplinary hearing conducted by the
appointing authority prior to the administration of any disciplinary action
against the employee. At the time of the hearing, the appointing authority
shall give the employee a written notice of the disciplinary action
contemplated, an explanation of the evidence supporting the charges, and also
provide the employee with an opportunity to present an explanation of the
disciplinary matter. The employee may be represented by an attorney or union
representative at the hearing.
Sec. 4. No permanently appointed person in the classified Civil Service
shall be reprimanded, removed, suspended, demoted, discharged, reduced in pay,
or subject to any other disciplinary action of any kind, except for cause,
about which the person is advised followed within 48 hours from the time and
date so advised by a written statement of the cause in general terms which is
served on the person or sent to the person's last known address by U.S.
certified mail with first-class postage prepaid, return receipt requested and
a copy filed with the Commission. A copy of this rule shall accompany such
written notice. Any person so reprimanded, (except written and oral
reprimands), removed, suspended, demoted, discharged reduced in pay or
subject to any disciplinary action of any kind, (hereinafter called discipline
or disciplined) may file with the Commission a written request for a hearing,
within 15 30 days from the time of receipt of written notice of such
discipline. Whereupon the Commission shall conduct such hearing. Failure to
file such written request within the time specified shall be deemed a waiver
of any right of review.
If a written reprimand results in an unsatisfactory or lower overall
evaluation rating, the employee may then appeal the reprimand by filing in
writing within 30 days of receiving the evaluation.
The hearing shall be confined to the determination of the question of
whether such discipline was or was not made for political or religious
reasons, or was or was not made in good faith for cause. After such investi-
gation, the Commission may affirm the discipline or if it shall find that the
discipline was made for political or religious reasons or was not made in good
faith for cause, it shall order the immediate reinstatement or reemployment of
such person in the office, place, or employment from which such person was
disciplined; which reinstatement shall, if the Commission so provides in its
discretion, be retroactive and entitle such persons to pay or compensation
from the time of such discipline.
Written reprimands shall be removed from the employee's files upon their
request after two three years, if there has been no reoccurrence of the
conduct or performance which gave cause for the reprimand. -
The Commission upon such investigation, in lieu of affirming the
discipline, may modify the order of discipline by directing other disciplines
which may include a suspension without pay for a given period and subsequent
restoration to duty, demotion in classification, grade or pay, loss of
compensatory or holiday time or court time, or a letter of reprimand. The
findings of the Commission shall be certified in writing to the appointing
power, and shall be forthwith enforced by such officer. All such investi-
gations made by the Commission shall be by public hearing after reasonable
notice to the accused of the time and place of such hearing, at which hearing
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the accused shall be afforded an opportunity of appearing and presenting his
defense in person and by counsel.
The accused or the appointing authority may appeal from any final
judgment or order concurred in by a majority of the Commission to the Superior
Court for Yakima County. Such appeal may be taken by serving the Commission,
within thirty days after the entry of such judgment or order, a written notice
of appeal, stating the grounds thereof, and demanding that a certified
transcript of the record and of all papers on file in the office of the
Commission affecting or relating to such judgment or order, be filed by the
Commission with such court. The Commission shall, within ten days after the
filing of such notice, make, certify and file such transcript with such court.
Such court shall thereupon proceed to hear and determine such appeal in a
summary manner: Provided, however, That such hearing shall be confined to the
determination of whether the judgment or order of discipline was or was not
made in good faith for cause, and no appeal to such court shall be taken
except upon such ground or grounds.
Sec. 5. A disciplinary reduction to a lower classification
will result in the person's reverting to the seniority formerly
held in that classification.
RULE XXX -XX. LEAVES OF ABSENCE
Leave of absence not exceeding 30 days without pay, may be granted by the
appointing authority to any person under Civil Service; provided, that such
appointing authority shall give notice of such leave to the Commission. All
temporary employment caused by leaves of absence shall be made from the
eligible list of the classified Civil Service. Longer leaves of absence, or
extensions to leaves of absence, may be granted by the Commission upon written
request of the employee, endorsed by the appointing authority giving the
reasons for granting such leave. A leave of absence for more than three
months when granted by the Commission shall not entitle the employee when
returning to duty to resume the former classification, but the employee shall
be entitled only to standing on the preferred eligible list for that
classification and any classification formerly held by such employee under
this Civil Service.
Upon the granting of a leave of absence, the Examiner shall place the
name of such employee on a preferred eligible list, the order of which shall
be determined by the date set by the appointing authority or the Commission
for return to work - earliest date first. In the event of identical dates of
return to work, seniority as between such employees shall govern - that
employee with the greatest seniority receiving the highest placement on the
register. Such employee may return to employment at an earlier date than that
set by the Commission or the appointing authority, provided, that in that
event, the earlier date shall govern the placement of such employee on the
preferred eligible list.
In the event such employee fails to return to work on the date set by the
appointing authority or the Commission, then such employee shall have no
further right to any classification formerly held under this Commission.
If a returning employee accepts a lower level classification than the
original classification vacated, such employee shall remain on the preferred
eligible list for the other positions formerly held by such employee until
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c
such employee is placed in the classification originally vacated at the time
of the leave of absence.
These limitations shall not apply to absence on account of disability
caused by sickness, or injury, or to leave of absence during which the
employee performs temporary service in another department of the City. Where
a member of the Police Department is granted a leave of absence in excess of
three months, the employee shall be required to pass a satisfactory physical
examination before resuming employment.
RULE XX -I -I. LAYOFFS, OTHER VOLUNTARY REDUCTIONS IN RANK AND
MILITARY LEAVES
Sec. 1. Layoffs. Whenever it becomes necessary in any department
through lack of finances, or other cause, to reduce the force, the order of
layoff shall be accomplished in the following order:
a. Persons who are serving in a temporary capacity within a
classification sought to be reduced shall be first laid off in order
of seniority, least senior first;
b. Those still serving their probationary period within a
classification sought to be reduced in order of seniority, least
senior first;
c. Those whose appointments are complete within a classification sought
to be reduced in order of seniority, least senior first.
Seniority for the purpose of this rule shall mean accumulated time in
employment within a particular classification within a department excluding
leaves of absences in excess of 90 days and time off due to suspensions
without pay. In the event of identical accumulated time within the affected
classification, the order of hire or promotion, shall determine seniority.
In. the event any permanently appointed person employed in a
classification above entry level is laid off, that person shall have the right
to voluntarily reduce in rank to the next lower classification previously held
within the department regardless of whether a vacancy exists within that
classification. Any person, other than persons serving temporary appointments
in higher classifications, choosing voluntary reduction in rank under this
section shall be regarded as the most senior person in that classification to
which they are reduced for the purpose of any further layoffs. Temporary
appointees electing voluntary reduction in rank shall assume the seniority in
the previously held classification. The least senior permanently appointed
person within any classification shall be laid off in the event all the
positions within the classification are filled and a voluntary reduction in
rank from a higher classification occurs. Likewise, if a persons 4-s are laid
off as a result of a voluntary reduction in rank they may voluntarily reduce
in rank to the next lower classification previously held.
All persons except temporary appointees who choose to voluntarily reduce
in rank under the terms of this section shall be placed on a reinstatement
register for each classification from which they were reduced.
CSR -P 20
4/7/98
Sec. 2. Other Voluntary Reductions in Rank. Any person in the
classified Civil Service may request to be reduced in rank by filing with the
Civil Service Commission a request in writing stating the reasons for such
reduction and the lower grade or rank into which they are to be placed. Such
employee must have previously held the requested classification.
Such reduction in rank may be sanctioned by the Civil Service Commission
without examination, and the persons so reduced shall be entitled to all the
rights and privileges under civil service which are enjoyed by other persons
in the same rank and grade to which they have been reduced. Any person who
accepts a voluntary reduction under this section shall revert to
seniority held in that classification.
Sec. 3. Veteran Reemployment Riahts. Any Civil Service employee who
volunteers or who is otherwise inducted into the military service of the
United States shall, upon termination of such service, be entitled to such
rights accorded by RCW 73.16, as amended.
RULE XXI-I-I. REPORTS TO BE MADE
In order that the Commission may keep proper record of changes in the
classified service, the appointing authority shall immediately report in
writing to the Commission:
a. Every probational or temporary appointment made.
b. Every refusal or neglect to accept an appointment by a person who
has been duly certified.
c. Every suspension or other disciplinary action resulting in a
loss of pay made of any officer or employee with the reasons
therefor.
d. Every separation from service, and whether the separation was caused
by death, dismissal, resignation, or retirement.
e. Every position created or abolished.
RULE XXII XXIV. OUTSIDE EMPLOYMENT
If any member of the Police Department shall engage in any business or
activity extraneous to that person's duties under Civil Service which, in the
discretion of the appointing authority, shall tend to divert attention from
their duties or render the employee inefficient or unfit for duty, the
appointing authority may provide written notification to desist from such
business or activity, and if they shall refuse to comply with such notice,
shall have the power to suspend or discharge such employee from the service.
RULE XXIIIV. SEVERABILITY
If any provision of these rules or the application thereof to any person
or circumstance be held invalid, the invalidity shall not affect other
provisions and applications of these rules which can be given effect within
the invalid provision or application and to this end these rules are
severable.
CSR -P 21
4/7/98
Craig W. Hanson
Law Offices
A Limited
Liability
Partnership
Including
Professional
Corporations
2120 Caton Way SW
Suite B
Olympia, WA
98502-1106
(360) 754-6001
Facsimile:
(360) 754-1605
Anchorage, AK
Fairbanks, AK
Los Angeles, CA
Mount Vernon, WA
Olympia, WA
Portland, OR
San Francisco, CA
Seattle, WA
London, England
MANE
POWELL
SPEARS
LUBERSKY
LLP
October 27, 1998
Mr. Paul McMurray
Assistant City Attorney
City of Yakima — Legal Department
200 South Third
Yakima, WA 98901-2830
Re: Engagement of Services
Dear Mr. McMurray:
OCT 2 91998
cif 1 1
You have contacted our firm regarding Yakima's Police Civil Service
Commission's need for legal counsel. We would be pleased to provide such
counsel. It is our practice to declare at the outset of a new matter how fees and
cost arrangements are handled in our office.
Our office bills fees on an hourly basis for services performed. My services will
be billed at a municipal rate of $145.00 per hour. Expenses necessarily
incurred in connection with our representation are also billed to the client.
Expenses include, but are not limited to, copying, court filing fees, fees for
service of process, court reporter fees and travel expenses, including mileage
and parking.
The hourly rates charged for attorneys in our office varies dependent upon the
nature of the work to be performed as does the rate at which we bill time for our
paralegals. Although I will be in charge of this matter, it may be necessary to
utilize the services of other attorneys in the office from time to time. You will be
consulted if such use is believed necessary.
Once again, I am most pleased that you have considered our firm and we look
forward to working with you. If the above-described billing procedures are
agreeable to you, I would appreciate it if the appropriate representative at the
City would so indicate in the space provided below and return the original of this
Mr. Paul McMurray
Re: Engagement of Services
October 27, 1998
Page 2
letter to my office in the enclosed envelope. If you have any questions or
comments, please do not hesitate to call.
Very truly yours,
LANE POWELL SPEARS LUBERSKY LLP
Craig W. Hanson
CWH:mks
By: Date:
Paul McMurray
Assistant City Attorney, City of
Yakima
R:W ETWARE\OLY\CW H\YAKI MA\ENGAGEMENT.DOC