Consider adopting a resolution authorizing an exception to the 180-day waiting period for the hiring of Karen Kawelmalcher as an extra-help retired annuitant. (No general fund impact) (Pannu) (Est. Time: 2 min)

Adopt a resolution authorizing an exception to the 180-day waiting period for the hiring of Karen Kawelmalcher as an extra-help retired annuitant, effective January 12, 2025.

The Public Employees' Pension Reform Act of 2013 (PEPRA) and Government Code sections 7522.56 and 21224 require that individuals who retire from a CalPERS agency must wait 180 days before being reemployed by the same or another CalPERS Agency unless the individual chooses to reinstate from retirement. Government Code section 7522.56 allows exceptions to this 180-day waiting period under certain circumstances, including hiring retirees to perform work in critically needed positions. The Board of Supervisors must adopt a resolution authorizing appointment under this exception.

The attached resolution (Att. A), if adopted, would authorize the appointment of Karen Kawelmacher to serve as a Procurement and Contracts Officer to assist the General Services Procurement Division, who is currently facing significant operational challenges due to being down critical positions.  Given the pressing demands, there is an urgent need to leverage the expertise of a retired annuitant, particularly one with a deep understanding of the County's procurement policies and practices. This individual can immediately contribute to addressing critical tasks such as timely completion of Requests for Proposals (RFP) for grant-funded projects, which have expiring funds and pose a significant risk to the County's ability to deliver essential levee restoration. Additionally, Ms. Kawelmacher's assistance with RFPs, such as Health and Human Services Mass Care Plan Initiatives, would support the County’s preparedness and ability to respond to critical community needs.

Department of Financial Services
Human Resources Department
General Services Department