File #: 2024-3870    Version: 1 Name:
Type: Non-Consent Status: Passed
File created: 9/18/2024 In control: STEERING COMMITTEE
On agenda: 9/25/2024 Final action: 9/25/2024
Title: LABOR CONTRACT NEGOTIATIONS - CHIEF NEGOTIATOR
Sponsors: Laura Maravilla
Attachments: 1. Agenda Report, 2. Agreement for Special Services - Liebert Cassidy Whitmore
Related files: 2024-3854
FROM: Ryan Gallagher, Board Chairman
Originator: Laura Maravilla, Director of Human Resources

SUBJECT:

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LABOR CONTRACT NEGOTIATIONS - CHIEF NEGOTIATOR
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GENERAL MANAGER'S RECOMMENDATION

recommendation
RECOMMENDATION:

Authorize the Board Chairman to execute an agreement for special services with Liebert Cassidy Whitmore and approve Laura Drottz Kalty to serve as Chief Negotiator for labor contract negotiations for an amount not to exceed $100,000.
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BACKGROUND

The Orange County Sanitation District (OC San) is preparing for labor contract negotiations with all three recognized employee organizations which include the Supervisor and Professional Management Group (SPMG) comprised of two bargaining units, the Orange County Employees Association (OCEA) comprised of three bargaining units, and the International Union of Operating Engineers Local 501 (Local 501).

In October 2023, the Board of Directors approved a professional services agreement with Liebert Cassidy Whitmore (LCW) for Human Resources legal services for the period of November 1, 2023 through October 31, 2026 with renewal options. The selection was made following a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) process, through which OC San sought qualified employment legal firms to serve as OC San's outside counsel for legal advice and defense on human resources matters. Contract labor negotiations was not included as part of the RFQ process based on the nature and scope of the work requiring specialized knowledge and experience in public sector labor contract negotiations.

In accordance with OC San's Purchasing Ordinance No. OC SAN-61, professional services agreements are subject to a specified procurement process such as an RFQ or Request for Proposal process, except for firms or individuals that are selected by and report directly to the Board. For such contracts, the Board shall determine the method of selection, consistent with the requirements of applicable law. Based on this o...

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