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Lake County Gazette

Monday, November 18, 2024

City of North Chicago Human Resources Committee met July 17

City of North Chicago Human Resources Committee met July 17.

Here are the minutes provided by the committee:

Vice Chair, Alderman Jackson called the meeting to order.

ROLL CALL:

Present: Jackson, Coleman, Evans, Allen, Smith

Absent: Murphy, January

II. DISCUSSION OF INSURANCE RENEWAL PRESENTATION FOR MEDICAL, DENTAL, VISION AND LIFE INSURANCE BY GLOBAL BENEFITS AND TO WAIVE COMPETITIVE BIDDING: 

Alderman Jackson asked to change the order from II as the first item to allow presenter.

Human Resources Director Liz Black introduced Global Benefits presenter; Kurt Schmitke. Met Life renewal was less than Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS); dental insurance for 2-year renewal; negotiable with BCBS if their cost was lowered by next year; no increase for Life or Vision insurance. Mr. Schmitke added no plan design changes for Met Life; a 7.7% reduction; $4,100 credit. For vision insurance there was an administration fee of $1.00 monthly to EyeMed and pay the claim cost. The Mayor commended Mr. Schmitke on his presentation.

Mrs. Black asked to waive competitive bidding; Global Benefits was reliable and had consistent quality standards; attentive to city’s needs, compared to other communities and received good rating; their vast experience and negotiated on city’s behalf.

Alderman Allen questioned clarification with MetLife; Mrs. Black explained was a 2-rate guarantee. She asked if this item could be placed on the next Council Meeting, August 7, 2023.

Alderman Coleman asked when open enrollment was effective when approved; Mrs. Black stated September 1, 2023; medical was the same with BCBS; dental coverage was the same.

Attorney Simon clarified the Committee Chair procedurally was to move the item to Council Meeting.

III. DISCUSSION OF MANAGEMENT ANALYST ADMINISTRATOR PAYGRADE FROM A-15 TO A-14 FOR NEW HIRES: 

Mrs. Black explained the grade of A-14 for new hires (position of Management Analyst Administrator) Alderman Coleman questioned clarification and Mrs. Black explained.

Mrs. Black stated the position was vacant within estimated month; she was doing her best; payroll processed etc.

Alderman Coleman provided scenario if position was vacant in 2-years; Mrs. Black was hopeful of filling position within 6 months. Alderman Coleman asked if any plan in the next 30-60 days; the Mayor replied no.

Alderman Smith asked if Mrs. Black had received response for internal prospects and what method were employees informed; Mrs. Black stated via e-mail there was (1) that she planned to follow-up with. Alderman Smith could there be a floater; Mrs. Black stated the previous individual started in another department. Alderman Smith stated it may have been overlooked and asked if e-mail communication was the best method and suggested posting on bulletin board in breakroom; reaching out to Department Heads of the position. Mrs. Black agreed with other methods.

Alderman Coleman questioned to maintain the next (90) days; The Mayor chimed in; adding that Mrs. Black would inform him accordingly if she was experiencing difficulty in her department; he would temporarily assist her with someone internally to continue her department functions.

Alderman Smith added was best to be pro-active vs. reactive and encouraged her not to be reluctant to request assistance.

I. DISCUSSION OF HUMAN RESOURCES DEPARTMENT MONTHLY REPORT: 

Mrs. Black provided overview of Human Resources monthly report; 1 DHS Grant; ended walking challenge; 3 new hires in Public Works Department; part-time employee in E&CD assisting with claims; no liability claims; continuing payroll processing; openings for Chief of Staff and Water Operator Class A.

Alderman Allen moved, seconded by Alderman Coleman that the Human Resources Committee Meeting stand adjourned.

ROLL CALL:

Ayes: Jackson, Coleman, Evans, Allen, Smith

Nays: None

Absent: Murphy, January

The meeting adjourned at 10:14 p.m.

https://www.northchicago.org/vertical/sites/%7B52959CF2-969E-41D9-A9CF-CF0A11D0BEA9%7D/uploads/COMMITTEE_MINUTES.7.17.23.pdf