Consider a Resolution to Extend the Current City Engineer Contract and Authorize a Postponed Subsequent Recruitment

At the June 5, 2012 City Council meeting, staff received authorization to recruit for the position of City Engineer and to use a consulting engineer during the recruitment period.  

Hakanson Anderson Engineering was brought on board in July and a recruitment process was conducted.  The recruitment produced five candidates and all five candidates were interviewed.  At this time, staff is unable to recommend a candidate for the City Engineer position.  

Hakanson Anderson has indicated a willingness to stay on board for an additional six months.   It is anticipated that this period of time of time would likely generate a new applicant pool which would be pursued in January or February.  As recommended at the June 5th meeting, the intent would be to have a transition period in March where the new City Engineer and the consulting engineer would work together to ensure a smooth transition. 

Staff recommends retaining Hakanson Anderson Engineering for an additional six months and conducting a subsequent recruitment for a City Engineer in January or February of 2013.

The funding for contracted engineering services is included in the 2012/2013 budget.  The cost associated with a new City Engineer is estimated to be $108,557 annually; with $27,880 coming from the enterprise fund and $80,677 from the general fund; also included in the 2012/2013 budget.

Motion to approve resolution # 12-09-XXX confirming the recommendation of the Personnel Committee to retain Hakanson Anderson Engineering for an additional six months and to conduct a subsequent recruitment for a City Engineer in January or February of 2013.