HomeMy WebLinkAbout2017-06-13; City Council; ; Adopt a Resolution approving a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Carlsbad Firefighters' Association, IncPage 315
Meeting Date: June 13, 2017
To: Mayor and City Council f,.V
Kevin Crawford, City Manage~ From:
Staff Contact: Julie Clark, Human Resources Director
Julie.clark@carlsbadca.gov or 760-602-2440
Subject: Adopt a Resolution approving a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU)
with the Carlsbad Firefighters' Association, Inc.
Recommended Action
Adoption of a Resolution approving a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Carlsbad
Firefighters' Association, Inc. (CFA).
Executive Summary
Representatives of the city and the CFA have met and conferred in good faith and have reached
an agreement regarding wages, hours and other terms and conditions of employment for
represented employees. The term of the MOU with CFA is from January 1, 2017 to December
31, 2019.
Discussion
The MOU with CFA includes the following provisions:
1. COMPENSATION ADJUSTMENTS:
The City Manager recommends a shift in the compensation philosophy to ensure that City of
Carlsbad salaries fall within the top third of the comparable agencies in the San Diego public
sector market~
As such, the MOU states that, retroactive to January 1, 2017, all CFA represented employees
will receive a salary increase based on their classification as shown below.
• Fire Engineer, Fire Captain, Captain Specialist and Assistant Fire Marshal 3.45%
• All other classifications 2.25%
Effective January 1, 2018, all CFA represented employees will receive a salary increase based
on their classification as shown below.
• Fire Engineer, Fire Captain, Captain Specialist and Assistant Fire Marshal 3.3%
• All other classifications 2%
Effective January 1, 2019, all CFA represented employees will receive a two percent (2%)
salary increase.
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2. FLEXIBLE BENEFITS PROGRAM: Retroactive to January 1, 2017, the city's health insurance
contribution for (FA-represented employees for each coverage level will be set to the
following amounts:
Employee Only= $597 /month (no change)
Employee+ 1 = $1,122/month (increase of $85/month)
Family= $1,472/month (increase of $232/month)
Waive Medical Insurance = $267 /month (no change)
Effective the pay periods that include January 1, 2018 and January 1, 2019, the city's
health insurance contribution will be set to dollar amounts that equate to eighty
percent {80%) of the average health premium for those enrolling in the group health
plan. For those who waive medical coverage, the city's contribution will be equal to fifty
percent {50%) of the contribution associated with the Employee Only coverage level.
3. LONG TERM DISABILITY INSURANCE: Retroactive to January 1, 2017, the city will pay the
premium for the long term disability insurance plan for CFA-represented employees and
Fire Safety Management employees. The cost for this plan is currently being paid by the
employees.
4. POST RETIREMENT HEALTHCARE TRUST: Retroactive to January 1, 2017, the city will
contribute twenty-five dollars ($25) per month per employee to the Post Retirement
Healthcare Trust to which CFA employees are currently contributing their own money.
5. DEFERRED COMPENSATION MATCHING: As soon as administratively possible after
ratification ofthe CFA MOU, and until December 31, 2019, for Safety Tier 3 employees only,
the City shall match employee contributions into a deferred compensation plan up to a
maximum of $2,500 per calendar year per employee.
6. VACATION ACCRUAL: Effective January 1, 2018, the vacation accrual rate for those
employees with three to five years of city service will increase by a) approximately thirty
hours per year for those employees on a twenty-four hour shift and b) approximately
eighteen hours per year for those employees on an eight, nine or ten-hour shift.
7. LEAVE OF ABSENCE: Changes have been made to the leave of absence provision in the CFA
MOU that put limits on the benefits given to those employees who are on an extended
leave of absence.
8. Language changes were made to the CFA MOU and the classification specifications as
outlined in Exhibits 2 and 3.
The above mentioned provisions are incorporated in the attached MOU (Attachment A to the
Resolution).
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Fiscal Analysis
The estimated annual fiscal impact associated with the actions described above is described
below.
• The fiscal impact of the salary increases included in the CFA MOU are described below.
These costs include salary and related benefits.
Cost Amount Included Fiscal Impact
in Adopted Budget
Fiscal Year 2016-17 $220,000 $195,000 $25,000
Fiscal Year 2017-18 $405,000 $0 $405,000
Fiscal Year 2018-19 $409,000 $0 $409,000
• The fiscal impact ofthe changes to Health Benefit Credits in Fiscal Years 2016-17 (half
year), 2017-18 (whole year) and 2018-19 (whole year) are $66,000, $87,000 and
$45,000 respectively. Funding for these change are included in the adopted Fiscal Year
2016-17 and Fiscal Year 2017-18 budgets.
• The fiscal impact of the changes to Long Term Disability insurance in Fiscal Years 2016-
17 (half year) and 2017-18 (whole year) are $12,500 and $25,000 respectively.
• The fiscal impact ofthe changes to Post Retirement Healthcare Trust in Fiscal Years
2016-17 (half year) and 2017-18 (whole year) are $11,500 and $23,000 respectively.
• The fiscal impact of the city deferred compensation matching for Tier 3 employees in
Fiscal Year 2017-18 is $41,000. Since this is not retroactive there is no impact to the
Fiscal Year 2016-17 budget.
• The estimated annual cost of the additional vacation accrual for employees who have
between three and five years of service effective January 1, 2018 is $9,000. This cost is
associated with the overtime paid to those employees who fill in for other employees
while they are on vacation in order to maintain staffing and service levels. Funding for
this change is included in the adopted Fiscal Year 2017-18 budget.
• The changes to the leave of absence provision will save the city money. The amount of
savings will vary each year based on the number of employees who are on an extended
leave of absence and the length of each absence.
• There is no fiscal impact associated with the remaining items outlined above.
The total fiscal impact to the Fiscal Year 2016-17 budget is $49,000. A transfer of $49,000 is
being requested from the General Fund Council Contingency account to the Fire operations
budget in the General Fund. The total fiscal impact to the Fiscal Year 2017-18 budget is
$494,000. A transfer of $494,000 is being requested from the General Fund reserves to the Fire
operations budget in the General Fund.
Funding for changes list ed above that occur in the future will be included in subsequent
adopted budgets.
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Environmental Evaluation (CEQA)
Pursuant to Public Resources Code section 21065, this action does not constitute a "project"
within the meaning of CEOA in that it has no potential to cause either a direct physical change
in the environment, or a reasonable foreseeable indirect physical change in the environment;
and therefore, does not require environmental review.
Public Notification
This item was noticed in accordance with the Ralph M. Brown Act and was available for viewing
at least 72 hours prior to the meeting date.
Exh ibits
1. Resolution adopting a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Carlsbad
Firefighters' Association, Inc. and approving the associated CFA Salary Schedule and
classification specifications.
2. Strike-out copy of the MOU between the City of Carlsbad and CFA.
3. Strike-out copy of the class ification specifications for Firefighter, Paramedic/Firefighter, Fire
Engineer and Fire Captain.
RESOLUTION NO. 2017-105
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CARLSBAD,
CALIFORNIA, ADOPTING A MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING
BETWEEN THE CITY OF CARLSBAD AND THE CARLSBAD FIREFIGHTERS'
ASSOCIATION, INC. (CFA) AND APPROVING THE ASSOCIATED CFA
SALARY SCHEDULE AND CLASSIFICATION SPECIFICATIONS
EXHIBIT 1
WHEREAS, the City of Carlsbad and the Carlsbad Firefighters' Association, Inc. (CFA) have
met and conferred in good faith pursuant to the Meyers-Milias-Brown Act regarding wages and
other terms and conditions of employment; and
WHEREAS, said representatives have reached agreement which they desire to submit to
the City Council for consideration and approval; and
WHEREAS, the City Council has determined it to be in the public interest to accept such
an agreement in the form of 1) a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), marked Attachment A,
2) a salary schedule, marked Attachment B and 3) revised classification descriptions marked
Attachment C and incorporated by reference herein; and
WHEREAS, the City Council desires to pay for the Long Term Disability premium effective
the first full pay period of calendar year 2017 for the eight (8) unrepresented Fire Safety
Management employees, in the same manner as CFA-represented employees, in order to achieve
consistent treatment of all full-time employees in this regard.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Carlsbad, California,
as follows:
1. That the above recitations are true and correct.
2. That the Memorandum of Understanding between the Carlsbad Firefighters'
Association, Inc. (CFA) and the City of Carlsbad as set forth in Attachment A is
hereby approved and the City Manager is authorized and directed to execute it.
3. That the salary schedule for CFA-represented employees as set forth in
Attachment B is hereby approved.
4. That the classification specifications as set forth in Attachment Care hereby
approved.
5. That the City Council authorizes the Administrative Services Director to transfer
funds in the amount of $49,000 from the General Fund Council Contingency
account to the Fire operations budget in the General Fund to be used to fund the
compensation and benefit changes that will occur during Fiscal Year 2016-17.
6. That the City Council authorizes the Administrative Services Director to transfer
funds in the amount of $494,000 from the General Fund Reserves to the Fire
operations budget in the General Fund to be used to fund the compensation and
benefit changes that will occur during Fiscal Year 2017-18.
PASSED, APPROVED AND ADOPTED at a Regular Meeting ofthe City Council ofthe City of
Carlsbad on the 13th day of June, 2017, by the following vote, to wit:
AVES: M. Hall, K. Blackburn, M. Schumacher, C. Schumacher, M. Packard
NOES: None.
ABSENT: None.
(SEAL)
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Attachment A
MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING
BETWEEN THE CITY OF CARLSBAD
AND THE CARLSBAD FIREFIGHTERS' ASSOCIATION, INC.
Term: January 1, 2017-December 31, 2019
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Preamble Page 1
Article 1 Recognition Page 1
Article 2 Implementation Page 1
Article 3 Term Page 1
Article 4 Renegotiation Page 1
Article 5 Retention of Benefits Page 2
Article 6 City Rights Page 2
Article 7 No Strike and No Lockout Page 2
Article 8 Compensation Adjustments Page 3
Article 9 Bereavement Leave Page 3
Article 10 Long Term Disability Page 4
Article 11 Annual Vacation Leave Page 4
Article 12 Sick Leave Accrual Page 7
Article 13 Bilingual Pay Page 8
Article 14 Linen Provision, Maintenance, and Replacement Page 8
Article 15 Flexible Benefits Program Page 8
Article 16 Holidays Page 11
Article 17 Retirement Benefits Page 11
Article 18 Provision of 1959 PERS Survivors' Benefit Page 12
Article 19 Overtime and Compensatory Time Page 12
Article 20 Flexible Work Schedules for Deputy Fire Marshal Page 14
Article 21 Americans With Disabilities Act Page 14
Article 22 Family Leave Act Page 14
Article 23 Discipline of Employee Page 15
Article 24 Grievance Procedure Page 20
Article 25 Alcohol and Drug Policy Page 23
Article 26 Authorized Agents Page 28
Article 27 Full Understanding, Modification, Waiver Page 28
Article 28 Provisions of Law Page 29
Article 29 Paramedic License Pay Page 29
Article 30 Reporting Value ofUniforms to CalPERS Page 29
Article 31 Acting Pay Page 29
Article 32 Deferred Compensation Page 30
Article 33 Leave of Absence Page 30
Article 34 Military Leave Page 34
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Article 35 Jury Duty Page 34
Article 36 Life Insurance and Voluntary Benefits Page 34
Article 37 Probationary Period Page 35
Article 38 Post-Retirement Healthcare Trust Page 35
Article 39 Outsourcing Page 35
Article 40 Survey Market Page 36
Article 41 Education Incentive Page 36
Article 42 Wellness Page 38
Appendix A Requirements to be "Certified", Serve in an "Acting" Page 39
Capacity and Apply for a Promotion
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MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING
This Memorandum of Understanding is made and entered into as of the date of formal approval
hereof by the City Council of the City of Carlsbad, by and between designated management
representatives of the City of Carlsbad (hereinafter referred to as the "city") and the designated
representatives of the Carlsbad Firefighters' Association, Inc. (hereinafter referred to as CF A or
"CF A, Inc.").
PREAMBLE
It is the purpose of this Memorandum of Understanding (hereinafter referred to as
"Memorandum") to promote and provide for harmonious relations, cooperation, and
understanding between the city management representatives and the local safety fire employees
covered under this Memorandum; to provide an orderly and equitable means of resolving any
misunderstandings or differences which may arise under this Memorandum; and to set forth the
agreement of the parties reached as a result of good faith negotiations regarding wages, hours, and
other terms and conditions of employment of the employees covered under this Memorandum,
which agreement the parties intend jointly to submit and recommend for City Council approval
and implementation. In cases where there is a conflict between this Memorandum and the Carlsbad
Fire Department Directives, this Memorandum shall prevail.
ARTICLE 1. RECOGNITION
The City of Carlsbad recognizes CF A, Inc. as the majority representative for all classifications in
this Unit, as set forth in the Petition for Recognition, submitted November 3, 1991, in accordance
with the provisions of Section 2.48.090 (1) of the Carlsbad Municipal Code.
ARTICLE 2. IMPLEMENTATION
This Memorandum constitutes a mutual recommendation to be jointly submitted to the City
Council following ratification of the Memorandum by the membership of CF A, Inc. It is agreed
that this Memorandum shall not be binding upon the parties, either in whole or in part, unless and
until the City Council acts by majority vote to formally approve and adopt this Memorandum. It
is further agreed that, if the City Council approves and adopts this Memorandum, city management
will act in a timely manner to make the changes or recommend the City Council make the changes,
in city ordinances, resolutions, rules, policies, and procedures necessary to implement this
Memorandum.
ARTICLE 3. TERM
The term of this Memorandum shall be from January 1, 2017, through December 31, 2019.
ARTICLE 4. RENEGOTIATION
In the event either party desires to meet and confer in good faith on the terms of a successor
Memorandum, that party shall serve upon the other a notice of such intent. During the term of this
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Memorandum, the parties agree to meet and confer upon request of the other party to discuss
additional changes to this Memorandum required by implementation of the HCMS payroll
software system.
ARTICLE 5. RETENTION OF BENEFITS
The employees represented by CF A, Inc., shall retain all present benefits for the term of this
agreement, as amended by this Memorandum, subject to the following provisions:
• Matters That Fall Within the Scope of Representation:
The city agrees to give advance notice and opportunity to meet and confer on the
subject of current wage levels and benefits, and other matters which fall within the
scope of representation, such as, but not limited to, material modifications to
personnel rules and Fire Department directives, before taking any action impacting
employees within the bargaining unit.
• Management Rights:
The city's decisions regarding staffing levels, station closures, layoffs,
reorganization, contracting out bargaining unit work to third parties, and furloughs
which the city may elect to utilize to address fiscal difficulties it faces now or in the
future, are management rights. Nevertheless, the city agrees to give advance notice
and the opportunity to discuss these subjects before taking any action impacting
employees within the bargaining unit.
ARTICLE 6. CITY RIGHTS
The rights ofthe city include, but are not limited to the exclusive right to determine the mission
of its constituent departments, commissions, and boards; set standards of service; determine the
procedures and standards of selection for employment and promotion; direct its employees; take
disciplinary action; relieve its employees from duty because of lack of work or for other
legitimate reasons; contract out, after meeting and conferring over decision and effects,
bargaining unit work to third parties; maintain the efficiency of governmental operations;
determine the methods, means, and personnel by which government operations are to be
conducted; determine the content of job classifications; take all necessary actions to carry out its
mission in emergencies; and exercise complete control and discretion over its organization and
the technology of performing its work.
ARTICLE 7. NO STRIKE AND NO LOCKOUT
A. No Strike. During the term of this Memorandum and in accordance with Labor Code
Section 1962, neither the employees nor any agents or representatives will instigate,
promote, sponsor, engage in, or condone any strike (including sympathy strike), slowdown,
concerted stoppage of work, sickouts, or any other intentional disruption of the operations
of the city, regardless of the reason for so doing.
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B. Penalty. If a strike occurs in violation of Article 7.A. or Labor Code Section 1962, the city
may utilize any legal remedies available to it to halt the strike. In addition, any employee
engaging in activity prohibited by Article 7 .A. or Labor Code Section 1962, or who
instigates or gives leadership to such activity, shall be subject to disciplinary action.
C. No Lockout. During the term of this Memorandum, the city will not instigate a lockout
over a dispute with the employees so long as there is no breach of Section 7 .A.
D. Association Official Responsibility. Each employee who is an officer of CF A, Inc.
occupies a position of special trust and responsibility in maintaining and bringing about
compliance with the provisions of this Article. The employees agree to inform members
of their obligations under this Memorandum and Labor Code Section 1962 and to direct
them to return to work.
E. Non-discrimination Clause. Neither city nor CF A, Inc. shall interfere with, intimidate,
restrain, coerce, or discriminate against employees covered by this Memorandum because
of exercise of rights to engage or not engage in CF A, Inc. activity or because of the exercise
of any right provided to the employees by this Memorandum.
ARTICLE 8. COMPENSATION ADJUSTMENTS
Effective January 1, 2017, all CF A represented employees will receive a salary increase based on
their classification as shown below.
• Fire Engineer, Fire Captain, Captain Specialist and Assistant Fire Marshal3.45%
• All other classifications 2.25%
Effective January 1, 2018, all CF A represented employees will receive a salary increase based on
their classification as shown below.
• Fire Engineer, Fire Captain, Captain Specialist and Assistant Fire Marshal3.3%
• All other classifications 2%
Effective January 1, 2019, all CFA represented employees will receive a two percent (2%) salary
mcrease.
Any step increases granted shall be effective on the employee's anniversary date or date of
promotion.
ARTICLE 9. BEREAVEMENT LEAVE
An employee working a 112 hours/pay period schedule may use up to two shifts ( 48 hours) of paid
leave if required to be absent from duty due to the death of a member of the employee's immediate
family. The usage ofbereavement leave, however, is limited to three consecutive days which may
or may not include a scheduled shift(s). An employee working an 80 hours/pay period schedule
may use up to three work shifts of paid leave if required to be absent from duty due to the death of
a member of the employee's immediate family. Additional time off may be authorized by the Fire
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Chief or his/her designee and charged to accrued vacation or sick leave or, when no accrued leave
is available, treated as leave without pay.
The "immediate family" shall be defined as: a spouse, domestic partner, child, grandchild, member
of immediate household, sibling, parent, or grandparent whether biological, foster, step, adopted,
or in-law. It also includes any person who has served in place of a parent to the employee, or any
person for whom the employee has served in place of a parent. The term "child" means a
biological, foster, or adopted child, a stepchild, a legal ward, a child of a domestic partner, or a
child of a person standing in loco parentis. The term "parent" means a biological, foster, or
adoptive parent, a stepparent, or a legal guardian.
The employee may be required to submit proof of the family member's death before being granted
bereavement leave.
ARTICLE 10. LONG-TERM DISABILITY
The city will contract with a mutually agreed upon insurance company to provide long term
disability insurance for all represented employees. The insurance shall provide a 30-day
benefit waiting period. The city will pay the full premium for this insurance beginning with
the first full pay period after ratification. The dollar amount paid by CF A employees for the
LTD insurance premiums between the first full pay period of calendar year 2017 and the first
full pay period after ratification will be paid to active CF A employees as a one-time taxable
(non-PERSable) cash payment in the first full pay period after ratification of this
Memorandum.
ARTICLE 11. ANNUAL VACATION LEAVE
A. Basis of Accrual
The city and CF A, Inc., agree to continue the following annual vacation leave schedule for
all employees working a 112 hours/pay period schedule:
Less than 5
5 through 9.99
10 through 10.99
11 through 11.99
12 through 12.99
13 through 14.99
15 or more
full calendar years of continuous service
full calendar years of continuous service
full calendar years of continuous service
full calendar years of continuous service
full calendar years of continuous service
full calendar years of continuous service
full calendar years of continuous service
-21 minutes/day
-32 minutes/day
-34 minutes/day
-36 minutes/day
-38 minutes/day
-40 minutes/day
-42 minutes/day
The city and CF A, Inc., agree to continue the following annual vacation leave schedule for
all employees working an 80 hours/pay period schedule:
Less than 5
5 through 9.99
10 through 10.99
11 through 11.99
full calendar years of continuous service
full calendar years of continuous service
full calendar years of continuous service
full calendar years of continuous service
4
-13 minutes/day
-20 minutes/day
-21 minutes/day
-22 minutes/day
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12
13
15
through 12.99
through 14.99
or more
full calendar years of continuous service
full calendar years of continuous service
full calendar years of continuous service
-24 minutes/day
-25 minutes/day
-26 minutes/day
Effective January 1, 2018, the annual vacation leave accrual schedule for all employees
working a 112 hours/pay period schedule will be:
Less than 3
3 through 4.99
5 through 9.99
10 through 10.99
11 through 11.99
12 through 12.99
13 through 14.99
15 or more
full calendar years of continuous service
full calendar years of continuous service
full calendar years of continuous service
full calendar years of continuous service
full calendar years of continuous service
full calendar years of continuous service
full calendar years of continuous service
full calendar years of continuous service
-21 minutes/day
-26 minutes/day
-32 minutes/day
-34 minutes/day
-36 minutes/day
-38 minutes/day
-40 minutes/day
-42 minutes/day
Effective January 1, 2018, the annual vacation leave accrual schedule for all employees
working an 80 hours/pay period schedule:
Less than 3
3 through 4.99
5 through 9.99
10 through 10.99
11 through 11.99
12 through 12.99
13 through 14.99
15 or more
full calendar years of continuous service
full calendar years of continuous service
full calendar years of continuous service
full calendar years of continuous service
full calendar years of continuous service
full calendar years of continuous service
full calendar years of continuous service
full calendar years of continuous service
-13 minutes/day
-16 minutes/day
-20 minutes/day
-21 minutes/day
-22 minutes/day
-24 minutes/day
-25 minutes/day
-26 minutes/day
Vacation leave is accrued on a daily basis. Vacation leave can be used in 15 minute increments.
Effective January 1, 2017, a CPA-represented employee who is reinstated, as defined in the
City of Carlsbad Personnel Rules and Regulations, upon reinstatement, shall resume the same
vacation accrual rate that the employee had at the time of their separation.
B. Vacation Accrual Maximum
All employees working a 112 hours/pay period schedule shall be entitled to earn and accrue
up to and including four hundred and forty-eight ( 448) hours of vacation. No employee
working a 112 hours/pay period schedule will be allowed to earn and accrue vacation hours
in excess of the four hundred and forty-eight ( 448) hour maximum.
All employees working an 80 hours/pay period schedule shall be entitled to earn and accrue
up to and including three hundred and twenty (320) hours of vacation. No employee
working an 80 hours/pay period schedule will be allowed to earn and accrue vacation hours
in excess of the three hundred and twenty (320) hour maximum .
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Department Heads will encourage the taking of accrued vacation leave. If there are unusual
circumstances that would require an employee to exceed the vacation accrual maximum,
he/she must submit a request in writing to the Fire Chief and the City Manager. The Fire
Chief and the City Manager may grant such a request if it is in the best interest of the city.
Requests will be handled on a case-by-case basis and will be considered only in extreme
circumstances.
C. Vacation Conversion
Each February, during a pay period to be determined by the City Manager or his/her
designee, all employees working a 112 hours/pay period schedule shall be allowed to
voluntarily convert up to one hundred twelve (112) hours of accrued vacation to cash,
provided that they have used at least one hundred twelve (112) hours of vacation during
the prior calendar year.
Each February, during a pay period to be determined by the City Manager or his/her
designee, all employees working an 80 hours/pay period schedule will be allowed to
voluntarily convert up to eighty (80) hours of accrued vacation to cash, provided that they
have used at least eighty (80) hours of vacation during the prior calendar year.
D. Effects of Holiday on Vacation Leave
For all employees who work an 80 hours/pay period schedule, in the event one or more
authorized municipal holidays fall within a vacation leave, such holiday shall not be
charged as vacation leave, but shall be credited as a holiday.
E. Effect of Leave of Absence on Accrual ofVacation Leave
See Article 33 for the effect of an extended leave of absence on vacation accrual.
F. Compensation for City Work During Vacation Prohibited
No person shall be permitted to work for compensation for the city in any capacity, except
compensation for mandated court appearances, during the time of his/her paid vacation
leave from city service. This clause shall not limit the city's right to recall an employee
from vacation in the event of an emergency and place him/her on regular pay status.
G. Scheduling Vacations
An employee may take his/her annual vacation leave at any time during the year, contingent
upon determination by his/her Department Head that such absence will not materially
affect the department. Each employee must consider the needs of the service when
requesting annual vacation leave. All vacation requests must be placed in Telestaff prior
to 1700 hrs the day before the leave period. When a family emergency arises which
necessitates the use of vacation time, an employee shall provide as much advance notice
as possible considering the particular circumstances.
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H. Terminal Vacation Pay
The dollar value of an employee's accrued vacation balance as of the employee's last day
on payroll shall be paid to the employee upon separation of employment at the
employee's base rate of pay at separation. When separation is caused by death of an
employee, payment shall be made to the estate of such employee or, in applicable cases,
as provided in the Probate Code of the State.
ARTICLE 12. SICK LEAVE ACCRUAL
All employees working a 112 hours/pay period schedule shall be entitled to accrue sick leave at a
rate of 25 minutes per day. All other employees shall be entitled to accrue sick leave at a rate of
16 minutes per day. Sick leave is accrued on a daily basis. Sick leave can be used in 15 minute
increments.
A. Use of Sick Leave
Sick leave shall not be considered a right which an employee may use at his/her discretion. Sick
leave shall be allowed as follows:
1. In the case of actual illness or disability.
2. Exposure to contagious disease that would jeopardize the health of others. When
sick leave is granted under these circumstances, an explanatory medical certificate
from the physician is required.
3. A pre-scheduled doctor, dental, or optometry appointment has been entered into
and allowed by Telestaff.
4. Because illness of a member of the immediate family requires constant care and no
other care is available and/or financially feasible except that of the employee.
Immediate family is defined in the Personnel Rules.
5. All leave provisions will be administered consistent with state and federal laws.
B. Proof of Illness
The Fire Chief may request a certificate issued by a licensed physician or other satisfactory
proof of illness when abuse is suspected and/ or when sick leave use is in excess of three
(3) consecutive work days. The Fire Chief may also designate a licensed physician to
conduct a physical examination, and such examination shall be conducted at city expense.
Employees shall be required to account for all hours they are requesting as sick leave via
Telestaff. Violation of sick leave privileges may result in disciplinary action and/or loss
of pay when, in the opinion of the Fire Chief, the employee has abused such privileges.
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C. Effect of Leave of Absence
See Article 33 for the effect of an extended leave of absence on sick leave accrual.
ARTICLE 13. BILINGUAL PAY
The city will provide additional compensation to an employee, designated by the Human
Resources Department, in the amount of $40.00 per pay period for the performance of bilingual
skills.
In order to qualify for and receive bilingual pay, employees must pass a bilingual proficiency test
in the Spanish language as determined appropriate by the city. The city reserves the right to include
other languages as eligible for bilingual pay at some future date. This article shall not be subject
to the grievance procedure.
ARTICLE 14. LINEN PROVISION, MAINTENANCE, AND REPLACEMENT
The city agrees to provide one set of bed linen and two towels per person for all personnel working
a 112 hours/pay period work schedule. To assist in maintenance, all fire stations will be equipped
with washing machines and dryers; shift personnel will be responsible for maintaining their own
linens and towels.
The city agrees to replace linens and towels on an "as needed" basis, with a maximum replacement
of once per calendar year.
ARTICLE 15. FLEXIBLE BENEFITS PROGRAM
Employees represented by the CF A, Inc. will participate in a flexible benefits program
which includes medical insurance, dental insurance, vision insurance, accidental death and
dismemberment insurance (AD&D) and flexible spending accounts (FSAs).
A. Medical Insurance
During the term of this Agreement, represented employees will be covered by the Public
Employees' Medical and Hospital Care Act (PEMHCA) and will be eligible to participate
in the CalPERS Health Program. The city will pay on behalf of all employees covered by
this agreement and their eligible dependents and those retirees designated in Section D of
this Article, the minimum amount per month required under Government Code Section
22892 of the PEMHCA for medical insurance through the California Public Employees'
Retirement System (CalPERS).
If electing to emoll for medical benefits, the employee must select one medical plan from
the variety of medical plans offered through CalPERS. Effective the first full pay period
following City Council approval of this Memorandum, prospectively only, the city shall
contribute the following monthly amounts (called Benefits Credits) on behalf of each active
employee and eligible dependents toward the payment of 1) medical premiums under the
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CalPERS health program, 2) city-sponsored dental, vision or AD&D premiums or 3)
contributions in the name ofthe employee to the city's flexible spending account(s):
(a) For employees with "employee only" coverage, the city shall contribute five
hundred ninety-seven ($597) per month that shall include the mandatory
payments to CalPERS. If the actual total premiums exceed the city's total
contributions, the employee will pay the difference.
(b) For employees with "employee plus one dependent" coverage, the city shall
contribute one thousand one hundred twenty-two ($1,122) (increased from
$1,037) per month that shall include the mandatory payments to CalPERS. If the
actual total premiums exceed the city's total contributions, the employee will pay
the difference.
(c) For employees with "employee plus two or more dependents" coverage, the city
shall contribute one thousand four hundred seventy-two ($1,472) (increased from
$1 ,240) per month that shall include the mandatory payments to CalPERS. If the
actual total premiums exceed the city's total contributions, the employee will pay
the difference.
(d) To provide CFA members with the value ofthis increase in Benefits Credits for
the pay periods that include the period between January 1, 2017 and ratification
of this Memorandum by the City Council, the City shall, with payroll, for the first
full pay period after ratification of this Memorandum by the City Council, make
a one-time taxable (non-PERSable) cash payment equal to the increase in
Benefits Credits for CF A members employed by the City on that date. The total
cash amount will depend on the employee's medical coverage level as of the pay
period that includes January 1, 2017 and the number of payroll periods in 2017
that occur between January 1, 2017 and ratification ofthis Memorandum.
Effective the pay periods that include January 1, 2018 and January 1, 2019-City monthly
benefit credits associated with each coverage level will be set to dollar amounts that equate
to 80% of the average health (medical, dental and vision) premium for Employee,
Employee Plus One and Family coverage levels, rounded to the nearest whole dollar based
on the premiums that will take effect on January 1 of the respective calendar year.
If the amount contributed by the city (Benefits Credits) exceeds the cost of the medical
insurance purchased by the employee, the "unused credits" will be applied towards the cost
of the employee's purchase of dental insurance, vision insurance, AD&D insurance, and
contributions to a healthcare or dependent care flexible spending account (FSA).
Remaining unused Benefits Credits will be paid to the employee in cash and reported as
taxable income.
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B. Dental Insurance, Vision Insurance and Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D)
Insurance
Employees may elect to purchase or waive city-sponsored dental, vision or AD&D
insurance plans. If the decision is made to purchase one or more of these insurance plans,
an employee may purchase them at any level of coverage offered by the plan.
C. Retirees
Each retired employee who was a member of this bargaining unit is covered by the Public
Employees' Medical and Hospital Care Act and is eligible to participate in the California
Public Employees' Retirement System (CalPERS) Health Program. Represented
employees who retire from the city, either service or disability, shall be eligible to continue
their enrollment in the CalPERS Health Program when they retire, provided that the
individual is enrolled or eligible to enroll in a CalPERS medical plan at the time of
separation from employment and their effective date of retirement is within 120 days of
separation. The city will contribute the minimum amount per month required under
Government Code Section 22892 of the PEMHCA toward the cost of each retiree's
enrollment in the CalPERS Health Program.
Employees who retire from the city, either service or disability, shall be eligible to continue
to participate in the city's dental and/or vision insurance programs. The cost of such dental
and/or vision insurance for the retiree and eligible dependents shall be borne solely by the
retiree. The city shall not charge the COBRA administrative cost to the retirees. A retiree
who does not choose continued coverage upon retirement, or drops coverage, is only
eligible to return to the city's dental and vision insurance program during open enrollment
periods.
The city will invoice the retiree for his/her monthly premiums for dental and/or vision
insurance and the retiree must keep such payments current to ensure continued coverage.
D. Opt Out Provision
CF A represented employees who do not wish to participate in the CalPERS Health
Program will have the choice of waiving the city's medical insurance, provided they can
show that they are covered under another group insurance plan.
Employees who waive city-sponsored medical insurance will be given a reduced city
contribution amount (Benefits Credits) of two hundred sixty-seven ($267) per month to be
used toward the purchase of dental insurance, vision insurance, AD&D insurance or as a
contribution to a flexible spending account. The city contribution amount of two hundred
sixty-seven ($267) per month will be granted to any employee who elects to waive the
CalPERS Health Program and who provides proof of other medical insurance coverage,
regardless of the employee's level of coverage (employee only, employee plus one
dependent, employee plus two or more dependents).
Effective the pay period that includes January 1, 2018, the City monthly benefit credits
associated with waiving medical coverage will be set equal to 50% of the benefit credits
associated with Employee Only medical coverage level.
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Unused Benefits Credits will be paid to the employee in cash and reported as taxable
mcome.
ARTICLE 16. HOLIDAYS
The city shall observe the following scheduled paid holidays, consistent with the annual holiday
schedule published by the Human Resources Department:
New Year's Day
Martin Luther King Jr.'s Birthday
President's Birthday
Memorial Day
Independence Day
Labor Day
Columbus Day
Veteran's Day
Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving Friday
Christmas Day
Employees working a 112 hours/pay period schedule shall be compensated for twelve (12) hours
ofholiday pay (using a base salary rate that excludes additional pays) on the day the holiday occurs.
See Article 33 for the effect of an extended leave of absence on holiday pay.
Employees working an 80 hours/pay period schedule will observe the scheduled paid holidays
listed above. Only employees who are on paid status on their scheduled work day immediately
before a holiday shall be entitled to the paid holiday.
ARTICLE 17. RETIREMENT BENEFITS
17.1 The city has contracted with CalPERS for the following retirement benefits:
• Safety Tier 1 -(employees entering safety membership for the first time prior to October
4, 2010)-The retirement formula shall be 3%@ 50; single highest year final
compensation.
• Safety Tier 2 -(employees entering safety membership for the first time on or after
October 4, 2010)-The retirement formula shall be 2%@ 50; three year average final
compensation.
Employees who are "New Members" as defined by the California Public Employees' Pension
Reform Act of2013 (PEPRA) (e.g., an employee hired on or after 1/1/2013 who has never been
a CalPERS member or member of a reciprocal system or who has had a break in CalPERS
service of at least 6 months or more) will constitute a third tier and be subject to all the
applicable PEPRA provisions, which include but are not limited to the following retirement
benefits:
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• Safety Tier 3-The retirement formula shall be 2.7%@ 57; three year average final
compensation.
17 .2. Employee Retirement Contribution
The employee retirement contribution will be made on a pre-tax basis by implementing
provisions of section 414(h)(2) of the Internal Revenue Code (IRC).
Employees shall make the following employee retirement contributions through payroll
deductions:
• Tier 1 and Tier 2 safety employees shall pay all of the employee retirement
contribution (9% ).
• Tier 3 safety employees shall pay one half of the normal cost rate associated with the
3rd tier.
17.3. If the Employer Paid Member Contributions (EPMC) ever is greater than zero, the city
will report the value of the EPMC as additional (special) compensation to CalPERS for all local
fire employees designated as "classic CalPERS members."
ARTICLE 18. PROVISION OF 1959 PERS SURVIVORS' BENEFIT
The city agrees to provide the Fourth Level of the 1959 Survivors' Benefit.
ARTICLE 19. OVERTIME AND COMPENSATORY TIME
In determining an employee's eligibility for overtime, paid leaves shall be included in the total
hours worked. Excluded from the total hours worked are duty free lunches, travel time to and from
work (except for emergency call-back), and time spent conducting bona fide volunteer activities.
There shall be no pyramiding of overtime. Hours worked by an employee in any workday or
workweek on which premium rates have once been allowed shall not be used again in any other
overtime calculation other than computing total actual hours worked.
Time worked shall be computed by rounding to the nearest quarter of an hour.
Definition of Fire Suppression and Fire Prevention Employees
Employees in the classifications listed below are considered Fire Suppression Employees.
Firefighter
Paramedic Firefighter
Fire Engineer
Fire Captain
Captain Specialist
Employees in all other classifications represented by CF A, Inc. are considered Fire Prevention
Employees.
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A. EMPLOYEES WORKING A 112 HOUR/PAY PERIOD SCHEDULE:
1. Overtime
The City of Carlsbad may elect to use a 24-day work cycle for fire suppression
employees under the 7(k) exemptions contained in the Fair Labor Standards Act.
The "work period" shall be twenty-four (24) days in length. The "work schedule"
is to be based on a fifty-six (56) hour average workweek. Premium pay, one and
one-half (1 112) times the normal rate of pay, shall be paid for all hours in excess
of the FLSA guidelines in each work period. (The FLSA guidelines permit 182
hours per 24 day work period to be paid at the regular rate of pay for fire
suppression employees.) Therefore, each fire suppression employee on a 112
hour/pay period schedule (or on a modified duty IOD-related work schedule) will
earn six (6) hours of premium pay in each biweekly pay period.
In addition, any employee required to perform in excess of an employee's normal
scheduled shift shall receive compensation at the rate of time and one-half his/her
regular rate of pay.
The regular rate of pay shall be calculated in conformance with the FLSA.
B. EMPLOYEES WORKING AN 80 HOURS/PAY PERIOD SCHEDULE:
1. Overtime
The official 7-day FLSA work week for employees on a 9/80 Friday to Friday shift
begins four ( 4) hours after the regularly scheduled starting time for their Friday
shift and ends one hundred sixty eight (168) hours later (at four (4) hours after the
regularly scheduled starting time for their Friday shift). For all others who work an
80 hour/pay period schedule the FLSA work week is from Monday at 12:00 a.m.
to Sunday at 11:59 p.m.
Any employee required to perform in excess of 40 hours in their 7 day FLSA work
week or in excess of an employee's normal scheduled day shall receive
compensation at the rate of time and one-half his/her regular rate of pay except as
outlined in Section 3 below.
The regular rate of pay shall be calculated in conformance with the FLSA.
2. Compensatory Time
In lieu of receiving overtime pay pursuant to Section 1 above, a Fire Prevention
employee may elect, subject to department approval, to receive compensatory time
off on a time and one-half basis. No employee shall accrue more than 80 hours of
such compensatory time. Should any employee exceed 80 hours of accrued
compensatory time, he/she shall be paid at time and one-half his/her regular rate.
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An employee may use such compensatory time within a reasonable period after
making the request if the use of compensatory time does not unduly disrupt the
operations of the department.
An employee may elect to "cash out" any portion of his/her accrued compensatory
time at his/her regular rate of pay in any pay period. The employee shall indicate
the number of hours to be cashed out on his/her timesheet..
3. Request for Temporary Shift Adjustment (Flex Time)
An employee on an 80-hour shift may request that the employee's normal workday
be temporarily altered in order to accumulate a credit of work hours that may be
used to take time off during the employee's FLSA work week without loss of pay.
If the request is approved by management, pay for hours worked during this
temporary shift adjustment shall be paid at the straight time rate even if the
employee's hours worked exceed his/her normal scheduled shift on that day.
Overtime will still be paid if the employee works in excess of 40 hours during
his/her FLSA work week.
ARTICLE 20. FLEXIBLE WORK SCHEDULES
Employees hired by divisions currently operating on an alternative work schedule shall be subject
to having their daily work schedule changed at the sole discretion of the department. Such changes
include, but are not limited to, a) number of days/hours to be worked on a daily basis and in a
payroll period; b) normal days off; and c) starting/ending times of assigned shifts. Suppression
employees temporarily assigned to light duty will be assigned to the 9/80 work schedule referenced
below or a traditional 5/40 work schedule. This article shall not be subject to the grievance
procedure.
9/80 Alternative Work Schedule:
The parties acknowledge that they met and conferred in good faith over the terms and conditions
for implementation of a 9/80 work schedule. The result of that meeting and conferring is reflected
in the City of Carlsbad's Administrative Order No. 57, by which the parties will control
implementation of the 9/80 schedule. This article shall not be subject to the grievance procedure.
ARTICLE 21. AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT
The parties acknowledge the applicability of the Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA) and
intend to apply and implement this MOU so as to comply with the ADA. The parties agree to
consult if compliance with the ADA may require modifying the provisions of this MOU.
ARTICLE 22. FAMILY LEAVE ACT
The parties acknowledge the applicability of the Family Leave Act (Act) and intend to apply and
implement this MOU so as to comply with the Act. The parties agree to consult if compliance
with the Act may require modifying the provisions of this MOU.
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ARTICLE 23. DISCIPLINE OF AN EMPLOYEE
23.1 Authority-Full authority for discipline is retained by the city. The city may discipline a
regular employee for just cause. In appropriate cases the city will use progressive
disciplinary practices.
23.2 Representation-An employee attending any investigatory or fact-finding meeting which
may result directly in discipline, reduction in pay, suspension, demotion or discharge
shall be allowed representation.
23.3 Grounds for Discipline -The city has the authority to impose appropriate discipline upon
any represented employee for cause. Discipline shall be commensurate with the
seriousness of the offense and with consideration of the employee's prior performance
and disciplinary record. Grounds for discipline may include but are not limited to the
following:
(1) Fraud in securing employment including untruthfulness, misrepresentation or
omission of information.
(2) Incompetence, neglect of duty, willful disobedience, insubordination, tardiness,
working unauthorized overtime, public disclosure of privileged information or
dishonesty.
(3) Failure to maintain certification and licenses required by law or the Fire
Department.
( 4) Being under the influence of alcohol or intoxicating drugs while on duty.
(5) Unauthorized absence without leave.
(6) Criminal conviction having some relevance to the job.
(7) Intentionally being discourteous to the public.
(8) Unauthorized use of or neglect of city property.
(9) Abuse of sick leave.
(1 0) Unauthorized outside employment that constitutes a conflict of interest.
(11) Acceptance of a gift or gratuity that constitutes a willful conflict of interest.
(12) Falsification of any city report or record.
(13) Willful violation of any of the provisions of the City Code, ordinances,
resolutions or any rules, regulations or policies which may be prescribed by the
City Council, City Manager, Fire Chief, or supervisor.
(14) Political activities precluded by State or Federal law.
(15) Other acts that are incompatible with service to the public.
(16) Failure to respond to questions or otherwise fail to participate during an
investigation conducted by the city or its agents.
23.4 Firefighter Bill of Rights Procedures -The following appeals procedures are adopted
pursuant to Government Code Section 3254.5 of the California Firefighter Procedural
Bill of Rights Act (FBOR) and shall apply to any administrative appeal of a punitive
action that is required to be afforded to a firefighter under the Act.
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Prior to taking punitive action involving discipline, suspension without pay, reduction in
pay, demotion or discharge, the employee shall be given notice of the action to be taken,
the effective date for such action, the evidence or materials upon which the action is
based, and notified of his/her right to be represented by an attorney or other
representative at further proceedings.
23.5 Pre-Discipline Process-The employee will be given an opportunity to respond to the Fire
Chief either orally or in writing, provided the employee requests the opportunity within
seven (7) calendar days of the notice of the intended action.
If the employee or his/her designated representative requests the right to respond to the
proposed punitive action, imposition of proposed punitive action shall be deferred until
after the response is received by the Fire Chief.
It is the Fire Chiefs responsibility to coordinate the scheduling of the conference within
fourteen (14) consecutive days of the employee's request. The Fire Chief or designee
shall be responsible for receiving the employee's and/or his/her representative's response
to the proposed discipline. The conference shall be conducted informally and shall be
limited to the presentation of information by and through the employee and/or his/her
representative in response to the charges and allegations set forth in the notice of
proposed discipline.
In the event the employee is unable to respond to the charges within the time permitted
and demonstrates the reasonableness of a need for a continuance, the presiding officer
may grant a continuance of up to an additional five (5) calendar days.
The time limits described herein are essential and may only be modified or enlarged by
mutual consent of both the employee and the Fire Chief or his/her designee.
The above process will occur prior to the imposition of the discipline.
23.6 Notice of Discipline-After conclusion of the pre-disciplinary conference and within 30
days of the department's final decision, but not less than forty-eight (48) hours prior to
imposing discipline, the Fire Chief shall notify the employee in writing of the nature and
extent of the discipline, if any, and the time of commencement thereof. The notice shall
also contain a statement of charges which shall set forth the acts or omissions with which
the employee is charged in order that the employee will be able to prepare his/her
defense. Also, the notice shall specify the city rules, regulations, policies and procedures
which the employee is alleged to have violated.
The notice of discipline shall also advise the employee of his/her right to request an
appeal hearing by filing a Notice of Appeal as provided under section 23.7 below. The
Notice of Appeal must be filed within 15 days after service upon the employee of the
Notice of Discipline. Failure to request an appeal hearing within the 15 day period, will
constitute waiver of the employee's right of appeal. The Notice of Discipline shall be
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served personally on the employee with a proof of service noticed and retained by the
department.
23.7 Right to Appeal -An employee has the right to appeal punitive action according to the
appeal procedure as set out below. Written notice of discipline shall inform and remind
the disciplined employee of this right. A probationary employee (entry level or
promotional) rejected during the probationary period shall not be entitled to appeal such
rejection via the appeals process.
23.8 Appeal of Punitive Action Not Involving Discharge, Demotion, Reduction in Pay or
Suspension
The City shall follow the Firefighter Procedural Bill of Rights except where hereinafter
noted. The CF A waives the formal appeal of punitive action not involving discharge,
demotion, reduction in pay or suspension (e.g. written reprimands) and agrees to the
following procedures in which the Fire Chief, or his/her designee, shall issue a binding
decision for such discipline.
A. Notice of Appeal-Within seven (7) calendar days of receipt of the notice of discipline, a
regular employee shall notify the Fire Chief in writing of the employee's intent to appeal
the punitive action. The notice of appeal shall specify the action being appealed and the
substantive and procedural grounds for the appeal.
B. Presiding Officer -In an informal hearing, the Fire Chief or his/her designee shall be the
presiding officer. If the Fire Chief or designee cannot serve as the hearing officer because
of actual bias, prejudice or interest as defined by Government Code § 11425.40, then the
City Manager or his/her designee shall serve as the Presiding Officer. In such cases, the
determination of the City Manager shall be final and binding.
C. Burden of Proof-The city shall bear the burden of proof at the informal hearing. Based
upon a preponderance of the evidence, the Department shall show that the action taken
against the employee was reasonable according to the FBOR.
D. Conduct of Hearing
1. The formal rules of evidence do not apply, although the Presiding Officer shall have
discretion to exclude evidence which is incompetent, irrelevant or cumulative, or the
presentation of which will otherwise consume undue time.
2. The parties may present opening statements.
3. The parties may present evidence through documents and testimony. Any witnesses
shall testify under oath.
4. Unless the punitive action involves a loss of compensation, the parties shall not be
entitled to confront and cross-examine witnesses.
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5. Following the presentation of evidence, if any, the parties may submit oral and/or
written closing arguments for consideration by the ~residing Officer.
E. Recording ofthe Hearing-All hearings may be recorded. If the punitive action involves
the loss of compensation, then the hearing shall be electronically recorded with both
parties receiving a copy of the record.
F. Representation-The firefighter may be represented by an association representative or
attorney ofhis or her choice at all stages of the proceedings. All costs associated with
such representation shall be borne by the firefighter.
G. Decision-The written decision shall be served in person to the firefighter when practical.
The firefighter shall acknowledge receipt in writing and shall be informed that the time
within which judicial review must be sought is governed by Code of Civil Procedure
§ 1094.6. In the event the decision cannot be delivered in person, the decision will be
delivered to the employee and his/her attorney or representative by first class mail,
postage prepaid, accompanied by an affidavit or certificate of mailing, and shall advise
the firefighter that the time within which judicial review of the decision may be sought.
23.9 Appeal Procedure for any Punitive Action Involving Discharge, Demotion, Reduction of
Pay or Suspension
A formal appeal procedure shall be available for a disciplinary action involving
discharge, demotion, reduction in pay or suspension of more than five days. The
administrative appeal shall be conducted in accordance with Chapter 5 (commencing
with Section 11500) ofPart 1 ofDivision 3 of Title 2 ofthe California Government
Code. The city will bear all administrative costs associated with a formal appeal of
discipline and the subsequent hearing: including the presiding officer, court reporter and
transcription costs, if any. The employee or employee organization will be responsible for
the cost of his or her own representation or attorney fees and preparation documents.
A. Notice of Discipline as Accusation-The final notice of discipline which may be issued
at the conclusion of any pre-disciplinary procedures shall serve as the Accusation as
described in Government Code§§ 11500, et seq. The notice shall be prepared and served
in conformity with the requirements of Government Code §§11500, et seq.
1. If, after investigation and any pre-disciplinary response or procedure, the fire
department or city decides to impose discipline, the department or the city shall
notify the firefighter in writing of its decision to impose discipline within thirty
(30) days of its decision, but not less than 48 hours prior to imposing the
discipline.
2. The notice shall be prepared and served within the timeframes specified in
Government Code Section 3254( d) and in conformity with the requirements of
Government Code §§11500, et seq. A copy of Chapter 5 (commencing with
Section 11500) ofPart 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 ofthe California Government
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Code shall be provided to the firefighter concurrently with the notice of
discipline.
B. Burden of Proof-The burdens of proof and production of evidence shall be borne by
the city. The standard of proof shall be by a preponderance of the evidence.
C. Evidence-Rules of evidence shall comply with Chapter 5, Section 11513 ofthe
Government Code.
D. The appeal proceedings shall be reported by a stenographic reporter. However, upon
the consent of all the parties, the proceedings may be reported electronically.
E. The formal appeal shall be presided over by an administrative law judge on staff of
the State Office of Administrative Hearings, hereafter referred to as the "ALJ". The
ALJ shall preside at the appeal hearing, rule on the admission and exclusion of
evidence and determine and rule on all matters of law both procedural and
substantive. In conducting the appeal hearing the ALJ shall follow the provisions set
forth above.
F. Within thirty (30) days after the case is submitted to him or her, the ALJ shall prepare
a proposed written decision to be submitted to the City Manager. Within 100 days of
receipt by the City Manager of the ALI's proposed decision, the City Manager may
take any of the following actions:
(a) Adopt the proposed decision in its entirety.
(b) Reduce or otherwise mitigate the proposed penalty and adopt the balance of the
proposed decision.
(c) Make technical or other minor changes in the proposed decision and adopt it as
the decision. Action by the City Manager under this paragraph is limited to a
clarifying change or a change of a similar nature that does not affect the factual or
legal basis of the proposed decision.
(d) Reject the proposed decision and refer the case to the same ALJ if reasonably
available, otherwise to another ALJ, to take additional evidence. If the case is
referred to the ALJ pursuant to this subparagraph, he or she shall prepare a revised
proposed decision based on the additional evidence and the transcript and other
papers that are part of the record of the prior appeal hearing. A copy of the revised
proposed decision shall be furnished decision shall be served to each party and his
or her attorney.
(e) Reject the proposed decision, and decide the case upon the record, including the
transcript, or upon an agreed statement of the parties, with or without taking
additional evidence. By stipulation of the parties the City Manager may decide the
case upon the record without including the transcript.
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(f) The City Manager's decision will be reduced to writing and shall be final and
binding on the parties. The City Manager's written decision shall be served on the
parties in accordance with Code of Civil Procedure section 1094.6 Government
Code 11518 and the decision shall be subject to judicial review pursuant to Code of
Civil Procedure section 1 094.5/Government Code.
ARTICLE 24. GRIEVANCE PROCEDURE
24.1 A grievance is an allegation made by an employee that the employee has been
damaged or denied a benefit by the city due to misapplication or a mistaken
interpretation of a specific provision of this Agreement, the city's Personnel Rules
or, effective no later than January 1, 2009, any existing Fire Department Directive
which falls within the subject matter contained in the scope of bargaining set forth in
the Meyers, Milias Brown Act.
24.2 Reviewable and Non-Reviewable Grievances
24.2.1
24.2.2
To be reviewable under this procedure a grievance must:
(a) Concern matters or incidents that have occurred.
(b) Result from an act or omission by management regarding
working conditions or other matters contained in this
Agreement over which the Fire Chief has control.
(c) Arise out of a specific situation, act, or acts which result in
damage to the employee.
(d) Arise out of a misinterpretation or misapplication of this
Agreement.
A grievance is not reviewable under this procedure:
(a) If it is a matter which would require a modification of a policy
established by City Council or by law;
(b) Is reviewable under some other administrative procedure
and/or rules of the City of Carlsbad (See, e.g., Article 24
Discipline), such as:
(1) Applications for changes in title, job classification, or
salary.
(2) Appeals from formal disciplinary proceeding.
(3) Appeals from work performance evaluations.
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24.3 Special Grievance Procedure Provisions: The following special provisions apply to
the grievance procedure.
24.3.1
24.3.2
24.3.3
24.3.4
24.3.5
24.3.6
24.3.7
24.3.8
24.3.9
Procedure for Presentation: In presenting a grievance, an employee
shall follow the sequence and the procedure outlined in Section 25.4 of
this procedure.
Prompt Presentation: The employee shall discuss the grievance with an
immediate supervisor promptly after (i.e., when grievant knew or should
have known) the act or omission of management caused the grievance.
Prescribed Form: The written grievance shall be submitted on a form
prescribed by the Human Resources Director for this purpose.
Statement of Grievance: The grievance shall contain a statement of:
(a) The specific facts or actions, including dates, which constitute the
basis for the grievance.
(b) The article that was misapplied or misinterpreted.
(c) The damage suffered by the employee.
(d) The relief sought.
Employee Representative: The employee may choose someone as a
representative at any step in the procedure. No person hearing a
grievance need recognize more than one representative for any one time,
unless he/she so desires.
Interested Parties: Interested parties may provide information during
the hearing of the grievance at any step of the grievance procedure.
Handled During Working Hours: Whenever possible, grievances will
be handled during regularly scheduled working hours.
Extension of Time: The time limits within which action must be taken
or a decision made as specified in this procedure may be extended by
mutual written consent of the parties involved. A statement of the
duration of such extension of time must be signed by both parties
involved at the step to be extended.
Consolidation of Grievances: If the grievance involves a group of
employees or if a number of employees file separate grievances on the
same matter, the grievances may be handled as a single grievance.
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24.3.10
24.3.11
Settlement: Any grievance shall be considered settled at the completion
of any step if the grievant is satisfied or if the grievant does not appeal
the matter to a higher authority within the prescribed time.
Reprisal: The grievance procedure is intended to assure a grieving
employee the right to present a grievance without fear of disciplinary
action or reprisal, provided the provisions of the grievance procedure
are observed. Copies of grievance forms will not be placed in employee
personnel records but will be maintained in separate files in the Human
Resources Department.
24.4 Grievance Procedure Steps: The following procedure shall be followed by an
employee submitting a grievance for consideration and action.
24.4.1
24.4.2
24.4.3
24.4.4
Discussion With Supervisor: The employee shall discuss the grievance
with the employee's immediate supervisor informally. Within seven (7)
calendar days, the supervisor shall give a decision to the employee
verbally.
Step 1 : If the employee and the supervisor cannot reach an agreement
to resolve the grievance, the employee may within seven (7) calendar
days present the grievance in writing to the supervisor. The supervisor
shall memorialize the prior verbal decision on the grievance and present
the grievance to the next-level supervisor within seven (7) calendar
days.
The next-level supervisor shall hear the grievance and shall give a
written decision to the employee within seven (7) calendar days after
receiving the grievance. This portion of this step shall be repeated as
necessary until the next-level supervisor is a Division Chief.
Step 2: If the employee and the next-level supervisor cannot reach an
agreement to resolve the grievance, the employee may within seven (7)
calendar days present the grievance in writing to the Fire Chief. The
Fire Chief shall hear the grievance and shall give the written decision to
the employee within seven (7) calendar days after receiving the
gnevance.
Step 3: If the employee and Fire Chief cannot reach an agreement as to
the solution of the grievance, the employee may file a written request
with the Human Resources Director, within seven (7) calendar days, to
have the grievance heard by a Hearing Officer selected via the process
described in Section 25.4.7. The grievance shall also be presented to
the Assistant City Manager who may conduct a meeting with the
grievant and/or CF A representative to identify and clarify disputed
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24.4.5
24.4.6
24.4.7
issues and attempt to resolve the grievance prior to presentation of the
grievance to the Hearing Officer.
Step 4: If the matter is not otherwise resolved, the Hearing Officer shall,
within thirty (30) calendar days after receipt of the grievance, hear the
grievance and render an advisory opinion to the City Manager. The City
Manager shall, within fourteen (14) calendar days after receipt of the
advisory opinion, notify the employee of the final action.
Any of the above steps may be waived by mutual agreement of the
parties.
The employee or employee organization and the city agree that the
advisory hearing will be conducted before a hearing officer selected by
the parties from a list provided by the California State Mediation and
Conciliation Service. If the parties cannot mutually agree on the hearing
officer they will use a strikeout procedure using a list of seven names
provided by the California State Mediation and Conciliation Service.
The appellant will have the prerogative of striking the first name.
All administrative costs associated with the cost of a grievance and the
subsequent hearing; including the hearing officer, court reporter and
transcription cost, if any, will be shared equally between the city and the
Carlsbad Firefighters' Association. In the case that the Carlsbad
Firefighters' Association does not support the grievance continuing to
the advisory hearing by a hearing officer, all administrative costs
associated with the cost of a grievance and the subsequent hearing;
including the hearing officer, court reporter and transcription cost, if
any, will be shared equally between the city and the employee.
The employee or employee organization will be responsible for the cost
of his or her own representation or attorney fees and preparation of
documents.
ARTICLE 25. ALCOHOL AND DRUG POLICY
I. POLICY
It is the policy of the City of Carlsbad to provide, for its employees, a work
environment free from the effects of drugs and alcohol consistent with the directives
of the Drug Free Workplace Act. The City of Carlsbad agrees to use a clinical
laboratory which is certified by the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), now
known as the Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services Administration
(SAMHSA). All procedures and protocols for collection, chain of custody and testing
will be conducted consistent with standards required under SAMHSA certification.
This policy is intended to accomplish that objective.
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A. Definitions-As Used in This Policy:
1. "Drug" means any substance which produces a physical, mental,
emotional or behavioral change in the user, including but not limited to,
prescription medications, heroin, cocaine, morphine and its derivatives,
P.C.P., methadone, barbiturates, amphetamines, methamphetamines,
alcohol, marijuana, and other cannabinoids.
2. "Workplace" means any site where city-assigned work is performed,
including city premises, city vehicles or other premises or vehicles,
while city-assigned work is being conducted, or within a reasonable
time thereafter.
3. "Reasonable suspicion" means a standard for evidence or other
indication of impairment of normal physical or mental skills by alcohol
or drugs where such impairment could negatively affect work
performance or could pose a threat to public or employee safety.
B. Employee Responsibilities
1. As a condition of employment, employees shall:
a. not engage in the unlawful manufacture, distribution,
dispensation, possession or use of alcohol or drugs nor be under
the influence of alcohol or drugs in the workplace or while on-call;
b. submit to an alcohol and drug analysis and remain on the premises
when requested to do so by city management, acting pursuant to
this policy, or by law enforcement personnel;
c. notify the city of any conviction under a criminal drug statute
(including any pleas of nolo contendere), if such conviction was
based on a violation which occurred in the workplace, no later than
five days after such conviction; (notification under this subsection
does not relieve an employee from the disciplinary consequences
of the conduct upon which a criminal conviction is based); and
d. abide by all terms ofthis policy.
2. Employees must notify their supervisors when taking any medication or
drugs, prescription or non-prescription (over-the-counter medications),
which may interfere with safe or effective performance of their duties
or operation of city equipment.
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3. Off-duty involvement with any controlled substance including, but not
limited to manufacture, distribution, dispensing, possession, use or any
conviction under a criminal drug statute whose scope and employment
are relevant to city employment may result in disciplinary action up to
and including termination if there is relevant nexus between such off-
duty involvement and the employee's employment with the city,
consistent with the legal requirements for disciplinary due process.
C. Employer Searches
For the purpose of enforcing this policy and maintaining a drug-free
workplace, the city reserves the right to search, with notice to the employee
or if no prior notice, in the employee's presence, all work areas and property
in which the city maintains full or joint control with the employee, including
but not limited to city vehicles, desks, lockers, file cabinets, and
bookshelves. These areas remain part of the workplace context even if the
employee has placed personal items in them. Employees are cautioned
against storing personal belongings in work areas under full or joint city
control since such work areas may be subject to investigation and/or search
under this policy. Employees shall have no expectation of privacy in these
areas, locations or properties.
Employer searches shall occur when there is a determination of "reasonable
suspicion" as defined herein. Such searches shall be conducted by persons
having supervisory and/or other legal authority to conduct such searches.
Searches will not normally occur without concurrence of more than one
supervisor.
If the FBOR (Government code section 3259) is applicable to a particular
search, then the city will comply with the Act notwithstanding anything to
the contrary in this article. For example, the city may conduct searches
without notice to the employee or without the employee being present, if a
valid search warrant has been obtained. The employee may also consent to
a search.
Nothing herein shall prevent the city from taking appropriate action if there
is an inadvertent discovery of evidence of drug or alcohol use.
D. Consequences of Violation of Policy
1. Failure to abide by the terms of this policy shall be grounds for
disciplinary action, up to and including termination.
2. In addition to any disciplinary action, an employee who fails to abide
by this policy may also be directed or allowed to satisfactorily
participate in an approved alcohol or substance abuse assistance or
rehabilitation program.
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II.
E. Federal Motor Carrier Safety Improvement Act of 1999 and DOT
regulations
The parties acknowledge that the Federal Motor Carrier Safety
Improvement Act of 1999 (see Attachment B) and the California Vehicle
Code apply to unit members. The parties shall comply with the regulations
developed by the Department of Transportation to enforce the Act.
DRUG AND ALCOHOL ANALYSIS
A. Pre-employment Drug and Alcohol Analysis
1. Prior to receiving an offer of employment, an otherwise successful
candidate must submit to a drug and alcohol analysis. At the city's
discretion, this analysis may be in the form of "breathalizer," urine, or
blood analysis.
2. Persons whose results are positive for either drugs or alcohol will be
rejected for city employment.
B. Employee Drug and Alcohol Analysis
1. If a manager or supervisor of the city has reasonable suspicion that an
employee is under the influence of drugs or alcohol while in the
workplace or subject to duty, the employee shall be:
a. Prevented from engaging in other work; and
b. Required to submit to a drug and alcohol analysis. At the city's
discretion, this analysis may be in the form of "breathalizer,"
urine, or blood analysis.
c. An employee may also be required to remain on the premises for
a reasonable time until arrangements can be made to transport the
employee to his or her home.
2. Some examples of "reasonable suspicion" as defined in Section I.A.3.
include, but are not limited to, the following, when confirmed by more
than one person having supervisory authority:
a. slurred speech.
b. alcohol odor on breath;
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Page 349
c. unsteady walking or movement not related to pnor InJury or
disability;
d. an accident involving city property having no obvious causal
explanation other than possible employee responsibility;
e. physical or verbal behaviors that are disruptive, non-responsive,
unusual for that employee or otherwise inappropriate to the
workplace situation;
f. attributable possession of alcohol or drugs;
g. information obtained from a reliable person with personal
knowledge that would lead a reasonably prudent supervisor to
believe that an employee is under the influence of alcohol or
drugs;
3. Refusal to remain on the premises or to submit to a drug and alcohol
analysis when requested to do so by city management or by law
enforcement officers shall constitute insubordination and shall be
grounds for discipline, up to and including termination.
4. A drug and alcohol analysis may test for the presence of any drug which
could impair an employee's ability to effectively and safely perform the
functions of his or her job.
5. A positive result from a drug and alcohol analysis may result m
disciplinary action, up to and including termination.
6. City agrees to take steps to protect the chain of custody of any drug test
sample.
7. Employee will be placed on paid administrative leave pending the
completion of any testing process and any investigation deemed
necessary by the city.
III. EMPLOYEE ASSISTANCE PROGRAM
A. The city has a well-established voluntary Employee Assistance Program
(EAP) to assist employees who seek help for substance abuse problems.
The EAP is available for assessment, referral to treatment, and follow-up.
Any employee of the city wishing confidential assistance for a possible
alcohol or drug problem can call the EAP office and arrange for an
appointment with a counselor.
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Page 350
B. Employees who are concerned about their alcohol or drug use are strongly
encouraged to voluntarily seek assistance through the EAP. All self-referral
contacts are held in confidence by the EAP.
C. Participation in the employee assistance program will not replace normal
disciplinary procedures for unsatisfactory job performance or for violation
of any city policy.
ARTICLE 26. AUTHORIZED AGENTS
For the purpose of administering the terms and provisions of this Memorandum of Understanding:
A. City's principal authorized agent shall be the City Manager or a duly authorized
representative. Address: 1200 Carlsbad Village Drive, Carlsbad, California 92008;
Telephone (760) 434-2820, except where a particular city representative is specifically
designated in connection with the performance of a specific function or obligation set forth
herein.
B. CF A, Inc., principal authorized agent shall be its President or duly authorized
representative. Address: P.O. Box 945, Carlsbad, California 92018-0945; Telephone:
(760) 729-3730; Email: iafflocal3730@aol.com.
ARTICLE 27. FULL UNDERSTANDING, MODIFICATION, WAIVER
A. It is the intent of the parties that this Memorandum set forth the full and entire
understanding of matters agreed to upon conclusion of meet and confer sessions which
resulted in this Memorandum. Any other matters not contained herein, which were
addressed during the course of the meet and confer process, resulting from this
Memorandum, are superseded and terminated in their entirety. Any understanding or
agreement, not contained herein, whether formal or informal, which occurred during the
course of meet and confer sessions, resulting in this Memorandum, are terminated or
superseded in their entirety.
B. It is the intent of the parties that this Memorandum be administered in its entirety in good
faith during its full term.
It is recognized that if during such term it may be necessary for the city to propose changes
in matters within the scope of representation not contained in this agreement, the city shall
notify CF A, Inc., indicating the proposed change prior to its implementation. If CF A, Inc.,
wishes to consult or negotiate with the city regarding the matter, CF A, Inc., shall notify the
city within five (5) working days from the receipt of such notice. Upon receipt of such
notice, the parties shall meet promptly in an earnest effort to reach a mutually satisfactory
resolution of any problem arising as a result of the change instituted by the city.
Where the city makes such changes because of the requirements of the law, the city shall
not be required to negotiate the matter of compliance with any such law.
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Page 351
Nothing herein shall limit the authority of the city to make such changes required during
emergencies. However, the city shall notify CF A, Inc. of such changes as soon as
practicable. Such emergency changes shall not extend beyond the period of emergency.
"Emergency" shall be defined as an unforeseen circumstance requiring immediate
implementation of the change.
C. Failure by CF A, Inc. to request consultation or negotiations pursuant to Paragraph B shall
be deemed as approval of any action taken by the city.
D. Any agreement, alteration, understanding, variation, waiver, or modification of any ofthe
terms or provisions contained herein shall not be binding upon the parties hereto unless
made and executed in writing by all parties hereto, and if required, approved and
implemented by the City Council.
E. The waiver of any breach, term, or condition of this Memorandum by either party shall not
constitute a precedent in the future enforcement of all its terms and provisions.
ARTICLE 28. PROVISIONS OF LAW
It is understood and agreed that this Memorandum of Understanding is subject to all current and
future applicable federal and state laws and federal and state regulations. If any part or provision
of the Memorandum is in conflict or inconsistent with such above applicable laws, rules and
regulations, or is otherwise held to be invalid or unenforceable by any tribunal or competent
jurisdiction, such part or provision shall be suspended and superseded by such applicable law or
regulations, and the remainder of this Memorandum shall not be affected thereby.
ARTICLE 29. PARAMEDIC LICENSE PAY
Fire Captains and Fire Engineers who retain their paramedic license and San Diego County
accreditation will receive sixty-six dollars and ninety-five cents ($66.95) per pay period for
paramedic license pay.
ARTICLE 30. REPORTING VALUE OF UNIFORMS TO CALPERS
Effective May 31, 2010, all CPA-represented employees who are required to wear city-provided
uniforms will have the amount of$17.31 reported to CalPERS bi-weekly as special compensation
related to the monetary value of the required uniforms, excluding boots. Under PEPRA, this
benefit is not reported to CalPERS as special compensation for new members.
ARTICLE 31. ACTING PAY
Whenever the needs of the city require an employee to temporarily perform the duties of a higher
classification than that in which the employee is currently employed for a period of four (4) hours
or more, the employee shall receive 5% additional pay while in the acting capacity. Until July 1,
2017, only employees who are on an Eligibility List (maintained by the Human Resources Dept)
for the higher classification or employees who have completed an Acting Position Taskbook (as
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described in the Fire Department Directives) are eligible to serve in an acting capacity. Effective
July 1, 2017, Appendix A describes the requirements for an employee to be eligible to serve in an
acting capacity.
An employee may not serve in an acting capacity for more than six (6) months without prior
approval from the Fire Chief.
ARTICLE 32. DEFERRED COMPENSATION
The city shall provide for a Deferred Compensation Plan which may be utilized by any employee
on an optional basis. The city reserves the right to accept or reject any particular plan (current
providers are ICMA and Nationwide) and to impose specific conditions upon the use of any plan.
Such plan shall be implemented according to the plan document and without cost to the city.
As soon as administratively possible after ratification of this MOU, and only until the pay period
that includes December 31,2019, for Safety Tier 3 employees only, the City shall match employee
contributions that the Safety Tier 3 employees contribute into a deferred compensation plan up to
a maximum of $2,500 per calendar year per employee. For example, if an employee contributes
$0 in calendar year 2017, the City contributes $0 in calendar year 2017; if an employee contributes
$1,000 in calendar year 2017, the City contributes $1,000 in calendar year 2017; if an employee
contributes $2,500 in calendar year 2017, the City contributes $2,500 in calendar year 2017; if an
employee contributes $3,000 in calendar year 2017, the City contributes $2,500 in calendar year
2017.
ARTICLE 33. LEAVE OF ABSENCE
3 3 .1 Occupational Injuries or Illnesses
33.1.1 Employees in the classifications ofFirefighter, Paramedic Firefighter, Fire
Engineer, Fire Captain and Captain Specialist who are temporarily unable
to work due to an occupational illness or injury will receive full pay for up
to one year as provided in Section 4850 of the Labor Code ("4850
benefits"). The employee may not receive 4850 benefits concurrently with
sick leave or any other form of paid time off.
All non-suppression classifications that sustain a work related injury or
illness and becomes temporarily disabled from work as a result, may receive
their full salary, in lieu of the State mandated temporary disability benefit,
for a period of up to forty-five (45) calendar days for any single incident.
The periods of temporary disability need not be continuous. Any
aggravation of a pre-existing occupational injury or illness will be treated
as such and not as a new injury. In this situation, the employee will not be
entitled to any occupational sick leave benefit which exceeds the original
maximum of forty-five (45) calendar days. The city reserves the right to
determine whether occupational sick leave will be granted. Granting of
occupational sick leave will be subject to the same procedures and standards
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(including predesignated physicians, resolution of disputes over benefits,
use of Agreed Medical Examiners, etc.) as used in workers' compensation
matters and/or FMLA/CFRA matters.
If the employee continues to be unable to work after the above described
benefits have been exhausted and the employee has not been retired, the
employee will receive workers' compensation temporary disability payments
as provided in the Labor Code. To the extent these benefits are less than the
employee's full regular pay, the employee shall supplement them by using
accrued sick leave, vacation, and/or compensatory time to reach the amount
equal to the employee's full regular pay until the employee's leave balances
reach zero, at which time the employee would commence an unpaid leave of
absence.
A sworn employee may not use accrued sick leave after the city approves the
employee's Industrial Disability Retirement (IDR). The employee who is
approved for an IDR may choose to cash out up to 50% of their sick leave
balance upon separation of employment. The remaining sick leave balance
shall be converted to CalPERS service credit.
33.2 Non-Occupational Injuries or Illnesses
33.2.1 An employee who is temporarily unable to work due to a non-occupational
illness or injury will receive those disability benefit payments for which the
employee is eligible and applies. To the extent that these benefits are less
than the employee's full regular pay, the employee shall supplement them
by using accrued sick leave, vacation, and/or compensatory time to reach
the amount equal to the employee's full regular pay until the employee's
leave balances reach zero, at which time the employee would commence an
unpaid leave of absence.
33.2.2 Leaves of absence for pregnancy-related disabilities will be handled in the
same manner as leaves of absence for non-occupational illnesses or injuries,
subject to the pregnancy disability provisions of the California Fair
Employment and Housing Act.
33.3 To the extent permitted by law, a leave of absence under this article will run concurrently
with any leave of absence an employee is entitled to receive under the California Family
Rights Act or the federal Family and Medical Leave Act.
33.4. Leave of Absence Without Pay
A. General Policy
Any employee may be granted a leave of absence without pay pursuant to the
approval of the Fire Chief for less than two calendar weeks. If the duration of the
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leave of absence will be longer, the approval of the City Manager or his/her
designee is required.
An employee shall utilize all his/her vacation, compensatory time off and/or sick
leave (if applicable) prior to taking an authorized leave of absence without pay.
A leave without pay may be granted for any of the following reasons:
1. Illness or disability.
2. To take a course of study which will increase the employee's usefulness on
return to his/her position in the city service.
3. For personal reasons acceptable to the Fire Chief and City Manager.
B. Authorization Procedure
Requests for leave of absence without pay shall be made in writing and shall state
specifically the reason for the request, the date when the leave is desired to begin,
the probable date of return, and the agreement to reimburse the city for any benefit
premiums paid by the city during the leave of absence. The request shall normally
be initiated by the employee, but may be initiated by the Fire Chief, and, if
applicable, shall be promptly transmitted to the City Manager or his/her designee
for approval. A copy of any approved request for leave of absence without pay
with a duration equal to or greater than two calendar weeks shall be delivered
promptly to the Directors of Finance and Human Resources.
C. Length of Leave and Extension
A leave of absence without pay may be made for a period not to exceed six months,
unless otherwise approved by the City Manager. The procedure for granting
extensions shall be the same as that in granting the original leave provided that the
request for extension is made no later than fourteen (14) calendar days prior to the
expiration of the original leave.
D. Return From Leave
When an employee intends to return from an authorized leave of absence without
pay either before or upon the expiration of such leave, he/she shall contact his/her
Department Head at least fourteen (14) calendar days prior to the day he/she plans
to return. The Department Head shall promptly notify the Human Resources
Department of the employee's intention. The employee shall return at a rate of pay
not less than the rate at the time the leave of absence began.
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E. Leave Without Pay -Insurance Payments and Privileges
An employee on leave without pay may continue his/her city insurance benefits by
reimbursing the city for the employee's costs of insurance on a monthly basis
during the period of the leave. Failure to reimburse the city for such benefits during
the term of a leave of absence will result in the employee's coverage terminating
on the first day following the month in which the last payment was received.
Upon the employee's return to paid status, any sums due to the city shall be repaid
through payroll deductions. This applies to sums due for insurance as well as other
payment plans entered into between the city and the employee (e.g., computer
loan).
Upon eligibility for COBRA, the employee will be notified of the opportunity to
continue benefit coverage via the COBRA process.
An employee on leave of absence without pay shall not have all of the privileges
granted to regular employees.
33.5. Pregnancy Disability Leave
Pregnancy Disability Leave shall be authorized and/or administered in accordance
with the provisions of State and Federal law. An employee disabled by pregnancy
shall be allowed to utilize a combination of accrued sick leave, vacation,
compensatory time and leave without pay to take a leave for a reasonable period of
time, not to exceed four months. An employee shall utilize all accrued leave, except
compensatory time off, prior to taking leave without pay. Reasonable period of
time means that period during which the employee is disabled on account of
pregnancy, childbirth, or related conditions.
An employee who plans to take a leave pursuant to this article shall give the city
reasonable notice of the date the leave shall commence and the estimated duration
of the leave.
33.6. Extended Leave of Absence
Eligibility for accrual of sick leave and vacation, holiday pay and cell phone
allowance will be paused until the employee returns to work under two
circumstances, the one occurring later to have precedence:
a) the completion of 84 consecutive calendar days (12 weeks) ofleave of
absence (paid or unpaid and except when leave is ordered by the City)
or
b) the completion of a leave of absence related to Section 4850 of the Labor
Code.
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For example, if an employee, while away from work on an approved
leave of absence for family reasons, is diagnosed with a presumptive
illness, the above-referenced benefits would continue until the
completion ofthe leave of absence related to Labor Code Section 4850.
On the day that the employee returns to work from the extended leave of absence,
the employee will resume eligibility for the abovementioned benefits and the
employee's salary anniversary date, vacation anniversary date and seniority will be
adjusted for each calendar day the leave of absence lasted beyond 84 consecutive
calendar days (12 weeks) or the completion of a leave of absence related to Section
4850 of the Labor Code, whichever was longer.
Exception for a Probationary Newly Hired Employee.
When a probationary newly hired employee is on a leave of absence (paid or
unpaid) that extends beyond 14 consecutive calendar days the probationary period
and salary anniversary date shall be extended for each calendar day the employee
was on a leave of absence. Other than this exception, all other provisions in this
Extended Leave of Absence section apply to a probationary newly hired employee.
ARTICLE 34. MILITARY LEAVE
Military leave shall be authorized in accordance with the applicable provisions of State and Federal
law. The employee must furnish satisfactory proof to the Fire Chief, as far in advance as possible,
that he/she must report to military duty.
ARTICLE 35. JURY DUTY
When called to jury duty, an employee, having provided at least five working days written notice
from the date of the summons, shall be entitled to his/her regular compensation. Employees shall
be entitled to keep mileage reimbursement paid while onjury duty. The Fire Chief may, at his/her
sole discretion, contact the court and request an exemption and/or postponement of jury service on
behalf of an employee.
Employees released early from jury duty shall report to their supervisor for assignment for the
duration of the work day. At the discretion of the supervisor, an employee may be released from
reporting back to work if an unreasonable amount of the work day remains in light of travel time
to the job site after release.
ARTICLE 36. LIFE INSURANCE AND VOLUNTARY BENEFITS
All CF A-represented employees shall receive city paid life insurance in an amount equal to one
times their basic yearly earnings. To determine the benefit, the amount of insurance is rounded to
the next higher $1,000 multiple, unless the amount equals a $1,000 multiple.
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The city provides various voluntary benefits available at the employee's cost. Employees may
select among various levels of coverage. For information regarding these benefits, contact the
Human Resources Department at 760-602-2440.
ARTICLE 37. PROBATIONARY PERIOD
37.1 The initial hire probationary period shall be one year from the date the employee is hired.
The probationary period will permit both the supervisor and the employee to become
acquainted and to determine the adaptability and the fitness of the employee to the assigned
work. The employee will find this period helpful in evaluation of the city, his/her duties,
his/her work and other satisfaction.
37.2 All personnel promoted within the Department shall be on probation in the promotional
position for a period of one year from the date of promotion. Failure to pass probation
shall result in employee being put back to their prior position.
37.3 See Article 33 for the impact of a leave of absence on the probationary period.
ARTICLE 38. POST-RETIREMENT HEALTHCARE TRUST
The city and CF A, Inc. agree that CF A, Inc. will contract directly with a company of its choosing
to provide post-retirement healthcare trust benefits for all represented employees. All CF A
represented employees will contribute $100 per month into the post-retirement healthcare trust
established by CF A, Inc. via payroll deductions. CF A, Inc., acknowledges that the city has no
administrative responsibilities or liabilities related to this benefit, other than processing of payroll
deductions. CF A, Inc. shall hold the city harmless for the city's actions related to this Article, and
indemnify the city against any liability the city incurs as a result of this Article, including but not
limited to, its agreement to allow CF A, Inc., to participate in a post-retirement healthcare trust
and/or the city's processing of payroll deductions as set forth in this section.
Beginning with the first full pay period after ratification of this MOU, the city will contribute
twenty-five dollars ($25) per month per employee to the Post Retirement Healthcare Trust. To
provide CF A members with the value of this city contribution for the pay periods that include the
time period between January 1, 2017 and ratification of this Memorandum by the City Council,
the city shall, with payroll, in the first full pay period after ratification of this Memorandum by the
City Council, make a one-time taxable (non-PERSable) cash payment equal to the retroactive
value of the city contribution for those CF A members employed by the City on that date.
ARTICLE 39. OUTSOURCING
The city and CF A agree that the city may contract with public and private entities or individuals
to perform any or all plan check activities except the final step in the plan checking process. CF A
agrees that the city may contract out these services without meeting and conferring with CF A over
the decision to contract these services or the effects of that decision.
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ARTICLE40. SURVEYMARKET
In keeping with the City Council's philosophy of surveying the total compensation of other
agencies, the agencies listed below will be considered in the survey market for CF A, Inc.
1. City of Del Mar
2. City of Encinitas
3. City of Escondido
4. City of Oceanside
5. City of Poway
6. City of San Marcos
7. City of Solana Beach
8. City of Vista
9. North County Fire District
10. Rancho Santa Fe Fire District
ARTICLE 41. EDUCATION INCENTIVE
This article shall not be subject to the grievance procedure.
41.1 Level 1: Applicable to all employees represented by CF A, Inc., effective the pay period
inclusive of January 1, 2015.
(a) Requirement: Present proofto the Fire Chief or his/her designee of the following:
Evidence of the award of or A Baccalaureate degree and at least two
each of the following (2) years' experience with a professional
certificates issued by the municipal fire agency in a position
California State Board of Fire responsible for fire prevention or fire
Services: suppression duties
1. Fire Fighter I, or
2. Fire Fighter II, an Associate degree and at least four ( 4)
3. Driver Operator IA, years' experience with a professional
4. Driver Operator IB, municipal fire agency in a position
5. Training Instructor IA responsible for fire prevention or fire
and suppression duties.
6. Training Instructor lB.
Proof of certification from a
California State Fire Marshal
course that is deemed
equivalent to one of the
courses listed above by the
Fire Chief or his/her designee
shall also meet the
requirement.
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(b) Compensation:
Satisfactory fulfillment of the above requirements shall be compensated at the rate
of seventy-five dollars ($75) biweekly. Eligibility for receiving the compensation
will be based upon the date the employee provides evidence of eligibility to the
Fire Chief or his/her designee. It is the sole responsibility of the employee to
make notification of eligibility for the education incentive pay.
41.2 Level 2: Applicable to all employees represented by CF A, Inc., effective the pay period
inclusive of January 1, 2015.
(a) Requirement: Present proof to the Fire Chief or his/her designee of the following:
Evidence of the award of the or A Masters degree and at least four ( 4)
Fire Officer certificate issued years' experience with a professional
by the California State Board municipal fire agency in a position
of Fire Services. responsible for fire prevention or fire
suppression duties,
Proof of certification from a or
California State Fire Marshal a Baccalaureate degree and at least six ( 6)
course that is deemed years' experience with a professional
equivalent to the course listed municipal fire agency in a position
above by the Fire Chief or responsible for fire prevention or fire
his/her designee shall also suppression duties,
meet the requirement. or
an Associate degree and at least nine (9)
years' experience with a professional
municipal fire agency in a position
responsible for fire prevention or fire
suppression duties.
(b) Compensation:
Satisfactory fulfillment of the above requirements shall be compensated at the rate
of one hundred twenty dollars ($120) biweekly. Eligibility for receiving the
compensation will be based upon the date the employee provides evidence of
eligibility to the Fire Chief or his/her designee. It is the sole responsibility of the
employee to make notification of eligibility for the education incentive pay.
41.3 An employee that meets the criteria for compensation under more than one level, above,
shall receive compensation for only the highest such level for which he or she qualifies.
41.4 Eligibility for education incentive is determined based on the requirements issued by the
California State Fire Marshal in place at the time the employee presents his/her evidence
of eligibility. A change in the name of any of the above tracks identified or a future
37
Page 360
requirement of promotion in addition to the completion of a "task book" shall not effect
eligibility for certification compensation.
ARTICLE 42. WELLNESS
The City shall contract with a wellness program provider to provide a wellness program to all
CF A employees.
Participation in educational components is mandatory. Employees are strongly encouraged to
participate in the comprehensive fitness assessment and in the blood chemistry evaluation;
however, employees may choose not to participate in either of these two components. All
information and results from this general fitness evaluation are confidential in accordance with
HIP AA regulations, non-punitive and will be given only to the employee.
38
Page 361
Appendix A
Requirements to be "Certified", Serve in an "Acting" Capacity and Apply for a Promotion
Effective July 1, 2017
REQUIREMENTS TO TASKBOOK REQUIREMENTS TO SERVE REQUIREMENTS
BE "CERTIFIED" COMPLETION IN AN "ACTING" CAP A CITY TO APPLY FOR A
(Taskbooks are PROMOTION AND
described in the City TAKE THE
of Carlsbad Fire PROMOTIONAL
Department TEST
Directives)
I. FIRE ENGINEER
To be a Certified Fire An employee may 1. To be eligible to serve in a In order to qualify for
Engineer, an employee start working on the Fire Engineer acting capacity, participation in the
must City of Carlsbad Fire an employee must be on a promotional process
a. have two (2) years of Engineer Taskbook at current City of Carlsbad Fire for the position of
service in the City of any time and may Engineer eligibility list Fire Engineer, an
Carlsbad Fire complete it either (maintained by the Human employee must be a
Department and before or after taking Resources Department). Certified Fire
b. have completed all the promotional test. 2. However, if there are fewer Engineer.
State Fire Marshal (Note: some of the than three (3) employees on
courses required to items in the taskbook the eligibility list, or, at the
obtain a 2016 require a 20 16 discretion of the Fire Chief or
Driver/Operator Driver/Operator his/her designee, an employee
certification (or the certificate or the may be placed in an acting
equivalent equivalent Fire Engineer capacity if
certification as certification as defmed a. he/she is a Certified
defmed by the State by the State Fire Fire Engineer and
Fire Marshal). Marshal.) b. he/she has completed
the City of Carlsbad
Fire Engineer
Taskbook.
39
Page 362
REQUIREMENTS TO TASKBOOK REQUIREMENTS TO SERVE REQUIREMENTS
BE "CERTIFIED" COMPLETION IN AN "ACTING" CAPACITY TO APPLY FOR A
(Taskbooks are PROMOTION AND
described in the City TAKE THE
of Carlsbad Fire PROMOTIONAL
Department TEST
Directives)
II. FIRE CAPTAIN
To be a Certified Fire An employee may 1. To be eligible to serve in a In order to qualify for
Captain, an employee start working on the Fire Captain acting capacity, participation in the
must City of Carlsbad Fire an employee must be on a promotional process
a. have three (3) years Captain Taskbook at current City of Carlsbad Fire for the position of
of service in the City any time and may Captain eligibility list Fire Captain, an
of Carlsbad Fire complete it either (maintained by the Human employee must be a
Department and before or after taking Resources Department). Certified Fire
b. have completed all the promotional test. 2. However, ifthere are fewer Captain.
State Fire Marshal (Note: some ofthe than three (3) employees on
courses required to items in the taskbook the eligibility list, or, at the
obtain a 2016 may require discretion of the Fire Chief or
Company Officer certificates and/or his/her designee, an employee
certification (or the have prerequisite may be placed in an acting
equivalent requirements.) Fire Captain capacity if
certification as a. he/she is a Certified
defined by the State Fire Captain and
Fire Marshal) and b. he/she has completed
c. be a Certified Fire the City of Carlsbad
Engineer and Fire Captain
d. have completed the Taskbook.
City of Carlsbad Fire
Engineer Taskbook.
(Note: this step (d) is
not required if an
employee was a
Carlsbad Fire
Engineer prior to
711/17.)
40
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused their duly authorized representatives to
execute this Memorandum of Understanding the day, month, and year first above written.
Date
Approved as to form:
LIA BREWER, Ctty Attorney Date
RS' ASSOCIATION, INC.
41
Page 364
Attachment B
CARLSBAD FIREFIGHTERS' ASSOCIATION, INC.
BIWEEKLY SALARY SCHEDULE
Effective January 1, 2017
RANGE STEP 1 STEP2 STEP 3 STEP4 STEP 5 RANGE
35 $2,370.21 $2,488.75 $2,613.20 $2,743.81 $2,881.04 35
36 $2,397.30 $2,517.18 $2,643.04 $2,775.19 $2,913.95 36
37 $2,636.55 $2,768.38 $2,906.78 $3,052.14 $3,204.75 37
41 $2,748.18 $2,885.59 $3,029.88 $3,181.37 $3,340.43 41
42 $2,808.23 $2,948.65 $3,096.08 $3,250.88 $3,413.44 42
43 $2,803.15 $2,943.30 $3,090.49 $3,244.98 $3,407.25 43
45 $3,289.01 $3,453.46 $3,626.15 $3,807.44 $3,997.81 45
49 $3,617.96 $3,798.82 $3,988.78 $4,188.16 $4,397.59 49
CLASSIFICATION RANGE
FIREFIGHTER 35
FIRE PREVENTION SPECIALIST I 36
FIRE PREVENTION SPECIALIST II 37
PARAMEDIC FIREFIGHTER 41
FIRE ENGINEER 42
DEPUTY FIRE MARSHAL 43
ASSISTANT FIRE MARSHAL 45
FIRE CAPTAIN 45
CAPTAIN SPECIALIST 49
Page 365
CARLSBAD FIREFIGHTERS' ASSOCIATION, INC.
BIWEEKLY SALARY SCHEDULE
Effective January 1, 2018
RANGE STEP 1 STEP 2 STEP 3 STEP 4 STEP 5 RANGE
35 $2,417.62 $2,538.52 $2,665.45 $2,798.69 $2,938.67 35
36 $2,445.25 $2,567.53 $2,695.90 $2,830.70 $2,972.23 36
37 $2,689.28 $2,823.75 $2,964.92 $3,113.18 $3,268.85 37
41 $2,803.14 $2,943.30 $3,090.48 $3,245.00 $3,407.24 41
42 $2,900.90 $3,045.95 $3,198.25 $3,358.15 $3,526.07 42
43 $2,859.22 $3,002.17 $3,152.30 $3,309.87 $3,475.39 43
45 $3,397.55 $3,567.42 $3,745.81 $3,933.08 $4,129.73 45
49 $3,737.35 $3,924.18 $4,120.42 $4,326.37 $4,542.71 49
CLASSIFICATION RANGE
FIREFIGHTER 35
FIRE PREVENTION SPECIALIST I 36
FIRE PREVENTION SPECIALIST II 37
PARAMEDIC FIREFIGHTER 41
FIRE ENGINEER 42
DEPUTY FIRE MARSHAL 43
ASSISTANT FIRE MARSHAL 45
FIRE CAPTAIN 45
CAPTAIN SPECIALIST 49
Page 366
CARLSBAD FIREFIGHTERS' ASSOCIATION, INC.
BIWEEKLY SALARY SCHEDULE
Effective January 1, 2019
RANGE STEP 1 STEP 2 STEP 3 STEP 4 STEP 5 RANGE
35 $2,465.97 $2,589.29 $2,718.77 $2,854.67 $2,997.44 35
36 $2,494.15 $2,618.88 $2,749.82 $2,887.31 $3,031.68 36
37 $2,743.06 $2,880.22 $3,024.22 $3,175.45 $3,334.22 37
41 $2,859.20 $3,002.17 $3,152.30 $3,309.90 $3,475.38 41
42 $2,958.92 $3,106.87 $3,262.21 $3,425.32 $3,596.60 42
43 $2,916.40 $3,062.21 $3,215.34 $3,376.07 $3,544.90 43
45 $3,465.50 $3,638.77 $3,820.72 $4,011.74 $4,212.33 45
49 $3,812.10 $4,002.66 $4,202.82 $4,412.90 $4,633.57 49
CLASSIFICATION RANGE
FIREFIGHTER 35
FIRE PREVENTION SPECIALIST I 36
FIRE PREVENTION SPECIALIST II 37
PARAMEDIC FIREFIGHTER 41
FIRE ENGINEER 42
DEPUTY FIRE MARSHAL 43
ASSISTANT FIRE MARSHAL 45
FIRE CAPTAIN 45
CAPTAIN SPECIALIST 49
Page 367
JOB TITLE:
DEPARTMENT:
BASIC FUNCTION:
CITY OF CARLSBAD
CLASS SPECIFICATION
FIREFIGHTER
FIRE
Attachment C
Under supervision, to fight fires and to participate in fire prevention activities in
protecting life and property; to operate and maintain fire fighting and rescue equipment,
and fire stations; and to do related work as assigned.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
Serve as hose operator if fire fighting situations including pulling working lines, manning
the nozzle to direct the stream of water on the fire, placing, raising, lowering, and
climbing ladders, and assisting in overhaul and salvage operations.
Respond to rescue calls and administer first aid.
Clean and inspect equipment, perform lubrication, make adjustments and repairs to
equipment, and maintain fuel and oil supply.
Clean and test fire hoses.
Routine inspection and maintenance of fire hydrants.
Operate radio-telephone equipment.
Study Fire Department rules and regulations, fire hazards, fire fighting techniques and
related subjects.
Conduct fire prevention inspection and education programs.
Participate in fire drills and training exercises.
Respond to fire calls during non-duty hours.
Participate in continuous training in fire prevention, inspection and suppression through
both simulated and on-the-job-exercises.
May be assigned as a paramedic if properly trained, certified and appointed to perform
such duties by the Fire Chief.
Page 368
Firefighter, Page 2 of2
Serve as Acting Fire Engineer or Acting Captain as assigned for emergency relief
purposes.
QUALIFICATIONS:
Knowledge of:
Rules, regulations, and operational procedures of the Fire Department.
Ability to:
Demonstrate physical endurance, agility and strength sufficient to meet the
established standards ofthe City.
Demonstrate a high degree of mechanical aptitude.
Learn fire fighting methods and techniques, the operation of fire fighting
equipment, street location and physical layout of the City, and major traffic and
fire hazards.
Think and act quickly in emergencies.
Understand and follow oral and written directions promptly and accurately.
Deal courteously and effectively with the general public.
Establish and maintain cooperative relationships with those contacted in the
course of work.
EXPERIENCE AND EDUCATION:
Any combination equivalent to experience and education that could likely provide the
required knowledge and abilities would be qualifying.
SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:
Within one year from date of hire, employee must possess and maintain a valid Class B
California drivers license, to include a water tank and air brake endorsement.
Must possess and maintain current certification as an Emergency Medical Technician I in
the State of California.
DATE APPROVED: 6/13/2017
Page 369
CITY OF CARLSBAD
CLASS SPECIFICATION
JOB TITLE: PARAMEDIC/FIREFIGHTER
DEPARTMENT: FIRE
BASIC FUNCTION:
Under supervision, provides basic and advanced life support services to ill or injured persons in
accordance with the policies established by the Department of Emergency Medical Services of
San Diego County; fights fires and participates in fire prevention activities for the protection of
life and property; operates and maintains vehicles, apparatus, equipment, stations and
communication systems; teaches fire safety to the public; and performs other duties as required.
DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS:
This is an entry level into the professional fire service series. The paramedic/firefighter is a
uniformed member of the public safety/fire suppression/EMS division of the department. This
position supports dual responsibilities as a paramedic and as a firefighter and is utilized in both
types of assignments as needed.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
Responds to medical emergencies;
Conducts or assists in the extrication of trapped persons;
Performs primary and secondary physical assessment of ill or injured persons;
Performs cardiopulmonary resuscitation;
Maintains an effective airway for patients with compromised breathing;
Immobilizes injured limbs and spinal vertebra where injury is suspected;
Controls bleeding of external injuries;
Assists with emergency childbirth;
Provides emotional support to distressed persons;
Administers oxygen to support respiratory functions;
Page 370
Paramedic/Firefighter Page 2
Utilizes adjunctive ventilation devices, such as endotracheal tubes;
Applies and utilize pneumatic anti-shock garments;
Analyzes electrocardiograms and recognizes cardiac arrhythmias;
Administers medications by intravenous, intramuscular or topical means;
Performs electrical defibrillation;
Operates radio-telephone equipment and communicates medical information to base hospital
medical personnel and others;
Serves as a preceptor for paramedic and emergency medical technician trainees;
Compiles necessary reports and records; drives an ambulance vehicle;
Responds to and performs skilled tasks at the scenes of emergency calls including: fire, medical
assistance, rescues, hazards identification, hazardous materials identification and spills, public
assistance and service;
Safely drives and operates vehicles, apparatus and equipment;
Teaches fire safety, CPR and other classes and participates in public education demonstrations
and activities;
Conducts inspections and school exit drills;
Writes reports and maintains records; maintains, inspects, and repairs fire stations and fire
grounds, emergency and support vehicles, apparatus, equipment, fire hydrants, radios, and alarm
systems;
Participates in department physical fitness program;
Performs emergency medical procedures;
Participates in proficiency training to develop and maintain emergency skills;
Uses computers in performing required duties, performs other related duties as assigned.
QUALIFICATIONS:
Knowledge of:
Basic and advance life support principles and procedures;
Paramedic/Firefighter
Page 2 of5
Page 371
San Diego County Emergency Medical System (EMS) regulations, protocols and
procedures;
Carlsbad Fire Department operations, such as rescue, firefighting, radio communications,
Incident Command System (ICS), fire protection equipment and systems, fire behavior,
hazardous materials and water systems;
Federal, state, and local laws, regulations and standards;
Maintenance and repair of vehicles, apparatus, equipment and fire hydrants;
Local geographical response factors;
Correct English grammar, spelling, punctuation;
Basic mathematics, chemistry, and physics of fire behavior and hazardous materials;
Safety practices and procedures;
Personal computer operating systems and software applications;
Requirements and standards as defined in the National Fire Protection Association
(NFP A) Standard 1002 preferred.
Ability to:
React quickly and calmly to fight fires and perform emergency medical techniques and
procedures;
Perform rescues;
Operate, maintain, inspect and repair vehicles, apparatus, equipment, communication
systems and fire hydrants;
Clean and maintain fire station and grounds;
Conduct fire inspections and school exit drills;
Teach classes and participate in public education demonstrations and activities;
Write comprehensive reports and maintain accurate records;
Relate effectively to those contacted in the course of work;
Learn local conditions, locations and regulations;
Page 372
Paramedic/Firefighter Page 4
Operate computers, understand and follow oral and written directions promptly and
accurately.
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:
A typical way to obtain the required knowledge and abilities would be any combination
equivalent to the education and experience that could likely provide the required
knowledge and abilities would be qualifying.
REQUIRED CERTIFICATION AND LICENSE:
Licensed as an Emergency Medical Technician-Paramedic (EMT-P) with the State of California
and current EMT-P accreditation with the County of San Diego EMS office. Firefighter I
certification.
Within one year from date of hire, employee must possess appropriate, valid California class B
Firefighter Driver's License, to include a water tank and air brake endorsement/or Class C
California Drivers License with Firefighter Endorsement, and when required, a valid Medical
Examiner's Card must be maintained.
SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:
As a condition of continued employment, the Paramedic/Firefighter must maintain
current license as an EMT-P with the State of California and current EMT-P accreditation
with the County of San Diego EMS office.
PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS:
Meet the requirements specified in the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 1001
Standard for entry level Firefighters.
OTHER CHARACTERISTICS:
Must have willingness and ability to: work variable shifts and overtime as required;
attend meetings and training activities, both on and off duty; work under hazardous, life-
threatening conditions, such as, at heights, in confined spaces, at temperature extremes,
around crowds, with loud noises, with limited visibility, in the presence of hazardous
materials, in the presence of victims of death and/or dismemberment; work effectively as
a team member of a company, battalion, department, special project group by following
orders, consistently following through with duties/assignments and living harmoniously
with co-workers; wear approved uniform. '
DATE APPROVED: 6/13/2017
Paramedic/Firefighter
Page 4 of5
Page 373
JOB TITLE:
DEPARTMENT:
BASIC FUNCTION:
CITY OF CARLSBAD
CLASS SPECIFICATION
FIRE ENGINEER
FIRE
Under supervision, to operate and maintain fire trucks, fire fighting and response
equipment, and fire stations; to participate in fire prevention activities in protecting life
and property; and to do related work as assigned.
KEY RESPONSIBLITIES:
Drive and operate fire equipment.
Maintain fire apparatus and other emergency vehicles.
Respond to incidents and select the most direct route to the fire.
Lay hose lines, operate fire fighting and rescue equipment as required.
Man nozzles to direct stream of water on fire.
Assist in overhaul and salvage operations.
Respond to rescue calls and administer first aid.
Operate radio-telephone equipment.
Inspect equipment, perform lubrication, make mmor adjustments and repairs, and
maintain fuel and oil supply.
Wash and test fire hoses.
Clean station quarters and equipment and maintain a clean and orderly condition in and
about the fire house.
Study Fire Department rules and regulations, fire hazards and fire fighting techniques.
Participate in fire drills and training exercises.
Conduct fire prevention inspection and education programs.
Page 374
Fire Engineer Page 2
Prepare reports with respect to equipment maintenance and work operations.
Instruct fire personnel in the operation and maintenance of fire equipment.
Respond to fire calls during non-duty hours.
Serve as Acting Fire Captain as assigned.
Routine inspection and maintenance of fire hydrants.
QUALIFICATIONS:
Knowledge of:
Street system, the physical layout of the City and the location of fire hydrants,
mains and their fire flow capabilities.
Fire fighting methods and techniques.
Operating and mechanical principles involved in the operation and maintenance
of fire apparatus and equipment.
Fire hydrants.
Fire aid and CPR.
Rules, regulations and operational procedures of the Fire Department.
Ability to:
Establish and maintain cooperative relationships with those contacted m the
course of work.
Understand and follow oral and written instructions quickly and correctly.
Operate fire equipment and apparatus.
Maintain fire equipment and apparatus.
Think and act quickly in emergencies.
Understand and follow oral and written directions promptly and accurately.
Write clear, concise and accurate reports.
Perform field calculations in hydraulics for proper and safe operations at
emergency scenes.
Page 375
Fire Engineer Page 3
EXPERIENCE AND EDUCATION:
Any combination equivalent to experience and education that could likely provide the
required knowledge and abilities would be qualifying. A typical way to obtain the
knowledge and abilities would be:
Experience:
Two years of municipal fire fighting experience.
Education:
High school diploma or equivalent. Completion of college level courses or their
equivalent in Fire Science in compliance with departmental policies.
SPECIAL REQUIREMENT:
Possession and maintenance of a valid Firefighter Non-Commercial Class B California
Drivers License, to include a water tank and air brake endorsement/or Class C California
Drivers License with Firefighter Endorsement.
Possession and maintenance of a California Emergency Medical Technician -Certificate.
Physical Characteristics:
Meet the requirements specified in the National Fire Protection Association (NFP A) 1 00 1
Standard for entry level Firefighters.
DATE APPROVED: 6/13/2017
Page 376
CITY OF CARLSBAD
CLASS SPECIFICATION
JOB TITLE: FIRE CAPTAIN
DEPARTMENT: FIRE DEPARTMENT
BASIC FUNCTION:
Under direction, to perform management, supervisory and technical work in fire fighting, emergency
rescue, fire inspection, fire prevention, and fire training activities; and to do related work as assigned.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
Plan and execute work assignments of fire prevention, fire suppression and rescue personnel in an
assigned company.
Respond to fire alarms as commanding officer, and as such is responsible for the fire supervision and
performance and safety of assigned fire fighting personnel.
Direct fire fighting, rescue and emergency medical operations until relieved by a superior officer.
Operate radio-telephone equipment.
Supervise and participate in salvage and overhaul operations.
Supervise and assist in rendering first aid in an emergency incident.
Supervise the assignments and work of emergency medical technicians and paramedics on an assigned
shift basis.
Direct the cleaning of quarters, equipment and apparatus at fire station. Inspect personnel and
maintain discip 1 in e.
Instruct personnel in the proper use of safety precautions; assure adherence to established safety
standards in daily operations involving personnel and equipment.
Instruct and drill fire department personnel in fire prevention and fire fighting methods, techniques,
and related subjects.
Supervise and participate in the inspection of buildings and installations for fire hazards and fire safety
systems as required by State laws and City ordinances.
Assist in planning and conducting the City wide fire prevention program and education program.
Assume administrative responsibilities involving the department's budgeting, purchasing, equipment
maintenance, and personnel functions.
Prepare reports and maintain records.
Page 377
Fire Captain Page 2
May be required to respond to fire calls during non-duty hours.
May serve as a paramedic team coordinator and supervisor if properly trained, certified and appointed
to such duties by the Fire Chief.
May be assigned a variety of special assignments involving emergency medical operations, fire
prevention, department communications and others.
Supervise, train, and evaluate subordinates.
Serve as Acting Battalion Fire Chief -as assigned.
QUALIFICATIONS:
Knowledge of:
Principles, practices, and procedures of modern fire fighting, fire prevention practices, and
protection of lives and property.
Rules, regulations, and operational procedures of the Fire Department.
Operation and maintenance of the type of apparatus and equipment used in modern fire fighting
activities.
First aid and CPR.
Principles of supervision, training, and performance evaluation.
Mechanical, chemical and related characteristics of a wide variety of flammable and explosive
materials and objects.
Local geography including the location of main and hydrants, GPM (gallons per minute) per
capacity, and the major fire hazards of the City.
Demonstrate Ability to:
Communicate clearly and concisely, orally and in writing.
Conduct thorough fact finding inspection and investigation.
Operate apparatus and equipment used in modern fire fighting activities.
Establish and maintain cooperative relationships with those contacted in the course of work.
Supervise, train, and evaluate assigned staff.
Think and act quickly in emergencies.
Page 378
Fire Captain Page 3
EXPERIENCE AND EDUCATION:
Any combination equivalent to experience and education that could likely provide the required
knowledge and abilities would be qualifying. A typical way to obtain the knowledge and abilities would
be:
Experience: Three years of municipal fire fighting experience.
Education: High school diploma or equivalent, supplemented by the equivalent of 60 units
college course work which can be credited toward a major in Fire Science.
SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:
Possession and maintenance of a valid Firefighter Non-Commercial Class B California driver's
license, to include a water tank and air brake endorsement/or Class C California Drivers License with
Firefighter Endorsement.
Possession and maintenance of a California Emergency Medical Technician-Certificate. Instructor
Training No. 1 and No. 2 or equivalent.
DATE APPROVED: 6/13/2017
Page 379
Exhibit 2
MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING
BETWEEN THE CITY OF CARLSBAD
AND THE CARLSBAD FIREFIGHTERS' ASSOCIATION, INC.
Term: January 1, ~2017-December 31, ~2019
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Preamble Page 1
Article 1 Recognition Page 1
Article 2 Implementation Page 1
Article 3 Term Page 1
Article 4 Renegotiation Page 1
Article 5 Retention of Benefits Page 2
Article 6 City Rights Page 2
Article 7 No Strike and No Lockout Page 2
Article 8 Compensation Adjustments Page 3
Article 9 Bereavement Leave Page ... .)
Article 10 Long Term Disability Page 4
Article 11 Annual Vacation Leave Page 4
Article 12 Sick Leave Accrual Page 6
Article 13 Bilingual Pay Page 7
Article 14 Linen Provision, Maintenance, and Replacement Page 7
Article 15 Flexible Benefits Program Page 7
Article 16 Holidays Page 10
Article 17 Retirement Benefits Page 11
Article 18 Provision of 1959 PERS Survivors' Benefit Page 12
Article 19 Overtime and Compensatory Time Page 12
Article 20 Flexible Work Schedules for Deputy Fire Marshal Page 13
Article 21 Americans With Disabilities Act Page 14
Article 22 Family Leave Act Page 14
Article 23 Discipline of Employee Page 14
Article 24 Grievance Procedure Page 16
Article 25 Alcohol and Drug Policy Page 20
Article 26 Authorized Agents Page 24
Article 27 Full Understanding, Modification, Waiver Page 25
Article 28 Provisions of Law Page 26
Article 29 Paramedic License Pay Page 26
Article 30 Reporting Value of Uniforms to Ca!PERS Page 26
Article 31 Acting Pay Page 26
Article 32 Deferred Compensation Page 26
Article 33 Leave of Absence Page 27
Article 34 Military Leave Page 30
Page 380
Article 35 Jury Duty Page 30
Article 36 Life Insurance and Voluntary Benefits Page 30
Article 37 Probationary Period Page 31
Article 38 Post-Retirement Healthcare Trust Page 31
Article 39 Outsourcing Page 31
Article 40 Survey Market Page 31
Article 41 Education Incentive Page 32 __
Article 42 Well ness Page 32
Ag~ndix A Reguirements to be ·'Certified". Serve in an '·Acting"
Cagaci!Y and Aggly for a Promotion Page 33
ii
Page 381
MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING
This Memorandum of Understanding is made and entered into as of the date of formal approval
hereof by the City Council of the City of Carlsbad, by and between designated management
representatives of the City of Carlsbad (hereinafter referred to as the "city") and the designated
representatives of the Carlsbad Firefighters' Association, Inc. (hereinafter referred to as CF A or
"CF A, Inc.").
PREAMBLE
It is the purpose of this Memorandum of Understanding (hereinafter referred to as
"Memorandum") to promote and provide for harmonious relations, cooperation, and
understanding between the city management representatives and the local safety tire employees
covered under this Memorandum; to provide an orderly and equitable means of resolving any
misunderstandings or differences which may arise under this Memorandum; and to set forth the
agreement of the parties reached as a result of good faith negotiations regarding wages, hours, and
other terms and conditions of employment of the employees covered under this Memorandum,
which agreement the parties intend jointly to submit and recommend for City Council approval
and implementation. In cases where there is a conflict between this Memorandum and tl1e Carlsbad
Fire Department Directives, this Memorandum shall prevail.
ARTICLE I. RECOGNITION
The City of Carlsbad recognizes CF A, Inc. as the majority representative for all classifications in
this Unit, as set forth in the Petition for Recognition, submitted November 3, 1991 , in accordance
with the provisions of Section 2.48.090 (1) of the Carlsbad Municipal Code.
ARTICLE 2. IMPLEMENTATION
This Memorandum constitutes a mutual recommendation to be jointly submitted to the City
Council following ratification of the Memorandum by the membership of CF A, Inc. It is agreed
that this Memorandum shall not be binding upon the parties, either in whole or in part, unless and
until the City Council acts by majority vote to formally approve and adopt this Memorandum. It
is further agreed that, if the City Council approves and adopts this Memorandum, city management
will act in a tinlcly manner to make the changes or recommend the City Council make the changes,
in city ordinances, resolutions, rules, policies, and procedures necessary to implement this
Memorandum.
ARTICLE 3. TERM
The term of this Memorandum shall be from January 1, ~20 17, through December 31,
~20 1 9.
ARTICLE 4. RENEGOTIATION
Page 382
In the event either party desires to meet and confer in good faith on the terms of a successor
Memorandum, that party shall serve upon the other a notice of such intent. During the term of this
Memorandum, the parties agree to meet and confer upon request of the other party to discuss
additional changes to this Memorandum required by implementation of the HCMS payroll
software system.
ARTICLE 5. RETENTION OF BENEFITS
The employees represented by CFA, Inc., shall retain all present benefits for the term ofthis
agreement, as amended by this Memorandum, subject to the following provisions:
• Matters That Fall Within the Scope of Representation:
The city agrees to give advance notice and opportunity to meet and confer on the
subject of current wage levels and benefits, and other matters which fall within the
scope of representation, such as, but not limited to, material modifications to
personnel rules and Fire Department directives, before taking any action impacting
employees within the bargaining unit.
• Management Rights:
The city's decisions regarding staffing levels, station closures, layoffs,
reorganization, contracting out bargaining unit work to third parties, and furloughs
which the city may elect to utilize to address fiscal difficulties it faces now or in the
future, are management rights. Nevertheless, the city agrees to give advance notice
and the opportunity to discuss these subjects before taking any action impacting
employees within the bargaining unit.
ARTICLE 6. CITY RIGHTS
The rights of the city include, but are not limited to the exclusive right to determine the mission
of its constituent departments, commissions, and boards; set standards of service; determine the
procedures and standards of selection for employment and promotion; direct its employees; take
disciplinary action; relieve its employees from duty because of lack of work or for other
legitimate reasons; contract out, after meeting and conferring over decision and effects,
bargaining unit work to third parties; maintain the efficiency of governmental operations;
determine the methods, means, and personnel by which government operations are to be
conducted; determine the content of job classifications; take all necessary actions to carry out its
mission in emergencies; and exercise complete control and discretion over its organization and
the technology of performing its work.
ARTICLE 7. NO STRIKE AND NO LOCKOUT
A. No Strike. During the term of this Memorandum and in accordance with Labor Code
Section 1962, neither the employees nor any agents or representatives will instigate,
promote, sponsor, engage in, or condone any strike (including sympathy strike), slowdown,
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Page 383
concerted stoppage of work, sick outs, or any other intentional disruption of the operations
of the city, regardless of the reason for so doing.
B. Penalty. If a strike occurs in violation of Article 7.A. or Labor Code Section1962, the city
may utilize any legal remedies available to it to halt the strike. In addition, any employee
engaging in activity prohibited by Article 7.A. or Labor Code Section 1962, or who
instigates or gives leadership to such activity, shall be subject to disciplinary action.
C. No Lockout. During the term of this Memorandum, the city will not instigate a lockout
over a dispute with the employees so long as there is no breach of Section 7.A.
D. Association Official Responsibility. Each employee who is an officer of CF A, Inc.
occupies a position of special trust and responsibility in maintaining and bringing about
compliance with the provisions of this Alticle. The employees agree to inform members
of their obligations under this Memorandum and Labor Code Section 1962 and to direct
them to return to work.
E. Non-discrimination Clause. Neither city nor CF A, lnc. shall interfere with, intimidate,
restrain, coerce, or disctiminate against employees covered by this Memorandum because
of exercise of rights to engage or not engage in CF A, lnc. activity or because of the exercise
of any right provided to the employees by this Memorandum.
ARTICLE 8. COMPENSATION ADJUSTMENTS
effective ilie first full flay fleried fullevi.ng City Getfficil aflflFeva:l ef tliis MOU, all GFA
reJ3reseated e£Bflleyees will receive a $2,900 ta>,able casll stiflend tliat is non persable.
Effective tlie fl&)' peried that includes Jaooary 1, 2015 , aU GFA represented em.pleyees will receive
a $1,000 ta><able casli stipend that is n()ft persable.
Effective tlie pay peried that includes January 1, 2016, all GFA represen:ted em.ployees ·will recei'"e
a three percent (3%) salary increase.
Effective January l, 201 7. all CFA represented employees will receive a salary increase based on
their classification as shown below.
Fire Engineer. Fire Captain, Captain Specialist and Assistant Fire Marshal 3.45%
All other classifications 2.25%
Effective January 1. 2018. all CFA represented employees will receive a salary increase based on
their classification as shown below.
Fire Engineer. Fire Captain, Captain Specialist and Assistant Fire Marshal3.3%
All other classifications 2%
Effective January 1, 2019. all CFA represented employees will receive a two percent (2%) salary
increase.
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Any step increases granted shall be effective on the employee's anniversary date or date of
promotion.
ARTICLE 9. BEREAVEMENT LEAVE
An employee working a 112 hours/pay period schedule may use up to two shifts (48 hours) of paid
leave if required to be absent from duty due to the death of a member of the employee's immediate
family. The usage of bereavement leave, however, is limited to three consecutive days which may
or may not include a scheduled shift(s). An employee working an 80 hours/pay period schedule
may use up to three work shifts of paid leave if required to be absent from duty due to the death of
a member of the employee's immediate family. Additional time off may be authorized by the Fire
Chief or his/her designee and charged to accrued vacation or sick leave or, when no accrued leave
is available, treated as leave without pay.
The "immediate family" shall be defined as: a spouse, domestic partner, child, grandchild, member
of immediate household, sibling, parent, or grandparent whether biological, foster, step, adopted,
or in-law. lt also includes any person who has served in place of a parent to the employee, or any
person for whom the employee has served in place of a parent. The term "child" means a
biological, foster, or adopted child, a stepchild, a legal ward, a child of a domestic partner, or a
child of a person standing in loco parentis. The term "parent" means a biological, foster, or
adoptive parent, a stepparent, or a legal guardian.
The employee may be required to submit proof of the family member's death before being granted
bereavement leave.
ARTICLE 10. LONG-TERM DISABILITY
The eity 8fle CFA ag£ee lhat CFA ""'*l eeatfaet eifeetly vrilh aa ie:sl:lfftflee eempaay te pre•;iee
leag term disability beRefits fer all represeatee empleyees at lhe empleyee's eest.
-The city will contract with a mutually agreed upon insurance company to provide long term
disability insurance for all represented employees. The insurance shall provide a 30-day benefit
waiting period. The city will pay the full premium for this insurance beginning with the first full
pay period after ratification. The dollar amount paid by CFA employees for the LTD insurance
premiums between the first full pay period of calendar year 2017 and the first full pay period
after ratification will be paid to active CFA employees as a one-time taxable (non-PERSable)
cash payment in the first full pay period after ratification ofthis Memorandum.
ARTICLE 11. ANNUAL VACATION LEAVE
A. Basis of Accrual
The city and CFA, lnc., agree to continue the following annual vacation leave schedule for
all employees working a 112 hours/pay period schedule:
Less than 5
5 through 9.99
full calendar years of continuous service -21 minutes/day
full calendar years of continuous service -32 minutes/day
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Page 385
10 through 10.99 full calendar years of continuous service -34 minutes/day
11 through 11.99 full calendar years of continuous service -36 minutes/day
12 through 12.99 full calendar years of continuous service -38 minutes/day
13 through 14.99 full calendar years of continuous service -40 minutes/day
15 or more full calendar years of continuous service -42 minutes/day
The city and CF A, Inc., agree to continue the following annual vacation leave schedule for
all employees working an 80 hours/pay period schedule:
Less than 5
5 through 9.99
10 through 10.99
11 through 11.99
12 through 12.99
13 through 14.99
15 ormore
full calendar years of continuous service
full calendar years of continuous service
full calendar years of continuous service
full calendar years of continuous service
full calendar years of continuous service
full calendar years of continuous service
full calendar years of continuous service
-13 minutes/day
-20 minutes/day
-21 minutes/day
-22 minutes/day
-24 minutes/day
-25 minutes/day
-26 minutes/day
Effective January 1. 2018. the annual vacation leave accrual schedule for all employees
working a 112 hours/pay period schedule will be:
Less than 3 full calendar years of continuous service -21 minutes/day
3 through 4.99 full calendar years of continuous service -26 minutes/day
5 through 9.99 full calendar years of continuous service -32 minutes/day
10 through 10.99 full calendar years of continuous service -34 minutes/dav
11 through 11.99 full calendar years of continuous service -36 minutes/day
12 through 12.99 full calendar years of continuous service -38 minutes/day
13 through 14.99 full calendar years of continuous service -40 minutes/day
15 or more full calendar years of continuous service -42 minutes/day
Effective January l, 2018. the annual vacation leave accrual schedule for all employees
working an 80 hours/pay period schedule:
Less than 3 full calendar years of continuous service -13 minutes/dav
3 through 4.99 full calendar years of continuous service -16 minutes/day
5 through 9.99 full calendar years of continuous service -20 minutes/day
10 through 10.99 full calendar years of continuous service -21 minutes/day
11 through 11.99 full calendar years of continuous service -22 minutes/day
12 through 12.99 full calendar years of continuous service -24 minutes/day
13 through 14.99 full calendar years of continuous service -25 minutes/day
15 or more full calendar years of continuous service -26 minutes/day
Vacation leave is accrued on a daily basis. Vacation leave can be used in 15 minute increments.
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Page 386
Effective January l, 2017, a CFA-represented employee who is reinstated, as defmed in the
City of Carlsbad Personnel Rules and Regulations, upon reinstatement, shall resume the same
vacation accrual rate that the employee had at the time of their separation.
B. Vacation Accrual Maximum
All employees working a 112 hours/pay period schedule shall be entitled to eam and accrue
up to and including four hundred and forty-eight (448) hours of vacation. No employee
working a 112 hours/pay period schedule will be allowed to earn and accrue vacation hours
in excess of the four hundred and forty-eight (448) hour maximum.
All employees working an 80 hours/pay period schedule shall be entitled to earn and accrue
up to and including three hundred and twenty (320) hours of vacation. No employee
working an 80 hours/pay period schedule will be allowed to earn and accrue vacation hours
in excess of the three hundred and twenty (320) hour maximum.
Department Heads will encourage the taking of accrued vacation leave. If there are unusual
circumstances that would require an employee to exceed the vacation accrual maximum,
he/she must submit a request in writing to the Fire Chief and the City Manager. The Fire
Chief and the City Manager may grant such a request if it is in the best interest of the city.
Requests will be handled on a case-by-case basis and will be considered only in extreme
circumstances.
C. Vacation Conversion
Each February, during a pay period to be determined by the City Manager or his/her
designee, all employees working a 112 hours/pay period schedule shall be allowed to
voluntarily convert up to one hundred twelve (112) hours of accrued vacation to cash,
provided that they have used at least one hundred twelve (112) hours of vacation during
the prior calendar year.
Each February, during a pay period to be determined by the City Manager or his/her
designee, all employees wprking an 80 hours/pay period schedule will be allowed to
voluntarily convert up to eighty (80) hours of accrued vacation to cash, provided that they
have used at least eighty (80) hours of vacation during the prior calendar year.
D. Effects of Holiday on Vacation Leave
For all employees who work an 80 hours/pay period schedule, in the event one or more
authorized municipal holidays fall within a vacation leave, such holiday shall not be
charged as vacation leave, but shall be credited as a holiday.
E. Effect of Leave of Absence on Accrual of Vacation Leave
,'\n employee's aee\:lffill-Jation of vacation leave will cease after the completion of two (2)
full sehedaled pay periods in which the employee has not received compensation dae to a
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Page 387
lea•re efaese!lee withe\lt pay. Ae6ftlal '•"*~ be reiastimtee begiaA:iag the eay t.fle emflleyee
ret\lms te werk.
See Article 33 for the effect of an extended leave of absence on vacation accrual.
F. Compensation for City Work During Vacation Prohibited
No person shall be permitted to work for compensation for the city in any capacity, except
compensation for mandated court appearances, during the time of his/her paid vacation
leave from city service. This clause shall not limit the city's right to recall an employee
from vacation in the event of an emergency and place him/her on regular pay status.
G. Scheduling Vacations
An employee may take his/her annual vacation leave at any time during the year, contingent
upon determination by his/her Department Head that such absence will not materiaJiy
affect the depattment. Each employee must consider the needs of the service when
requesting annual vacation leave. All vacation requests must be placed in Telestaff prior
to 1700 hrs the day before the Leave period. When a family emergency arises which
necessitates the use of vacation time, an employee shall provide as much advance notice
as possible considering the particular circumstances.
H. Terminal Vacation Pay
The dollar value of an employee's accrued vacation balance as of the employee's last day
on payroll shall be paid to the employee upon separation of employment at the
employee's base rate of pay at separation. A,a empleyee with regular stat\ls separaliag
&em the eit)' ser.,.iee '•¥he has aeemeEI vaeatiea lea .. ·e sl:!all be eal:itlea te tefffiinal pay ia
Jjeu ef S\leh ¥aeatiea. ~le leave ereffit ·.viii be e&FRee ea termjRelle>we paymeats. When
separation is caused by death of an employee, payment shaH be made to the estate of such
employee or, in applicable cases, as provided in the Probate Code of the State.
ARTICLE 12. SICK LEAVE ACCRUAL
All employees working a 112 hours/pay period schedule shall be entitled to accrue sick leave at a
rate of25 minutes per day. All other employees shall be entitled to accrue sick leave at a rate of
16 minutes per day. Sick leave is accrued on a daily basis. Sick leave can be used in 15 minute
increments.
A. Use of Sick Leave
Sick leave shall not be considered a right which an employee may use at his/her discretion. Sick
leave shall be allowed as follows:
1. In the case of actual illness or disability.
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Page 388
2. Exposure to contagious disease that would jeopardize the health of others. When
sick leave is granted under these circumstances, an explanatory medical certificate
from the physician is required.
3. A pre-scheduled doctor, dental, or optometry appointment has been entered into
and allowed by Telestaff.
4. Because illness of a member of the immediate family requires constant care and no
other care is available and/or financially feasible except that of the employee.
Immediate family is defined in the Personnel Rules.
5. All leave provisions will be administered consistent with stale and federal laws.
B. Proof of Illness
The Fire Chief may request a cettificate issued by a licensed physician or other satisfactory
proof of illness when abuse is suspected and/or when sick leave use is in excess of three
(3) consecutive work days. The Fire Chief may also designate a licensed physician to
conduct a physical examination, and such examination shall be conducted at city expense.
Employees shall be required to account for all hours they are requesting as sick leave via
TelestaiT. Violation of sick leave privileges may result in disciplinary action and/or loss
of pay when, in the opinion of the Fire Chief, the employee has abused such privileges.
C. Effect of Leave of Absence
:1\A em~leyee 's aeettmttlatiea ef siek lea¥e vliH eease after the eem~lelieft ef t·.ve (2) full
sekeEittleEI ~ay ~erieEis i:B •.vhieh the em~leyee has set reeeiYeEI eem~ensatieR Eltte te a leaYe
ef aesenee witkettt ~ay. Aeemal \'RH ee reiastitl:lteEI H~eR retttm te we ric See Article 33
for the effect of an extended leave of absence on sick leave accrual.
ARTICLE 13. BILINGUAL PAY
The city will provide additional compensation to an employee, designated by the Human
Resources Department, in the amount of $40.00 per pay period for the performance of bilingual
skills.
In order to qualify for and receive bilingual pay, employees must pass a bilingual proficiency test
in the Spanish language as determined appropriate by the city. The city reserves the right to include
other languages as eligible for bilingual pay at some future date. This article shall not be subject
to the grievance procedure.
ARTICLE 14. LINEN PROVISION, MAINTENANCE, AND REPLACEMENT
The city agrees to provide one set of bed linen and two towels per person for all personnel working
a 112 hours/pay period work schedule. To assist in maintenance, all fire stations will be equipped
8
Page 389
with washing machines and dryers; shift personnel will be responsible for maintaining their own
linens and towels.
The city agrees to replace linens and towels on an "as needed" basis, with a maximum replacement
of once per calendar year.
ARTICLE 15. FLEXIBLE BENEFITS PROGRAM
Employees represented by the CFA, Inc. will participate in a flexible benefits program
which includes medical insurance, dental insurance, vision insurance, accidental death and
dismemberment insurance (AD&D) and flexible spending accounts (FSAs).
A. Medical Insurance
During the term of this Agreement, represented employees will be covered by the Public
Employees' Medical and Hospital Care Act (PEMHCA) and will be eligible to patticipate
in the CalPERS Health Program. The city will pay on behalf of all employees covered by
this agreement and their eligible dependents and those retirees designated in Section D of
this Atticle, the minimum amount per month required under Government Code Section
22892 of the PEMI-ICA for medical insurance through the California Public Employees'
Retirement System (CalPERS).
If electing to enroll for medical benefits, the employee must select one medical plan from
the variety of medical plans offered through CalPERS. Effective the first full pay period
following City Council approval of this Memorandum, prospectively only, the city shall
contribute the following monthly amounts (called Benefits Credits) on behalf of each active
employee and eligible dependents toward the payment of 1) medical premiums under the
CalPERS health program, 2) city-sponsored dental, vision or AD&D premiums or 3)
contributions in the name of the employee to the city's flexible spending account(s):
(a) For employees with "employee only" coverage, the city shall contribute s*-five
hundred ninety-seven ($eG-7597) per month (eeereased froEB $657) that shall
include the mandatory payments to CalPERS. If the actual total premiums exceed
the city's total contributions, the employee will pay the difference.
(b) For employees with "employee plus one dependent" coverage, the city shall
contribute RiBe ttue€1-red seyeety oeeone thousand one hundred twenty-two
($97+l.122) (increased from $1,037) per month that shall include the mandatory
payments to CalPERS. If the actual total premiums exceed the city's total
contributions, the employee will pay the difference.
(c) For employees with "employee plus two or more dependents" coverage, the city
shall COntribute One thousand ORO auaeree SLX~)' eeefour hundred seventy-two
(~1,472) (increased from $1.240) per month that shall include the
mandatory payments to CalPERS. If the actual total premiums exceed the city's
total contributions, the employee will pay the difference.
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Page 390
(d) To provide CFA members with the value of this increase in Benefits Credits for
the pay periods that include the period between January 1, 2017 and ratification
of this Memorandum by the City Council, the City shall, with payroll. for the first
full pay period after ratification of this Memorandum by the Citv Council, make
a one-time taxable (non-PERSable) cash payment equal to the increase in
Benefits Credits for CF A members employed by the City on that date. The total
cash amount wiU depend on the employee's medical coverage level as of the pay
period that includes January l, 2017 and the number of pavroll periods in 2017
that occur between January 1. 2017 and ratification of this Memorandum.
The dollar amO\lflt paid by the city fer each coverage leYel (employee eRiy, employee pltis
one EiepeREleflt afiEi employee plas t\•,to or mere depeREieats) vvill change iR the pay period
t-hat iAel\lEies Jaa\lBFy I, 2015. The amel:lflt of tl!e change '+¥ill be EietermiAeEi by 1) taking
the average perceAtage change in premitimS fer all eftJ1e Ca:IPBRS HMO health plaRs fer
Jamtary l, 2015 BREi 2) \lSiRg J:Jalfefthis percentage change te EletefffliAe the iRcrease or
Eieerease te the pre·,.ie\ls calendar year's moRthly city eoRtrietitiofl for eaeh coverage le·t'el
~need to t:Re Hearest wfl.ole dollar amoliDt). Then, the city eoHtrie\llioH for the employee
only coverage level wlll be decreased by twenty five ($25) per meRtl:l.
The Elollar amo\lRt paid by tl:le city for each co,•erage level (employee ofl:ly, employee pltis
one ElepeREleRt and employee pltis t\ve or mere depeRdeRts) w4Jl change ifl the pay period
that iRelt~Eies Jan\lafy I' 201 a. The amellilt ef the el:lange \¥ill be EleteFFRiaeEl by l) taJEing
t:B.e average perceatage el:laage in premiams fer all of the Ca:IPERS HMO J:lealth pleBs for
JaB\18:1)' I' 201 a and 2) \lSiag J:ialf of this perceatage cl:lange to Eleteffflifte the iRerease or
Eleerease te the flFeviet~s caleadar year's meathly city eeRtriet~tien fer eaeh ee·t'erage leYel
(reliDEleEi te the Rearest whole Elollar amoi:Hlt). Thea, the city eoRtribt~tien fer the employee
eoly CO\'erage le'>'el wtll be deereaseEI by twenty fi·,•e ($25) per meRI:h.
Effective the pay periods that include January l, 2018 and January l , 2019 -City monthly
benefit credits associated with each coverage level will be set to dollar amounts that equate
to 80% of the average health (medical, dental and vision) premium for Employee,
Employee Plus One and Family coverage levels, rounded to the nearest whole dollar based
on the premiums that will take effect on January l of the respective calendar year.
If the amount contributed by the city (Benefits Credits) exceeds the cost of the medical
insurance purchased by the employee, the "unused credits" will be applied towards the cost
of the employee's purchase of dental insurance, vision insurance, AD&D insmance, and
contributions to a healthcare or dependent care flex ible spending account (FSA).
Remaining unused Benefits Credits will be paid to the employee in cash and repotted as
taxable income.
B. Dental Insurance, Vision Insurance and Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D)
Insurance
Employees may elect to purchase or waive city-sponsored dental, vision or AD&D
insurance plans. If the decision is made to purchase one or more of these insurance plans,
an employee may purchase them at any level of coverage offered by the plan.
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Page 391
C. Retirees
Each retired employee who was a member of tills bargaining unit is covered by the Public
Employees' Medical and Hospital Care Act and is eligible to participate in the California
Public Employees' Retirement System (CalPERS) Health Program. Represented
employees who retire from the city, either service or disability, shall be eligible to continue
their enrollment in the CalPERS Health Program when they retire, provided that the
individual is enrolled or eligible to enroll in a CalPERS medical plan at the time of
separation from employment and their effective date of retirement is within 120 days of
separation. The city will contribute the minimum amount per month required under
Government Code Section 22892 of the PEMHCA toward the cost of each retiree's
enrollment in the CalPERS Health Program.
Employees who retire from the city, either service or disability, shall be eligible to continue
to participate in the city's dental and/or vision insurance programs. The cost of such dental
and/or vision insurance for the retiree and eligible dependents shall be borne solely by the
retiree. The city shall not charge the COBRA administrative cost to the retirees. A retiree
who does not choose continued coverage upon retirement, or drops coverage, is only
eligible to return to the city's dental and vision insurance program during open enrollment
periods.
The city will invoice the retiree for his/her monthly premiums for dental and/or vision
insurance and the retiree must keep such payments current to ensure continued coverage.
D. Opt Out Provision
CF A represented employees who do not wish to participate in the CalPERS Health
Program will have the choice of waiving the city's medical insurance, provided they can
show that they are covered under another group insurance plan.
Employees who waive city-sponsored medical insurance will be given a reduced city
contribution amount (Benefits Credits) of two hundred fifty-sixty-seven ($~267) per
month to be used toward the purchase of dental insurance, vision insurance, AD&D
insurance or as a contribution to a flexible spending account. The city contribution amount
of two hundred fifty-sixty-seven ($~267) per month will be granted to any employee
who elects to waive the CalPERS Health Program and who provides proof of other medical
insurance coverage, regardless of the employee's level of coverage (employee only,
employee plus one dependent, employee plus two or more dependents).
Effective the pay period that includes January 1, 2018, the City monthly benefit credits
associated with waiving medical coverage will be set equal to 50% of the benefit credits
associated with Employee Only medical coverage level.
The Elellar emeoot paiEI by the eity fer empleyees wile ""'aive eity speMereEI meEiiea!
ias~:~FaAee will ehange ie the pay perieEI that mei~:~Eies Jansary I, 2015. The ameoot ef the
elumge '>'All be EletennieeEI by 1) taki:eg the Ewerage pereeatege ehaRge is premi~:~ms fer all
efthe Ga!PBRS liMO health plans fer Jael:lat)' I, 2015 aaEI2) ~:~siag halfefthis pereeRtage
II
Page 392
change to deteFHJ:iae the iacrease or decrease to the previol:!S caleadar year's moflthly city
coatrib1:1tioa (ro1:1aded to the nearest 'Nhole dollar amo1:1nt).
The dollar amo1:1at paid by the city for employees who 'Naive city spofl5ored medical
iasl:lfance \Nill change in the pay period that iac!l:ldes Jan1:1ary 1, 2016. The amo1:1nt of the
chaflge will be deteffflined by 1) taking the average perceatage change ie prerei1:1ms for all
of the CalPERS HM"O health plaes for Jaftl:laf)' 1 , 20 16 and 2) l:lsing half of this perceetage
change to determine the iacrease or decrease to the pre¥io1:1s caleadar year's reoathly city
contrib1:1tion (ro1:1B:ded to the flearest whole dollar amount).
Unused Benefits Credits will be paid to the employee in cash and reported as taxable
income.
ARTICLE 16. HOLIDAYS
The city shall observe the following scheduled paid holidays, consistent with the annual holiday
schedule published by the Human Resources Department:
New Year's Day
Martin Luther King Jr.'s Birthday
President's Bi1tbday
Memorial Day
Independence Day
Labor Day
Columbus Day
Veteran's Day
Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving Friday
Christmas Day
OB:e (1) Floating Holiday (shall be eliminated in: 2015)
Employees working a 112 hours/pay period schedule shall be compensated for twelve (12) hours
of holiday pay (using a base salary rate that excludes additional pays) on the day the holiday occurs.
See Article 33 for the effect of an extended leave of absence on holiday pay.
The holiday pay associated with the floatiag holiday will be corepeasated OB: t\pril 15 for those
etnployees who are employed ·.vith the city oa that day l:latil it is elimiaated effective April 15,
2015 and no floating holiday pay shall be provided Aprill5, 2015.
Employees working an 80 hours/pay period schedule will observe the scheduled paid holidays
listed above, and '<¥ill be allo·.ved to 1:1se the floating holiday (accreed oa Jttly 1, 2014 1:1etil it is
eliminated effecti·,•e J1:1ly 1, 2015) at the discretioB: of the employee 1:1poB: prior approval of the
DepartmeB:t Head. Only employees who are on paid status on their scheduled work day
immediately before a holiday shall be entitled to the paid holiday.
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Page 393
ARTICLE 17. RETIREMENT BENEFITS
17.1 The city has contracted with CalPERS for the following retirement benefits:
• Safety Tier 1 -(employees entering safety membership for the first time prior to October
4, 2010)-The retirement formula shall be 3%@ 50; single highest year final
compensation.
• Safety Tier 2 -(employees entering safety membership for the first time on or after
October 4, 2010)-The retirement formula shall be 2%@ 50; three year average final
compensation.
Employees who are "New Members" as defined by the California Public Employees' Pension
Reform Act of2013 (PEPRA) (e.g., an employee hired on or after 11112013 who has never been
a CalPERS member or member of a reciprocal system or who has had a break in CalPERS
service of at least 6 months or more) will constitute a third tier and be subject to all the
applicable PEPRA provisions, which include but are not limited to the following retirement
benefits:
• Safety Tier 3-The retirement formula shall be 2.7%@ 57; three year average final
compensation.
17 .2. Employee Retirement Contribution
The employee retirement contribution will be made on a pre-tax basis by implementing
provisions of section 414(h)(2) of the Internal Revenue Code (IRC).
Employees shall make the following employee retirement contributions through payroll
deductions:
• Tier 1 and Tier 2 safety employees shall pay all of the employee retirement
contribution (9%).
• Tier 3 safety employees shall pay one half of the normal cost rate associated with the ·
3rd tier.
17.3. If the Employer Paid Member Contributions (EPMC) ever is greater than zero, the city
will report the value of the EPMC as additional (special) compensation to CalPERS for all local
fire employees designated as "classic CalPERS members."
ARTICLE 18. PROVISION OF 1959 PERS SURVIVORS' BENEFIT
The city agrees to provide the Fourth Level of the 1959 Survivors' Benefit.
ARTICLE 19. OVERTIME AND COMPENSATORY TIME
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Page 394
In determining an employee's eligibility for overtime, paid leaves shall be included in the total
hours worked. Excluded from the total hours worked are duty free lunches, travel time to and from
work (except for emergency call-back), and time spent conducting bona fide volunteer activities.
There shaJI be no pyramiding of overtime. Hours worked by an employee in any workday or
workweek on which premium rates have once been allowed shall not be used again in any other
overtime caJculation other than computing total actual hours worked.
Time worked shall be computed by rounding to the nearest quarter of an hour.
Definition of Fire Suppression and Fire Prevention Employees
Employees in the classifications listed below are considered Fire Suppression Employees.
Firefighter
Paramedic Firefighter
Fire Engineer
Fire Captain
Captain Specialist
Employees in all other classifications represented by CF A, Inc. are considered Fire Prevention
Employees.
A. EMPLOYEES WORKING A 112 HOURIPA Y PERIOD SCHEDULE:
1. Overtime
lB a66areaRe6 with s6etiea 7(lc) efthe fai:r Laaer Ste:Aeares l\et, the effieial7 eay
't\'9FIE periee fer empleyees 'NB9 werk a 112 ee\:lf/pay periee S6ReGI:ll6 aegiBS 9B
Meaeay at 7:3Qa.m. aae enEis the fellevliRg Meneay at 7:29a.m.
The City of Carlsbad may elect to use a 24-day work cycle for fire suppression
employees under the 7Ck) exemptions contained in the Fair Labor Standards Act.
The "work period" shall be twenty-four (24) days in length. The "work schedule"
is to be based on a ftfty-six (56) hour average workweek. Premium pay, one and
one-half (I 1/2) times the normal rate of pay, shall be paid for all hours in excess
of the FLSA guidelines in each work period. IThe FLSA guidelines permit 182
hours per 24 day work period to be paid at the regular rate of pay for fire
suppression employees.) Therefore, each fire suppression employee on a I 12
hour/pay period schedule (or on a modified duty IOD-related work schedule) will
earn six (6) hours of premium pay in each biweekly pay period.
In addition, Afty-any employee required to perform ia e>E66SS ef53 ae\:lfs ia a 7
ea~· eyele aeeler in excess of an employee's normal scheduled shift shall receive
compensation at the rate of time and one-half his/her regular rate of pay.
The regular rate of pay shall be calculated in conformance with the FLSA.
14
Page 395
B. EMPLOYEES WORKING AN 80 HOURS/PAY PERIOD SCHEDULE:
1. Overtime
The official 7-day FLSA work week for employees on a 9/80 Friday to Friday shift
begins four (4) hours after the regularly scheduled starting time for their Friday
shift and ends one hundred sixty eight (168) hours later (at four (4) hours after the
regularly scheduled starting time for their Friday shift). For all others who work an
80 hour/pay period schedule the FLSA work week is from Monday at 12:00 a.m.
to Sunday at 11 :59 p.m.
Any employee required to perform in excess of 40 hours in their 7 day FLSA work
week or in excess of an employee's normal scheduled day shall receive
compensation at the rate of time and one-half his/her regular rate of pay except as
outlined in Section 3 below.
_____ The regular rate of pay shall be calculated in conformance with the FLSA.
2. Compensatory Time
In lieu of receiving overtime pay pursuant to Section 1 above, a Fire Prevention
employee may elect, subject to department approval, to receive compensatory time
off on a time and one-half basis. No employee shall accrue more than 80 hours of
such compensatory time. Should any employee exceed 80 hours of accrued
compensatory time, he/she shall be paid at time and one-half his/her regular rate.
An employee may use such compensatory time within a reasonable period after
making the request if the use of compensatory time does not unduly disrupt the
operations of the department.
An employee may elect to "cash out" any portion of hi s/her accrued compensatory
time at his/her regular rate of pay in any pay period. The employee shall indicate
the number of hours to be cashed out on his/her timeshcct..
3. Request for Temporary Shift Adjustment (Flex Time)
An employee on an 80-hour shift may request that the employee's normal workday
be temporarily altered in order to accumulate a credit of work hours that may be
used to take time off during the employee's FLSA work week without loss of pay.
If the request is approved by management, pay for hours worked during this
temporary shift adjustment shall be paid at the straight time rate even if the
employee's hours worked exceed his/her normal scheduled shift on that day.
Overtime will still be paid if the employee works in excess of 40 hours during
his/her FLSA work week.
ARTICLE 20. FLEXIBLE WORK SCHEDULES
15
Page 396
Employees hired by divisions currently operating on an alternative work schedule shaH be subject
to having their daily work schedule changed at the sole discretion of the department. Such changes
include, but are not limited to, a) number of days/hours to be worked on a daily basis and in a
payroll period; b) normal days off; and c) starting/ending times of assigned shifts. Suppression
employees temporarily assigned to light duty will be assigned to the 9/80 work schedule referenced
below or a traditional 5/40 work schedule. This article shall not be subject to the grievance
procedure.
9/80 Alternative Work Schedule:
The parties acknowledge that they met and conferred in good faith over the terms and conditions
for implementation of a 9/80 work schedule. The result of that meeting and conferring is reflected
in the City of Carlsbad's Administrative Order No. 57, by which the parties will control
implementation of the 9/80 schedule. This ruticle shall not be subject to the grievance procedure.
ARTICLE 21. AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT
The parties acknowledge the applicability of the Arnericru1s With Disabilities Act (ADA) and
intend to apply and implement this MOU so as to comply with the ADA. The parties agree to
consult if compliance with the ADA may require modifying the provisions of this MOU.
ARTICLE 22. FAMILY LEAVE ACT
The parties acknowledge the applicability of the Frunily Leave Act (Act) and intend to apply and
implement this MOU so as to comply with the Act. The parties agree to consult if compliance
with the Act may require modifying the provisions of this MOU.
ARTICLE 23. DISCIPLINE OF AN EMPLOYEE
23.1 Authority -Full authority for discipline is retained by the city. The city may discipline a
regular employee for just cause. In appropriate cases the city will use progressive
disciplinary practices.
23.2 Representation-An employee attending any investigatory or fact-finding meeting which
may result directly in discipline, reduction in pay, suspension, demotion or discharge
shall be allowed representation.
23.3 Grounds for Discipline -The city has the authority to impose appropriate discipline upon
any represented employee for cause. Discipline shall be commensurate with the
seriousness of the offense and with consideration of the employee's prior performance
and disciplinary record. Grounds for discipline may include but are not limited to the
following:
16
Page 397
(1) Fraud in securing employment including untruthfulness, misrepresentation or
omission of information.
(2) Incompetence, neglect of duty, willful disobedience, insubordination, tardiness,
working unauthorized overtime, public disclosure of privileged information or
dishonestv.
(3) Failure to maintain certification and licenses required by law or the Fire
Department.
( 4) Being under the influence of alcohol or intoxicating drugs while on duty.
(5) Unauthorized absence without leave.
(6) Criminal conviction having some relevance to the job.
(7) Intentionally being discourteous to the public.
(8) Unauthorized use of or neglect of city property.
(9) Abuse of sick leave.
(1 0) Unauthorized outside employment that constitutes a conflict of interest.
(11) Acceptance of a gift or gratuity that constitutes a willful conflict of interest.
(12) Falsification of any citv report or record.
(13) Willful violation of any of the provisions of the City Code, ordinances.
resolutions or any rules, regulations or policies which may be prescribed by the
Citv Council. City Manager, Fire Chief, or supervisor.
(14) Political activities precluded by State or Federal law.
(15) Other acts that are incompatible with service to the public.
(16) Failure to respond to questions or otherwise fail to participate during an
investigation conducted bv the city or its agents.
23.4 Firefighter Bill of Rights Procedures-The following appeals procedures are adopted
pursuant to Government Code Section 3254.5 of the California Firefighter Procedural
Bill of Rights Act (FBOR) and shall apply to any administrative appeal of a punitive
action that is required to be afforded to a frrefighter under the Act.
Prior to taking punitive action involving discipline, suspension without pay, reduction in
pay, demotion or discharge, the employee shall be given notice of the action to be taken,
the effective date for such action, the evidence or materials upon which the action is
based, and notified of his/her right to be represented by an attorney or other
representative at further proceedings.
23.5 Pre-Discipline Process-The employee will be given an opportunity to respond to the Fire
Chief either orally or in writing, provided the employee requests the opportunity within
seven (7) calendar days of the notice of the intended action.
If the employee or his/her designated representative requests the right to respond to the
proposed punitive action, imposition of proposed punitive action shall be deferred until
after the response is received by the Fire Chief.
It is the Fire Chief's responsibility to coordinate the scheduling of the conference within
fow1een (14) consecutive days of the employee's request. The Fire Chief or designee
17
Page 398
shall be responsible for receiving the employee's and/or his/her representative's response
to the proposed discipline. The conference shall be conducted informally and shall be
limited to the presentation of information by and through the employee and/or his/her
representative in response to the charges and allegations set forth in the notice of
proposed discipline.
In the event the employee is unable to respond to the charges within the time permitted
and demonstrates the reasonableness of a need for a continuance, the presiding officer
may grant a continuance of up to an additional five (5) calendar days.
The time limits described herein are essential and may only be modified or enlarged by
mutual consent of both the employee and the Fire Chief or his/her designee.
The above process will occur prior to the imposition of the discipline.
23.6 Notice of Discipline-After conclusion of the pre-disciplinary conference and within 30
days of the department's final decision. but not less than forty-eight (48) hours prior to
imposing discipline, the Fire Chief shall notify the employee in writing of the nature and
extent of the discipline. if any, and the time of commencement thereof. The notice shall
also contain a statement of charges which shall set forth the acts or omissions with which
the employee is charged in order that the employee will be able to prepare his/her
defense. Also. the notice shall specify the city rules. regulations, policies and procedures
which the employee is alleged to have violated.
The notice of discipline shall also advise the employee of his/her right to request an
appeal hearing by fi ling a Notice of Appeal as provided under section 23.7 below. The
Notice of Appeal must be filed within 15 days after service upon the employee of the
Notice of Discipline. Failure to request an appeal hearing within the 15 day period, will
constitute waiver of the employee's right of appeal. The Notice of Discipline shall be
served personally on the employee with a proof of service noticed and retained by the
department.
23.7 Right to Appeal -An employee has the right to appeal punitive action according to the
appeal procedure as set out below. Written notice of discipline shall inform and remind
the disciplined employee of this ri!!:ht. A probationary employee (entry level or
promotional) rejected during the probationary period shall not be entitled to appeal such
rejection via the appeals process.
23.8 Appeal of Punitive Action Not Involving Discharge, Demotion. Reduction in Pay or
Suspension
The City shall follow the Firefighter Procedural Bill of Rights except where hereinafter
noted. The CF A waives the formal appeal of punitive action not involving discharge,
demotion, reduction in pay or suspension (e.g. written reprimands)·and agrees to the
following procedures in which the Fire Chief, or his/her designee, shall issue a binding
decision for such discipline.
18
Page 399
A. Notice of Appeal -Within seven (7) calendar days of receipt of the notice of discipline, a
regular employee shall notify the Fire Chief in writing of the employee's intent to appeal
the punitive action. The notice of appeal shall specify the action being appealed and the
substantive and procedural grounds for the appeal.
B. Presiding Officer -In an informal hearing, the Fire Chief or his/her designee shall be the
presiding officer. If the Fire Chief or designee cannot serve as the hearing officer because
of actual bias, prejudice or interest as defined by Government Code §11425.40, then the
City Manager or his/her designee shall serve as the Presiding Officer. In such cases, the
determination of the City Manager shall be final and binding.
C. Burden of Proof-The city shall bear the burden of proof at the informal hearing. Based
upon a preponderance of the evidence, the Department shall show that the action taken
against the employee was reasonable according to the FBOR.
D. Conduct of Hearing
1. The formal rules of evidence do not apply, although the Presiding Officer shall have
discretion to exclude evidence which is incompetent, irrelevant or cumulative, or the
presentation of which will otherwise consume undue time.
2. The parties may present opening statements.
3. The parties may present evidence through documents and testimony. Any witnesses
shall testifV under oath.
4. Unless the punitive action involves a loss of compensation. the parties shall not be
entitled to confront and cross-examine witnesses.
5. Following the presentation of evidence, if any, the parties may submit oral and/or
written closing arguments for consideration by the Presiding Officer.
E. Recording of the Hearing-All hearings may be recorded. If the punitive action involves
the loss of compensation, then the hearing shall be electronically recorded with both
parties receiving a copy of the record.
F. Representation-The firefighter may be represented by an association representative or
attorney of his or her choice at all stages of the proceedings. All costs associated with
such representation shall be borne by the firefighter.
G. Decision-The written decision shall be served in person to the firefighter when practical.
The firefighter shall acknowledge receipt in writing and shall be informed that the time
within which judicial review must be sought is governed by Code of Civil Procedure
§ 1094.6. In the event the decision cannot be delivered in person, the decision will be
delivered to the employee and his/her attorney or representative by first class mail,
19
Page 400
postage prepaid, accompanied by an affidavit or certificate of mailing, and shall advise
the firefighter that the time within which judicial review of the decision may be sought.
23.9 Appeal Procedure for any Punitive Action Involving Discharge, Demotion, Reduction of
Pay or Suspension
A formal appeal procedure shall be available for a disciplinary action involving
discharge, demotion. reduction in pay or suspension of more than five days. The
administrative appeal shall be conducted in accordance with Chapter 5 (commencing
with Section 11500) of Part 1 ofDivision 3 ofTitle 2 of the California Government
Code. The city will bear all administrative costs associated with a formal appeal of
discipline and the subsequent hearing: including the presiding officer. court reporter and
transcription costs, if any. The employee or employee organization will be responsible for
the cost of his or her own representation or attorney fees and preparation documents.
A. Notice of Discipline as Accusation-The fmal notice of discipline which may be issued
at the conclusion of any pre-disciplinary procedures shall serve as the Accusation as
described in Government Code §§ 11500, et seq. The notice shall be prepared and served
in conformity with the requirements of Government Code§§ 11500, et seq.
1. If. afier investigation and any pre-disciplinary response or procedure, the fire
department or city decides to impose discipline. the department or the city shall
notify the firefighter in writing of its decision to impose discipline within thirty
(30) days of its decision. but not less than 48 hours prior to imposing the
discipline.
2. The notice shall be prepared and served within the timeframes specified in
Government Code Section 3254(d) and in conformity with the requirements of
Government Code §§ 11500, et seq. A copy of Chapter 5 (commencing with
Section 11500) ofPart 1 ofDivision 3 ofTitle 2 of the California Government
Code shall be provided to the firefighter concurrently with the notice of
discipline.
B. Burden of Proof-The burdens of proof and production of evidence shall be borne by
the city. The standard of proof shall be by a preponderance of the evidence.
C. Evidence-Rules of evidence shall comply with Chapter 5, Section 11513 of the
Government Code.
D. The appeal proceedings shall be reported by a stenographic reporter. However, upon
the consent of all the parties, the proceedings may be reported electronically.
E. The formal appeal shall be presided over by an administrative law judge on staff of
the State Office of Administrative Hearings, hereafter referred to as the "ALJ". The
ALJ shall preside at the appeal bearing. rule on the admission and exclusion of
evidence and determine and rule on all matters of law both procedural and
20
Page 401
substantive. In conducting the appeal hearing the ALl shall follow the provisions set
forth above.
F. Within thirty (30) days after the case is submitted to him or her. the ALJ shall prepare
a proposed written decision to be submitted to the City Manager. Within I 00 days of
receipt by the City Manager of the ALJ's proposed decision, the City Manager may
take any of the following actions:
(a) Adopt the proposed decision in its entirety.
(b) Reduce or otherwise mitigate the proposed penalty and adopt the balance of the
proposed decision.
(c) Make technical or other minor changes in the proposed decision and adopt it as
the decision. Action by the City Manager under this paragraph is limited to a
clarifying change or a change of a similar nature that does not affect the factual or
legal basis of the proposed decision.
(d) Reject the proposed decision and refer the case to the same ALJ if reasonably
available, otherwise to another ALJ, to take additional evidence. If the case is
referred to the ALJ pursuant to this subparagraph, he or she shall prepare a revised
proposed decision based on the additional evidence and the transcript and other
papers that are part of the record of the prior appeal hearing. A copy of the revised
proposed decision shall be furnished decision shall be served to each party and his
or her attorney.
(e) Reject the proposed decision. and decide the case upon the record, including the
transcript, or upon an agreed statement of the parties, with or without taking
additional evidence. By stipulation of the parties the City Manager may decide the
case upon the record without including the transcript.
(f) The City Manager's decision will be reduced to writing and shall be final and
binding on the parties. The City Manager's written decision shall be served on the
parties in accordance with Code of Civil Procedure section J 094.6 Government
Code 11518 and the decision shall be subject to judicial review pursuant to Code of
Civil Procedure section 1 094.5/Government Code.
23.1 The eity l'flay Eliseipline a regala-r el'l'lflloyee forj~:~st ea~:~se. In the ease ofEliseiplinary aetion
iR\'Olving SI:!Speesioe witho1:1t pa~·, Elemotioe OF Eliseharge, the ernployee shall ee gi¥en
notiee of tche aetioe to Be tekee, the e•riaeeee Or materials l:lpOA whieJ:i the aetioe is eases,
a:nEl aA opport1:1nity to respoaEl to the Fire Chief eitller orally or ia writing, JilFO¥iElee the
ernployee reEII:Iests the OJilpoft:l:laity withffi se>ree (7) ealeeElar clays of the eotiee of the
aetion. The above proeess will oeei:H' 13rior to the imposition ofthe Elisei).:lliae.
23.2 eneept as proYiEleEl i:e Seet:ioa 23.3, aa employee has the right to appeal Giseipline
aeeordieg to the appeal proeeei:H'e as set o1:1t below. Written Aotiee of Giseipli:Ae shall
ieferrn aaEl rereiaEl the Giseipliaee ereJ:lloyee of t:B:is right.
21
Page 402
23.3
23.4
23.5
23.6
23.7
Hea:mg Offi~er. !he eft1:19loyee or effifJloyee orgaBi:Mtioa Bfld the city agree that t:he
~dvtsory. heanag wtll be .coa~ueted before a heariag officer selected by the parties fro
list proVided by the Cahfonua State Mediatioa aBd Coaciliation Service. If the:::. a
car.not a1utually agre.e Oil the hearing officer t:he~· •,'fillHse a strikeoHt procedHre usin~: Ji:~
of seven 11~es provtded by the California State Mediatioa aBd Coaeiliatioa Servia:. The
appellaat ·.vtll have the prerogative of strikiflg the first aame.
The city ·.vill be~ al~ adm~strative costs associated with aa appeal of discipliae and the
subsequeat hearmg; mcludtng the heariag officer, court reporter Bfld traBscriptioa costs if ~ '
The etnplo~ee or employee organi::Mtioa will be respoasible fur the cost of his or her o··~
represeatatioa or attorney fees Bfld preparatioa of documeats. "'·
A b . '• ~ro atwaary empl~yee (entry level or promotioaal) rejected duriag the probatioaar .
penod shall11ot be elltttled to appeal such rejectioa to the Heariag Officer. ;
Right of Apeeal. Withi11 seve11 f!) calendar days of receipt of the aotice of discipline, a
re~ar .e~ployee shall have the. nght to appeal to the Hearing Officer diseiplillaf)' actioa eJ<c~t tn mstances where the nght of appeal is speeifically prohibited by the Pe so j
OrdmaBce or PersoflflOl Rl:l:!es, or this Article. ;: flflO
Method ofAp13eal. ~ppeals shall be ia writing, sigaed by the employee, aad filed ·.vitb the
Humaa .~-esources DH'e~tor, who shall, withi~ tea (I 0) caleaEiar days after receipt of the
~~~al, Hlform th~ Heanag Officer ~f ti:e aet10a ElesireEI by the ea1ployee aad the reasoas
.. h;y. The formality of a legal pleaeltag ts aot reqBired.
l'Toti~e. Upoa the filing of an appeal, the HuraaB Resources Director v;iU set a date :fur the
hea:rmg oathe appealao~ less than tea (10) ealeadar Elays aor more tliafl thirty (30) calendar
Ela;rs from the date o~ filmg, tl~ess the parties mtltl:Jally agree to a later hearing Elate. The
HtlffiaB ~sot1rces Dtrector wtll aotify all interested parties of the date time BflEI place of
the hearmg. ' '
~ea~ag~. Ualess physical~y unable to do so, the employee must appear persoaally be:fure
t e eana~ Officer at the tuBe and plaee of the heariag. The employee may be represented
at the heartag by aay per~oa or attomey the eft1:19loyee selects aad rnay produce aay relevaat
oral or. docu~atary evtdeace: The city will state its ease first Bfld, at the cofl:clBsioa,
empl?;ree ~a; thea prese~ evtdeace. Rebuttal evideace sot repetitiYe may be allowed in
the dtserettoa of the Heana~ Officer.. Cross e>latninatioa of vii messes vfi 11 be penBitted.
T~e eoaEiuet aBd Eleeorum of the heanag v;ill be uader the coatrol of the Hearincr Offi
wtth . dt1e regard to the rights aBEl priv~eges of the parties appeariag be:fure
0 h~:::
~~an11gs aeed ~ot be. condueteEI aceorEIJ:Rg to tecJ:tnieal rHies relatiBg to evidenee aad
.. tmesses. ~ea:'a:~ ~~II be closeEI Wlless at least ~ar (4) basiaess Elays prior to the hearing
the e.mployee, 1,a tlfltlag, requ~sts an opefl: heartng. If either party disagrees vlith the
Heart~g Officers reeommeadattoa, tkat party may appealvlithin ten (10) cale d d . the Ctty Maaager. ;l ar ays to
22
Page 403
23.8 findings and Recommendations. The Hearing Officer '>\'ill, withffi: ten (10) calendar days
after ilie conclt:tsion of the heariHg, certify histher findings and decisions in vrriting to tM
City Manager and to the employee. The City Manager ·.vill review tee fmdings and
recommendations of the Hearing Officer and may theH afflflft, rer;oke or modify tb:e actiofl
taken as, in the City Manager's jt:tdgment, seems warranted, aHd tb:e action taken will be
fieal. The Hearing Officer may submit a l'l'l:iaerity er Sl:lflplemental fiading and
recemmendatiefl.
23.9 Timeliees. Any ofthe above timelines may be modified by Hllffilal agreement ofthe parties.
The parties l:lflderstand that these timeliees may Heed to be modified for reasons oat of the
control of either the city or CFA.
23.1 0 A. Gre1:1:ads Fer Discif3liee
The city has the authority te impose appropriate discipline l:lflOH any represented employee
for cause. DiscipliAe shall be cemmensl:lfate with the serio~:~sness of the offense and with
consieeratien of the employee's prier performaHce and disciplinary record. Groands for
diseiplifle may inclt:tde bt:tt are aot limiteEI to fue follo·.ving:
(l) Frat:td ia secl:lfing employment incl1:1ding l:!:Btruthfulness, misrepresentatiee or
omissiea of iflformation.
(2) Incompetence, eeglect of dt:tty, willful disobedience, insllbordiRation, tardiaess,
'NeriEing t:tR:aathorized overtime, p~:~blic disclosl:lfe of privileged iflformatien or
Elishoeesty.
(3) Faill:lfe to maintain certificatioe and licenses required by law or the Fire
Department.
(4) .Beieg t:tnder the inflaence of alcohol or intOJcicating drugs while on dt:tty.
(5) Ueauilierized absence withot:tt leave.
(6) Criminal conrf'ietion haviag some relevance to the job.
(7) lfltefltioM:lly beieg discoi:IFteol:ls to the public.
(8) UnauthorizeEI use of or neglect of city property.
(9) Abuse of sielc leave.
(1 0) Unauthorized ot:ttside employment that coestitt:ttes a conflict of iflterest.
(ll) Acceptanee of a gift or g1·atuity that eonstitt:ttes a willfud conflict of interest.
(12) Falsification of any city report or record.
(13) Willful •tiolation of any ofthe provisions of the City Code, ordinances,
resolutions or aey wles, regulatieas or policies which rnay be prescribed by the
City Co~:~ncil, City Manager, Fire Chief, or st:tpervisor.
(14) Political activities preeh:tded by State or Federal law.
(15) Other acts that are incompatible ·.vith service to tile publi:e.
(16) Faill:lfe to respond to questions or otherwise fail to patticipate eluri:ag ;m
im•estigation conducted by the city er its agents.
The city will abide by the Firefighters Bill of Rights.
23
Page 404
ARTICLE 24. GRIEVANCE PROCEDURE
24.1 A grievance is an allegation made by an employee that the employee has been
damaged or denied a benefit by the city due to misapplication or a mistaken
interpretation of a specific provision of this Agreement, the city's Personnel Rules
or, effective no later than January 1, 2009, any existing Fire Department Directive
which falls within the subject matter contained in the scope of bargaining set forth in
the Meyers, Milias Brown Act.
24.2 Reviewable and Non-Reviewable Grievances
24.2.1
24.2.2
To be reviewable under this procedure a grievance must:
(a) Concern matters or incidents that have occurred.
(b) Result from an act or omission by management regarding
working conditions or other matters contained in this
Agreement over which the Fire Chief has control.
(c) Arise out of a specific situation, act, or acts which result in
damage to the employee.
(d) Arise out of a misinterpretation or misapplication of this
Agreement.
A grievance is not reviewable under this procedure:
(a) If it is a matter which would require a modification of a policy
established by City Council or by law;
(b) Is reviewable under some other administrative procedure
and/or rules of the City of Carlsbad (See, e.g., Article 24
Discipline), such as:
(1) Applications for changes in title, job classification, or
salary.
(2) Appeals from formal disciplinary proceeding.
(3) Appeals from work performance evaluations.
24.3 Special Grievance Procedure Provisions: The following special provisions apply to
the grievance procedure.
24
Page 405
24.3.1
24.3.2
24.3.3
24.3.4
24.3.5
24.3.6
24.3.7
24.3.8
24.3.9
24.3.10
Procedure for Presentation: In presenting a grievance, an employee
shall follow the sequence and the procedure outlined in Section 25.4 of
this procedure.
Prompt Presentation: The employee shall discuss the grievance with an
immediate supervisor promptly after (i.e., when grievant knew or should
have known) the act or omission of management caused the grievance.
Prescribed Form: The written grievance shall be submitted on a form
prescribed by the Human Resources Director for this purpose.
Statement of Grievance: The grievance shall contain a statement of:
(a) The specific facts or actions, including dates, which constitute the
basis for the grievance.
(b) The article that was misapplied or misinterpreted.
(c) The damage suffered by the employee.
(d) The relief sought.
Employee Representative: The employee may choose someone as a
representative at any step in the procedure. No person hearing a
grievance need recognize more than one representative for any one time,
unless he/she so desires.
Interested Parties: Interested parties may provide information during
the hearing of the grievance at any step of the grievance procedure.
Handled During Working Hours: Whenever possible, grievances will
be handled during regularly scheduled working hours.
Extension of Time: The time limits within which action must be taken
or a decision made as specified in this procedure may be extended by
mutual written consent of the parties involved. A statement of the
duration of such extension of time must be signed by both parties
involved at the step to be extended.
Consolidation of Grievances: If the grievance involves a group of
employees or if a number of employees file separate grievances on the
same matter, the grievances may be handled as a single grievance.
Settlement: Any grievance shall be considered settled at the completion
of any step if the grievant is satisfied or if the grievant does not appeal
the matter to a higher authority within the prescribed time.
25
Page 406
24.3.11 Reprisal: The grievance procedure is intended to assure a grieving
employee the right to present a grievance without fear of disciplinary
action or reprisal, provided the provisions of the grievance procedure
are observed. Copies of grievance forms will not be placed in employee
personnel records but will be maintained in separate files in the Human
Resources Department.
24.4 Grievance Procedure Steps: The following procedure shall be followed by an
employee submitting a grievance for consideration and action.
24.4.1
24.4.2
24.4.3
24.4.4
Discussion With Supervisor: The employee shall discuss the grievance
with the employee's immediate supervisor informally. Within seven (7)
calendar days, the supervisor shall give a decision to the employee
verbally.
Step 1: If the employee and the supervisor cannot reach an agreement
to resolve the grievance, the employee may within seven (7) calendar
days present the grievance in writing to the supervisor. The supervisor
shall memorialize the prior verbal decision on the grievance and present
the grievance to the next-level supervisor within seven (7) calendar
days.
The next-level supervisor shall hear the grievance and shall give a
written decision to the employee within seven (7) calendar days after
receiving the grievance. This portion of this step shall be repeated as
necessary until the next-level supervisor is a Division Chief.
Step 2: If the employee and the next-level supervisor cannot reach an
agreement to resolve the grievance, the employee may within seven (7)
calendar days present the grievance in writing to the Fire Chief. The
Fire Chief shall hear the grievance and shall give the written decision to
the employee within seven (7) calendar days after receiving the
gnevance.
Step 3: If the employee and Fire Chief cannot reach an agreement as to
the solution of the grievance, the employee may file a written request
with the Human Resources Director, within seven (7) calendar days, to
have the grievance heard by a Hearing Officer selected via the process
described in Section 25.4.7. The grievance shall also be presented to
the Assistant City Manager who may conduct a meeting with the
grievant and/or CF A representative to identify and clarify disputed
issues and attempt to resolve the grievance prior to presentation of the
grievance to the Hearing Officer.
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Page 407
24.4.5
24.4.6
24.4.7
Step 4: If the matter is not otherwise resolved, the Hearing Officer shall,
within thirty (30) calendar days after receipt of the grievance, hear the
grievance and render an advisory opinion to the City Manager. The City
Manager shall, within fourteen (14) calendar days after receipt of the
advisory opinion, notify the employee of the final action.
Any of the above steps may be waived by mutual agreement of the
parties.
The employee or employee organization and the city agree that the
advisory hearing will be conducted before a hearing officer selected by
the parties from a list provided by the California State Mediation and
Conciliation Service. If the parties cannot mutually agree on the hearing
officer they will use a strikeout procedure using a list of seven names
provided by the California State Mediation and Conciliation Service.
The appellant will have the prerogative of striking the first name.
All administrative costs associated with the cost of a grievance and the
subsequent hearing; including the hearing officer, court reporter and
transcription cost, if any, will be shared equally between the city and the
Carlsbad Firefighters' Association. In the case that the Carlsbad
Firefighters' Association does not support the grievance continuing to
the advisory hearing by a hearing officer, all administrative costs
associated with the cost of a grievance and the subsequent hearing;
including the hearing officer, court reporter and transcription cost, if
any, will be shared equally between the city and the employee.
The employee or employee organization will be responsible for the cost
of his or her own representation or attorney fees and preparation of
documents.
ARTICLE 25. ALCOHOL AND DRUG POLICY
I. POLICY
It is the policy of the City of Carlsbad to provide, for its employees, a work
environment free from the effects of drugs and alcohol consistent with the directives
of the Drug Free Workplace Act. The City of Carlsbad agrees to use a clinical
laboratory which is certified by the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), now
known as the Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services Administration
(SAMHSA). All procedures and protocols for collection, chain of custody and testing
will be conducted consistent with standards required under SAMHSA certification.
This policy is intended to accomplish that objective.
A. Definitions-As Used in This Policy:
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Page 408
1. "Drug" means any substance which produces a physical, mental,
emotional or behavioral change in the user, including but not limited to,
prescription medications, heroin, cocaine, morphine and its derivatives,
P.C.P., methadone, barbiturates, amphetamines, methamphetamines,
alcohol, marijuana, and other cannabinoids.
2. "Workplace" means any site where city-assigned work is performed,
including city premises, city vehicles or other premises or vehicles,
while city-assigned work is being conducted, or within a reasonable
time thereafter.
3. "Reasonable suspicion" means a standard for evidence or other
indication of impairment of normal physical or mental skills by alcohol
or drugs where such impairment could negatively affect work
performance or could pose a threat to public or employee safety.
B. Employee Responsibilities
1. As a condition of employment, employees shall:
a. not engage in the unlawful manufacture, distribution,
dispensation, possession or use of alcohol or drugs nor be under
the influence of alcohol or drugs in the workplace or while on-call;
b. submit to an alcohol and drug analysis and remain on the premises
when requested to do so by city management, acting pursuant to
this policy, or by law enforcement personnel;
c. notify the city of any conviction under a criminal drug statute
(including any pleas of nolo contendere), if such conviction was
based on a violation which occurred in the workplace, no later than
five days after such conviction; (notification under this subsection
does not relieve an employee from the disciplinary consequences
of the conduct upon which a criminal conviction is based); and
d. abide by all terms of this policy.
2. Employees must notify their supervisors when taking any medication or
drugs, prescription or non-prescription (over-the-counter medications),
which may interfere with safe or effective performance of their duties
or operation of city equipment.
3. Off-duty involvement with any controlled substance including, but not
limited to manufacture, distribution, dispensing, possession, use or any
conviction under a criminal drug statute whose scope and employment
are relevant to city employment may result in disciplinary action up to
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Page 409
and including termination if there is relevant nexus between such off-
duty involvement and the employee's employment with the city,
consistent with the legal requirements for disciplinary due process.
C. Employer Searches
For the purpose of enforcing this policy and maintaining a drug-free
workplace, the city reserves the right to search, with notice to the employee
or if no prior notice, in the employee's presence, all work areas and property
in which the city maintains full or joint control with the employee, including
but not limited to city vehicles, desks, lockers, file cabinets, and
bookshelves. These areas remain part of the workplace context even if the
employee has placed personal items in them. Employees are cautioned
against storing personal belongings in work areas under full or joint city
control since such work areas may be subject to investigation and/or search
under this policy. Employees shall have no expectation of privacy in these
areas, locations or properties.
Employer searches shall occur when there is a determination of"reasonable
suspicion" as defined herein. Such searches shall be conducted by persons
having supervisory and/or other legal authority to conduct such searches.
Searches will not normally occur without concurrence of more than one
supervisor.
If the FBOR (Government code section 3259) is applicable to a particular
search, then the city will comply with the Act notwithstanding anything to
the contrary in this article. For example, the city may conduct searches
without notice to the employee or without the employee being present, if a
valid search warrant has been obtained. The employee may also consent to
a search.
Nothing herein shall prevent the city from taking appropriate action if there
is an inadvertent discovery of evidence of drug or alcohol use.
D. Consequences of Violation of Policy
1. Failure to abide by the terms of this policy shall be grounds for
disciplinary action, up to and including termination.
2. In addition to any disciplinary action, an employee who fails to abide
by this policy may also be directed or allowed to satisfactorily
participate in an approved alcohol or substance abuse assistance or
rehabilitation program.
E. Federal Motor Carrier Safety Improvement Act of 1999 and DOT
regulations
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Page 410
II.
The parties acknowledge that the Federal Motor Carrier Safety
Improvement Act of 1999 (see Attachment B) and the California Vehicle
Code apply to unit members. The parties shall comply with the regulations
developed by the Department of Transportation to enforce the Act.
DRUG AND ALCOHOL ANALYSIS
A. Pre-employment Drug and Alcohol Analysis
1. Prior to receiving an offer of employment, an otherwise successful
candidate must submit to a drug and alcohol analysis. At the city's
discretion, this analysis may be in the form of "breathalizer," urine, or
blood analysis.
2. Persons whose results are positive for either drugs or alcohol will be
rejected for city employment.
B. Employee Drug and Alcohol Analysis
1. If a manager or supervisor of the city has reasonable suspicion that an
employee is under the influence of drugs or alcohol while in the
workplace or subject to duty, the employee shall be:
a. Prevented from engaging in other work; and
b. Required to submit to a drug and alcohol analysis. At the city's
discretion, this analysis may be in the form of "breathalizer,"
urine, or blood analysis.
c. An employee may also be required to remain on the premises for
a reasonable time until arrangements can be made to transport the
employee to his or her home.
2. Some examples of "reasonable suspicion" as defined in Section I.A.3.
include, but are not limited to, the following, when confirmed by more
than one person having supervisory authority:
a. slurred speech.
b. alcohol odor on breath;
c. unsteady walking or movement not related to prior injury or
disability;
d. an accident involving city property having no obvious causal
explanation other than possible employee responsibility;
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Page 411
e. physical or verbal behaviors that are disruptive, non-responsive,
unusual for that employee or otherwise inappropriate to the
workplace situation;
f. attributable possession of alcohol or drugs;
g. information obtained from a reliable person with personal
knowledge that would lead a reasonably prudent supervisor to
believe that an employee is under the influence of alcohol or
drugs;
3. Refusal to remain on the premises or to submit to a drug and alcohol
analysis when requested to do so by city management or by law
enforcement officers shall constitute insubordination and shall be
grounds for discipline, up to and including termination.
4. A drug and alcohol analysis may test for the presence of any drug which
could impair an employee's ability to effectively and safely perform the
functions of his or her job.
5. A positive result from a drug and alcohol analysis may result m
disciplinary action, up to and including termination.
6. City agrees to take steps to protect the chain of custody of any drug test
sample.
7. Employee will be placed on paid administrative leave pending the
completion of any testing process and any investigation deemed
necessary by the city.
III. EMPLOYEE ASSISTANCE PROGRAM
A. The city has a well-established voluntary Employee Assistance Program
(EAP) to assist employees who seek help for substance abuse problems.
The EAP is available for assessment, referral to treatment, and follow-up.
Any employee of the city wishing confidential assistance for a possible
alcohol or drug problem can call the EAP office and arrange for an
appointment with a counselor.
B. Employees who are concerned about their alcohol or drug use are strongly
encouraged to voluntarily seek assistance through the EAP. All self-referral
contacts are held in confidence by the EAP.
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Page 412
C. Participation in the employee assistance program will not replace normal
disciplinary procedures for unsatisfactory job performance or for violation
of any city policy.
ARTICLE 26. AUTHORIZED AGENTS
For the purpose of administering the terms and provisions of this Memorandum of Understanding:
A. City's principal authorized agent shall be the City Manager or a duly authorized
representative. Address: 1200 Carlsbad Village Drive, Carlsbad, California 92008;
Telephone (760) 434-2820, except where a particular city representative is specifically
designated in connection with the performance of a specific function or obligation set forth
herein.
B. CF A, Inc., principal authorized agent shall be its President or duly authorized
representative. Address: P.O. Box 945, Carlsbad, California 92018-0945; Telephone:
(760) 729-3730; Email: iafflocal3730@aol.com.
ARTICLE 27. FULL UNDERSTANDING, MODIFICATION, WAIVER
A. It is the intent of the parties that this Memorandum set forth the full and entire
understanding of matters agreed to upon conclusion of meet and confer sessions which
resulted in this Memorandum. Any other matters not contained herein, which were
addressed during the course of the meet and confer process, resulting from this
Memorandum, are superseded and terminated in their entirety. Any understanding or
agreement, not contained herein, whether formal or informal, which occurred during the
course of meet and confer sessions, resulting in this Memorandum, are terminated or
superseded in their entirety.
B. It is the intent of the parties that this Memorandum be administered in its entirety in good
faith during its full term.
It is recognized that if during such term it may be necessary for the city to propose changes
in matters within the scope of representation not contained in this agreement, the city shall
notify CF A, Inc., indicating the proposed change prior to its implementation. If CF A, Inc.,
wishes to consult or negotiate with the city regarding the matter, CF A, Inc., shall notify the
city within five (5) working days from the receipt of such notice. Upon receipt of such
notice, the parties shall meet promptly in an earnest effort to reach a mutually satisfactory
resolution of any problem arising as a result of the change instituted by the city.
Where the city makes such changes because of the requirements of the law, the city shall
not be required to negotiate the matter of compliance with any such law.
Nothing herein shall limit the authority of the city to make such changes required during
emergencies. However, the city shall notify CF A, Inc. of such changes as soon as
practicable. Such emergency changes shall not extend beyond the period of emergency.
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Page 413
"Emergency" shall be defined as an unforeseen circumstance requiring immediate
implementation of the change.
C. Failure by CF A, lnc. to request consultation or negotiations pursuant to Paragraph B shall
be deemed as approval of any action taken by the city.
D. Any agreement, alteration, understanding, variation, waiver, or modification of any of the
terms or provisions contained herein shall not be binding upon the parties hereto unless
made and executed in writing by all parties hereto, and if required, approved and
implemented by the City Council.
E. The waiver of any breach, term, or condition of this Memorandum by either party shall not
constitute a precedent in the future enforcement of all its terms and provisions.
ARTICLE 28. PROVISIONS OF LAW
It is understood and agreed that this Memorandum of Understanding is subject to all current and
future applicable federal and state laws and federal and state regulations. If any part or provision
of the Memorandum is in conflict or inconsistent with such above applicable laws, rules and
regulations, or is otherwise held to be invalid or unenforceable by any tribunal or competent
jurisdiction, such part or provision shall be suspended and superseded by such applicable law or
regulations, and the remainder of this Memorandum shall not be affected thereby.
ARTICLE 29. PARAMEDIC LICENSE PAY
Fire Captains and Fire Engineers who retain their paramedic license and San Diego County
accreditation will receive sixty-six dollars and ninety-five cents ($66.95) per pay period for
paramedic license pay.
ARTICLE 30. REPORTING VALUE OF UNIFORMS TO CALPERS
Effective May 31, 2010, all CPA-represented employees who are required to wear city-provided
uniforms will have the amount of $17.31 reported to CalPERS bi-weekly as special compensation
related to the monetary value of the required uniforms, excluding boots. Under PEPRA, this
benefit clees Ret apply te Aew members is not reported to CalPERS as special compensation for
new members.
ARTICLE 3 1. ACTING PAY
Whenever the needs of the city require an employee to temporarily perform the duties of a higher
classification than that in which the employee is currently employed for a period offour (4) hours
or more, the employee shall receive 5% additional pay while in tbe acting capacity. Until July l,
2017, ~....!!!.y_cmployees who are on an Eligibility List (maintained by the Human Resources
Dept) for the higher classification or employees who have completed an Acting Position Taskbook
(as described in the Fire Department Directives) are eligible to serve in an acting capacity.
Effective July 1, 2017, Appendix A describes the requirements for an employee to be eligible to
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Page 414
serve in an acting capacity. Tfie CFA and tfie eity agree that dw-ing the term of this MemorandUftl,
CFA and Fire Department masagemeet sfiall meet and eonfer oR the iss1:1e of the speeifie
fJrovisions of the Aeting Posit:ion Taskbook.
An employee may not serve in an acting capacity for more than six (6) months without prior
approval from the Fire Chief.
ARTICLE 32. DEFERRED COMPENSATION
The city shall provide for a Deferred Compensation Plan which may be utilized by any employee
on an optional basis. The city reserves the right to accept or reject any particular plan (current
providers are JCMA and Nationwide) and to impose specific conditions upon the use of any plan.
Such plan shall be implemented according to the plan document and without cost to the city.
As soon as administratively possible after ratification of this MOU. and only until the pay period
that includes December 31,2019, for Safety Tier 3 employees only, the City shall match employee
contributions that the Safety Tier 3 employees conttibute into a deferred compensation plan up to
a maximum of $2,500 per calendar year per employee. For example, if an employee contributes
$0 in calendar year 201 7, the City contributes $0 in calendar year 2017; if an employee contributes
$1,000 in calendar year 2017, the City contributes $1,000 in calendar year 2017; if an emplovee
contributes $2,500 in calendar year 2017, the City contributes $2,500 in calendar year 2017; if an
employee contributes $3,000 in calendar year 2017. the City contributes $2,500 in calendar year
2017.
As sooe as administrati .. ·ely flOSsible, CFA refJreseated employees ·;All be eligible fer !he flersenal
lean prevision establisfied vlith ~1atioa•.¥ide deferred eomfleesation flFOYider only. It is
aek:eowledged tJ:tat the eity will assist m !he admiaistralive set l:lfl of !his beaeiit b1:1t that tfie eity
has ao liability ifaa emflloyee seo~:~ld defal:l:lt oe the reflaymeat ofs1:1eh loafl.
ARTICLE 33. LEAVE OF ABSENCE
33.1 Occupational Injuries or illnesses
33.1.1 Employees in the classifications ofFirefighter, Paramedic Firefighter, Fire
Engineer, Fire Captain and Captain Specialist who are temporarily unable
to work due to an occupational illness or injury will receive full pay for up
to one year as provided in Section 4850 of the Labor Code ("4850
benefits"). The employee may not receive 4850 benefits concurrently with
sick leave or any other form of paid time off.
All non-suppression classifications that sustain a work related injury or
illness and becomes temporarily disabled from work as a result, may receive
their fuJI salary, in Jjeu of the State mandated temporary disability benefit,
for a period of up to forty-five (45) calendar days for any single incident.
The periods of temporary disability need not be continuous. Any
aggravation of a pre-existing occupational injury or illness will be treated
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Page 415
as such and not as a new injury. In this situation, the employee will not be
entitled to any occupational sick leave benefit which exceeds the original
maximum offorty-:five (45) calendar days. The city reserves the right to
determine whether occupational sick leave will be granted. Granting of
occupational sick leave will be subject to the same procedures and standards
(including predesignated physicians, resolution of disputes over benefits,
use of Agreed Medical Examiners, etc.) as used in workers' compensation
matters and/or FMLA/CFRA matters.
If the employee continues to be unable to work after the above described
benefits have been exhausted and the employee has not been retired, the
employee will receive workers' compensation temporary disability payments
as provided in the Labor Code. To the extent these benefits are less than the
employee's full regular pay, the employee shall supplement them by using
accrued sick leave, vacation, and/or compensatory time to reach the amount
equal to the employee's full regular pay until the employee's leave balances
reach zero, at which time the employee would commence an unpaid leave of
absence.
A sworn employee may not use accrued sick leave after the city approves the
employee's Industrial Disability Retirement aPR). The employee who is
approved for an IDR may choose to cash out up to 50% of their sick leave
balance upon separation of employment. The remaining sick leave balance
shall be converted to CalPERS service credit.
33.2 Non-Occupational Injuries or lllnesses
33.2.1 An employee who is temporarily unable to work due to a non-occupational
illness or injury will receive those disability benefit payments for wruch the
employee is eligible and applies. To the extent that these benefits are less
than the employee's full regular pay, the employee shall supplement them
by using accrued sick leave, vacation, and/or compensatory time to reach
the amount equal to the employee's full regular pay until the employee's
leave balances reach zero, at which time the employee would commence an
unpaid leave of absence.
33.2.2 Leaves of absence for pregnancy-related disabil ities will be handled in the
same manner as leaves of absence for non-occupational illnesses or injuries,
subj ect to the pregnancy disability provisions of the California Fair
Employment and Housing Act.
33.3 To the extent permitted by law, a leave of absence under this article will run concurrently
with any leave of absence an employee is entitled to receive under the California Family
Rights Act or the federal Family and Medical Leave Act.
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Page 416
33.4. Leave of Absence Without Pay
A. General Policy
Any employee may be granted a leave of absence without pay pursuant to the
approval of the Fire Chief for less than two calendar weeks. If the duration of the
leave of absence will be longer, the approval of the City Manager or his/her
designee is required.
An employee shall utilize all his/her vacation, compensatory time off and/or sick
leave (if applicable) prior to taking an authorized leave of absence without pay.
A leave without pay may be granted for any of the following reasons:
1. Illness or disability.
2. To take a course of study which will increase the employee's usefulness on
return to his/her position in the city service.
3. For personal reasons acceptable to the Fire Chief and City Manager.
B. Authorization Procedure
Requests for leave of absence without pay shall be made in writing and shall state
specifically the reason for the request, the date when the leave is desired to begin,
the probable date of return, and the agreement to reimburse the city for any benefit
premiums paid by the city during the leave of absence. The request shall normally
be initiated by the employee, but may be initiated by the Fire Chief, and, if
applicable, shall be promptly transmitted to the City Manager or his/her designee
for approval. A copy of any approved request for leave of absence without pay
with a duration equal to or greater than two calendar weeks shall be delivered
promptly to the Directors of Finance and Human Resources.
C. Length of Leave and Extension
A leave of absence without pay may be made for a period not to exceed six months,
unless otherwise approved by the City Manager. The procedure for granting
extensions shall be the same as that in granting the original leave provided that the
request for extension is made no later than fourteen (14) calendar days prior to the
expiration of the original leave.
D. Return From Leave
When an employee intends to return from an authorized leave of absence without
pay either before or upon the expiration of such leave, he/she shall contact his/her
36
Page 417
Department Head at least fourteen (14) calendar days prior to the day he/she plans
to return. The Department Head shall promptly notify the Human Resources
Department of the employee's intention. The employee shall return at a rate of pay
not less than the rate at the time the leave of absence began.
E. Effeet efLea¥e Without Pay
A prerata reduetien ef normal annual vaeatien and sielc leave aceruals shall be applieable to an
appro•;ed absenee '>vitheut pay. Any absenee v•itheut pay eenstitutes a break efeentmueus service
\¥ltR: the eity. The granting ef any leave without pay e>weeding twe full seheduled pay periods
sb.Gll eause the employee's salary anB:iversary date and ealewatien effull time eentiaueus service
te be fl*tended by the nun1ber ofealendar days fer whieh Sl:leh leave has been granted less the first
twe full pay periods ef such leave.
An employee's aee~:~:rnwatien ef siek lea·1e and vaeatien leave ·,'/ill cease after the
eempletien ef tv;e (2) fuJI sched1:Iied pay periods in whi6fl the employee has net reeei"t·ed
compensation due te a leave ef absenee '+vitheut pay. AcCI·ual '+viii be reiastituted begi:anmg the
first day the ernpleyee bas remraed te werk.
F!;;. Leave Without Pay -Insurance Payments and Privileges
An employee on leave without pay may continue his/her city insw·ance benefits by
reimbursing the city for the employee's costs of insurance on a monthly basis
during the period of the leave. Failure to reimburse the city for such benefits during
the term of a leave of absence will result in the employee's coverage terminating
on the first day following the month in which the last payment was received.
Upon the employee's return to paid status, any sums due to the city shall be repaid
through payroll deductions. This applies to sums due for insurance as well as other
payment plans entered into between the city and the employee (e.g., computer
loan).
Upon eligibility for COBRA, the employee will be notified of the opportunity to
continue benefit coverage via the COBRA process.
An employee on leave of absence without pay shall not have all of the privileges
granted to regular employees.
33.5. Pregnancy Disability Leave
G. Pregaaney Disability Lea·.•e
Pregnancy Disability Leave shall be authorized and/or administered in accordance
with the provisions of State and Federal law. An employee disabled by pregnancy
shall be allowed to utilize a combination of accrued sick leave, vacation,
compensatory time and leave without pay to take a leave for a reasonable period of
time, not to exceed four months. An employee shall utilize all accrued leave, except
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Page 418
compensatory time off, prior to taking leave without pay. Reasonable period of
time means that period during which the employee is disabled on account of
pregnancy, childbirth, or related conditions.
An employee who plans to take a leave pursuant to this article shall give the city
reasonable notice of the date the leave shall commence and the estimated duration
of the leave.
33.6. Extended Leave of Absence
Eligibility for accrual of sick leave and vacation, holiday pay and cell phone
allowance will be paused until the employee returns to work under two
circumstances, the one occurring later to have precedence:
a) the completion of 84 consecutive calendar days (12 weeks) of leave of
absence (paid or unpaid and except when leave is ordered by the City)
or
b) the completion of a leave of absence related to Section 4850 of the Labor
Code.
For example, if an employee, while away from work on an approved
leave of absence for family reasons. is diagnosed with a presumptive
illness, the above-referenced benefits would continue until the
completion of the leave of absence related to Labor Code Section 4850.
On the day that the employee returns to work from the extended leave of absence,
the employee will resume eli!!ibilitv for the abovementioned benefits and the
employee· s salary anniversary date. vacation anniversary date and seniority will be
adjusted for each calendar day the leave of absence lasted beyond 84 consecutive
calendar days (12 weeks) or the completion of a leave of absence related to Section
4850 of the Labor Code, whichever was longer.
Exception for a Probationary Newly Hired Employee.
When a probationary newly hired employee is on a leave of absence (paid or
unpaid) that extends beyond 14 consecutive calendar days the probationary period
and salary anniversary date shall be extended for each calendar day the employee
was on a leave of absence. Other than this exception, all other provisions in this
Extended Leave of Absence section apply to a probationary newly hired employee.
ARTICLE34. MILITARYLEAVE
Military leave shall be authorized in accordance with the applicable provisions of State and Federal
law. The employee must furnish satisfactory proof to the Fire Chief, as far in advance as possible,
that he/she must report to military duty.
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Page 419
ARTICLE 35. JURY DUTY
When called to jury duty, an employee, having provided at least five working days written notice
from the date of the summons, shall be entitled to his/her regular compensation. Employees shall
be entitled to keep mileage reimbursement paid while on jury duty. The Fire Chief may, at his/her
sole discretion, contact the court and request an exemption and/or postponement of jury service on
behalf of an employee.
Employees released early from jury duty shall report to their supervisor for assignment for the
duration of the work day. At the discretion of the supervisor, an employee may be released from
reporting back to work if an unreasonable amount of the work day remains in light of travel time
to the job site after release.
ARTICLE 36. LIFE INSURANCE AND VOLUNTARY BENEFITS
All CPA-represented employees shall receive city paid life insurance in an amount equal to one
times their basic yearly earnings. To determine the benefit, the amount of insurance is rounded to
the next higher $1,000 multiple, unless the amount equals a $1,000 multiple.
The city provides various voluntary benefits available at the employee's cost. Employees may
select among various levels of coverage. For information regarding these benefits, contact the
Human Resources Department at 760-602-2440.
ARTICLE 37. PROBATIONARY PERIOD
37.1 The initial hire probationary period shall be one year from the date the employee is hired.
The probationary period will permit both the supervisor and the employee to become
acquainted and to determine the adaptability and the fitness of the employee to the assigned
work. The employee will find this period helpful in evaluation of the city, his/her duties,
his/her work and other satisfaction.
37.2 All personnel promoted within the Department shall be on probation in the promotional
position for a period of one year from the date of promotion. Failure to pass probation
shall result in employee being put back to their prior position.
37.3 See Article 33 for the impact of a leave of absence on the probationary period.
ARTICLE 38. POST-RETIREMENT HEALTHCARE TRUST
The city and CF A, lnc. agree that CF A, Inc. will contract directly with a company of its choosing
to provide post-retirement healthcare trust benefits for all represented employees. Ali CFA
represented employees will contribute $100 per month into the post-retirement healthcare trust
established by CF A, Inc. via payroll deductions. As soon as admifl.istrati¥ely possible after
ratifieatioR of this MOU Bfl(i subraissioa te the eity by CFA, IBe ., of t:Ae fully eseeuteel eoatraet,
the eity will begin employee paiel payroll Eleeluetioas related to this benefit. CF A, Inc.,
acknowledges that the city has no administrative responsibilities or liabilities related to this benefit,
39
Page 420
other than processing of payroll deductions as deserieed aee•re. The eit:)• will eet make any
eeetrie~:~tieas te the pest retiremeet healt:Reare trust. CF A, Inc. shall hold the city harmless for the
city's actions related to this Article, and indemnify the city against any liability the city incurs as a
result of this Article, including but not limited to, its agreement to allow CFA, Inc., to participate
in a post-retirement healthcare trust and/or the city's processing of payroll deductions as set forth
a9twein this section.
Beginning with the first full pay period after ratification of this MOU. the city will contribute
twenty-five dollars ($25) per month per employee to the Post Retirement Healthcare Trust. To
provide CFA members with the value ofthis city contribution for the pay periods that include the
time period between January l, 2017 and ratification of this Memorandum by the City Council.
the city shall, with payroll, in the first full pay period after ratification of this Memorandum by the
City Council. make a one-time taxable (non-PERSable) cash payment equal to the retroactive
value of the city contribution for those CFA members employed by the City on that date.
ARTICLE 39. OUTSOURCING
The city and CFA agree that the city may contract with public and private entities or individuals
to perform any or all plan check activities except the final step in the plan checking process. CF A
agrees that the city may contract out these services without meeting and confeiTing with CPA over
the decision to contract these services or the effects of that decision.
ARTICLE 40. SURVEY MARKET
In keeping with the City Council's philosophy of surveying the total compensation of other
agencies, the agencies listed below will be considered in the survey market for CF A, Inc.
I. City of Del Mar
2. City of Encinitas
3. City ofEscondido
4. City of Oceanside
5. City ofpoway
6. City of San Marcos
7. City of Solana Beach
8. City of Vista
9. North County Fire District
10. Rancho Santa Fe Fire District
ARTICLE 41. EDUCATION JNCENTIVE
This article shall not be subject to the grievance procedure.
41.1 Level 1: Applicable to all employees represented by CFA, Inc., effective the pay period
inclusive of January 1, 2015.
(a) Requirement: Present proof to the Fire Chief or his/her designee of the following:
40
Page 421
Evidence of the award of or A Baccalaureate degree and at least two
each of the following (2) years' experience with a professional
certificates issued by the municipal fire agency in a position
California State Board of Fire responsible for fire prevention or fire
Services: suppression duties
1. Fire Fighter I, or
2. Fire Fighter II, an Associate degree and at least four ( 4)
3. Driver Operator IA, years' experience with a professional
4. Driver Operator 1 B, municipal fire agency in a position
5. Training Instructor IA responsible for fire prevention or fire
and suppression duties.
6. Training Instructor lB.
Proof of certification from a
California State Fire Marshal
course that is deemed
equivalent to one ofthe
courses listed above by the
Fire Chief or his/her designee
shall also meet the
requirement.
(b) Compensation:
Satisfactory fulfillment of the above requirements shall be compensated at the rate
of seventy-five dollars ($75) biweekly. Eligibility for receiving the compensation
will be based upon the date the employee provides evidence of eligibility to the
Fire Chief or his/her designee. It is the sole responsibility of the employee to
make notification of eligibility for the education incentive pay.
41.2 Level 2: Applicable to all employees represented by CF A, Inc., effective the pay period
inclusive of January 1, 2015.
(a) Requirement: Present proof to the Fire Chief or his/her designee of the following:
Evidence of the award of the or A Masters degree and at least four ( 4)
Fire Officer certificate issued years' experience with a professional
by the California State Board municipal fire agency in a position
of Fire Services. responsible for fire prevention or fire
suppression duties,
Proof of certification from a or
California State Fire Marshal a Baccalaureate degree and at least six ( 6)
course that is deemed years' experience with a professional
equivalent to the course listed municipal fire agency in a position
41
Page 422
above by the Fire Chief or responsible for fire prevention or frre
hlslher designee shall also suppression duties,
meet the requirement. or
an Associate degree and at least nine (9)
years' experience with a professional
municipal fire agency in a position
responsible for fire prevention or fire
suppression duties.
(b) Compensation:
Satisfactory fulfillment of the above requirements shall be compensated at the rate
of one hundred twenty dollars ($120) biweekly. Eligibility for receiving the
compensation will be based upon the date the employee provides evidence of
el igibility to the Fire Chief or his/her designee. It is the sole responsibility of the
employee to make notification of eligibility for the education incentive pay.
41.3 An employee that meets the criteria for compensation under more than one level, above,
shall receive compensation for only the highest such level for which he or she qualifies.
41.4 Eligibility for education incentive is determined based on the requirements issued by the
California State Fire Marshal in place at the time the employee presents his/her evidence
of eligibility. A change in the name of any of the above tracks identified or a future
requirement of promotion in addition to the completion of a "task book" shall not effect
eligibility for certification compensation.
ARTICLE 42. WELLNESS
The City shall contract with a wellness prosrram provider to provide a wellness program to all
CF A employees.
Participation in educational components is mandatory. Employees are strongly encouraged to
participate in the comprehensive fitness assessment and in the blood chemistry evaluation;
however, employees may choose not to participate in either of these two components. All
information and results from thls general fitness evaluation are confidential in accordance with
HIP AA regulations, non-punitive and will be given only to the employee.
42
Page 423
Appendix A
Reguirements to be ·'Certified". Serve in an "Acting" Capacity and Aggly for a Promotion
Effective July I, 2017
REQUIREMENTS TO TASKBOOK REQUIREMENTS TO SERVE REQUIREMENTS
BE "CERTIFIED'' COMPLETION fN AN "ACTING" CAPACITY TO APPLY FOR A
(Taskbooks are PROMOTION AND
described in the Ci!Y TAKETH£
of Carlsbad Fire PROMOTIONAL
Department TEST
Directives)
l. FIRE ENGINEER
To be a Certified Fire An emglo~ee rna~ I. To be eligible to serve in a In order to gualify for
Engineer, an emglo~ce start working on the Fire Engineer acting capacit~, particigation in the
must Ci!Y of Carlsbad Fire an emglo~ee must be on a gromotiona I grocess
a. have two (2} ~ears of Engineer Taskbook at current Cit~ of Carlsbad Fire for the position of
service in the Cill: of an~ time and mav Engineer eligibilit~ list Fire Engineer, an
~arlsbad Fire comglete it either (maintained b~ the Human emplo~ee must be a
Department and before or after taking Resources Degartment). Certified Fire
b. have !<Ompleted all the gromotional test. 2. However, ifthere are fewer Engineer.
State Fire Marshal (Note: some of the than three (3) emglo~ees on
courses reguired to items in the taskbook the eligibili!Y list, or, at the
obtain a 20 I Q reguire a 2016 discretion of the Fire ~hief or
DriveriQJ2!<rator DriveriOJ2!<rator his/her designee, an emglo:iee
certification (or the certificate or the may be glaced in an acting
eguivalent eguivalent Fire Engineer cagacity if
certification as certification as defined a. he/she is a Certified
defined by the State by the State Fire Fire Engineer and
Fire Ml!!]hal). Marshal.) b. he/she has completed
the Cit~ of Carlsbad
Fire Engineer
Taskbook.
43
Page 424
REQUIREMENTS TO TASKBOOK REQUIREMENTS TO SERVE REQUIREMENTS
BE "CERTIFIED" COMPLETION IN AN "ACTING'' CAPACITY TO APPLY FOR A
(Taskbooks are PROMOTION AND
described in the Citv TAKE THE
ofCarlsbad Fire PROMOTIONAL
De12artment TEST
Directives)
n. FIRE CAPTAIN
To be a Certified Fire An emglo:r:ee may I. To be eligible to serve in a In order to qualifv for
Ca12tain, an emulo:x:ee start working on the Fire Cagtain acting cagacitx, gartici[!ation in the
must City of Carlsbad Fire an emglo:r:ee must be Qn a gromotional 12rocess
a. have three (3) :x:ears Cagtain Taskbook at current City of Carlsbad Fire for the 12osition of
of service in the City an:r: time and may Cagtain eligibilitx list Fire Ca12tain, an
of Carlsbad Fire comglete it either (maintained !;!y the 1-Iuman emgloyee must be a
De12artment and before or after taking Resources De12artment). Certified Fire
b. have comgleted all the gromotional test. 2. However, if there are fewer Cagtain.
State Fire Marshal iliote: some of the than three (3) emgloyees on
courses required to items in the taskbook the el igibilitx list, or, at the
obtain a 2016 may require discretion of the Fire Chief or
Comgany Officer certificates and/or his/her designee, an em[!loyee
certification (or the have grerequisite may be glaced in an acting
equivalent requirements.) Fire Cagtain cagacity if
certification as a. he/she is a Certified
defined by the State Fire Cagtain and
Fire Marshal) and b. he/she has cQmgleted
c. be a Certified Fire the Citx of Carlsbad
Engineer and Fire Ca[!tain
d. have comgleted the Taskbook.
Citx of Carlsbad Fire
Engineer Task book.
(Note: this steg (d) is
not required if an
emJ2lo:x:ee was a
Carlsbad Fire
Engineer grior to
7/1 /17.)
44
Page 425
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the patties hereto have caused their duly authorized representatives to
execute this Memorandum of Understanding the day, month, and year first above written.
CITY OF CARLSBAD
KEVIN CRAWFORD, Interim City Manager Date
Approved as to form:
CELIA BREWER, City Attorney Date
CARLSBAD FIREFIGHTERS' ASSOCIATION, INC.
CHRISTOPHER LA\llPJ3}lGEERIC EVONSION, President Date
45
Page 426
JOB TITLE:
DEPARTMENT:
BASIC FUNCTION:
CITY OF CARLSBAD
CLASS SPECIFICATION
FIREFIGHTER
FIRE
Exhibit 3
Under supervision, to fight fires and to participate in fire prevention activities in
protecting life and property; to operate and maintain fire fighting and rescue equipment,
and fire stations; and to do related work as assigned.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
Serve as hose operator if fire fighting situations including pulling working lines, manning
the nozzle to direct the stream of water on the fire, placing, raising, lowering, and
climbing ladders, and assisting in overhaul and salvage operations.
Respond to rescue calls and administer first aid.
Clean and inspect equipment, perform lubrication, make adjustments and repairs to
equipment, and maintain fuel and oil supply.
Clean and test fire hoses.
Routine inspection and maintenance of fire hydrants.
Operate radio-telephone equipment.
Study Fire Department rules and regulations, fire hazards, fire fighting techniques and
related subjects.
Conduct fire prevention inspection and education programs.
Participate in fire drills and training exercises.
Respond to fire calls during non-duty hours.
Participate in continuous training in fire prevention, inspection and suppression through
both simulated and on-the-job-exercises.
May be assigned as a paramedic if properly trained, certified and appointed to perform
such duties by the Fire Chief.
Page 427
Firefighter, Page 2 of2
Serve as Acting Fire Engineer or Acting Captain as assigned for emergency relief
purposes.
QUALIFICATIONS:
Knowledge of:
Rules, regulations, and operational procedures of the Fire Department.
Ability to:
Demonstrate physical endurance, agility and strength sufficient to meet the
establi shed standards of the City.
Demonstrate a high degree of mechanical aptitude.
Learn ure fighting methods and techniques, the operation of fire fighting
equipment, street location and physical layout of the City, and major traffic and
fue hazards.
Think and act quickly in emergencies.
Understand and follow oral and written directions promptly and accurately.
Deal courteously and effectively with the general public.
Establish and maintain cooperative relationships with those contacted in the
course of work.
EXPERIENCE AND EDUCATION:
Any combination equivalent to experience and education that could likely provide the
required knowledge and abilities would be qualifying.
SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:
Within one year from date of hire, employee must possess and maintain a valid Class B
California drivers license, to include a water tank and air brake endorsement.
Must possess and maintain current certification as an Emergency Medical Technician I iJl
the State of California.
As a eeAelitieA ef eentiR~:~eel empleymeRt, shall satisfaeterily eemf)lete BR atm~:~al physieal
fitness pregram whieh will iReh:tEle physieal agility and meElieal testiRg a~:~therizeEl by the
City CeliAeil BAG preseribeEl by the City Manager.
DATE APPROVED: 6/13/2017
Page 428
JOB TITLE:
DEPARTMENT:
BASIC FUNCTION:
CITY OF CARLSBAD
CLASS SPECIFICATION
PARAMEDIC/FIREFIGHTER
FIRE
Under supervision, provides basic and advanced life support services to ill or injured persons in
accordance with the policies established by the Department of Emergency Medical Services of
San Diego County; fights fires and participates in fire prevention activities for the protection of
life and property; operates and maintains vehicles, apparatus, equipment, stations and
communication systems; teaches fire safety to the public; and performs other duties as required.
DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS:
This is an entry level into the professional fire service series. The paramedic/firefighter is a
uniformed member of the public safety/fire suppression/EMS division of the department. This
position supports dual responsibilities as a paramedic and as a firefighter and is utilized in both
types of assignments as needed.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
Responds to medical emergencies;
Conducts or assists in the extrication of trapped persons;
Performs primary and secondary physical assessment of ill or injured persons;
Performs cardiopulmonary resuscitation;
Maintains an effective airway for patients with compromised breathing;
Immobilizes injured limbs and spinal vertebra where injury is suspected;
Controls bleeding of external injuries;
Assists with emergency childbirth;
Provides emotional support to distressed persons;
Administers oxygen to support respiratory functions;
Page 429
Paramedic/Firefighter Page 2
Utilizes adjunctive ventilation devices, such as endotracheal tubes;
Applies and utilize pneumatic anti-shock garments;
Analyzes electrocardiograms and recognizes cardiac arrhythmias;
Administers medications by intravenous, intramuscular or topical means;
Performs electrical defibrillation;
Operates radio-telephone equipment and communicates medical information to base hospital
medical personnel and others;
Serves as a preceptor for paramedic and emergency medical technician trainees;
Compiles necessary reports and records; drives an ambulance vehicle;
Responds to and performs skilled tasks at the scenes of emergency calls including: fire, medical
assistance, rescues, hazards identification, hazardous materials identification and spills, public
assistance and service;
Safely drives and operates vehicles, apparatus and equipment;
Teaches fire safety, CPR and other classes and participates in public education demonstrations
and activities;
Conducts inspections and school exit drills;
Writes reports and maintains records; maintains, inspects, and repairs fire stations and fire
grounds, emergency and support vehicles, apparatus, equipment, fire hydrants, radios, and alarm
systems;
Participates in department physical fitness program;
Performs emergency medical procedures;
Participates in proficiency training to develop and maintain emergency skills;
Uses computers in performing required duties, performs other related duties as assigned.
QUALIFICATIONS:
Paramedic/Firefighter
Page 2 of5
Page 430
Knowledge of:
Basic and advance life support principles and procedures;
San Diego County Emergency Medical System (EMS) regulations, protocols and
procedures;
Carlsbad Fire Department operations, such as rescue, firefighting, radio communications,
Incident Command System (ICS), fire protection equipment and systems, fire behavior,
hazardous materials and water systems;
Federal, state, and local laws, regulations and standards;
Maintenance and repair of vehicles, apparatus, equipment and fire hydrants;
Local geographical response factors;
Correct English grammar, spelling, punctuation;
Basic mathematics, chemistry, and physics of fire behavior and hazardous materials;
Safety practices and procedures;
Personal computer operating systems and software applications;
Requirements and standards as defined in the National Fire Protection Association
(NFP A) Standard 1002 preferred.
Ability to:
React quickly and calmly to fight fires and perform emergency medical techniques and
procedures;
Perform rescues;
Operate, maintain, inspect and repair vehicles, apparatus, equipment, communication
systems and fire hydrants;
Clean and maintain fire station and grounds;
Conduct fire inspections and school exit drills;
Teach classes and participate in public education demonstrations and activities;
Write comprehensive reports and maintain accurate records;
Page 431
Paramedic/Firefighter Page 4
Relate effectively to those contacted in the course of work;
Learn local conditions, locations and regulations;
Operate computers, understand and follow oral and written directions promptly and
accurately.
EDUCA TJON AND EXPERIENCE:
A typical way to obtain the required knowledge and abilities would be any combination
equivalent to the education and experience that could likely provide the required
knowledge and abilities would be qualifYing.
REQUIRED CERTIFICA TJON AND LICENSE:
Licensed as an Emergency Medical Technician-Paramedic (EMT-P) with the State of Califomia
and current EMT-P accreditation with the County of San Diego EMS office. Firefighter I
certification.
Within one year from date of hire, employee must possess appropriate, valid California class B
Firefighter Driver's License, to include a water tank and air brake endorsement/or Class C
California Drivers License with Firefighter Endorsement, and when required, a valid Medical
Examiner's Card must be maintained.
SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:
As a condition of continued employment, the Paramedic/Firefi ghter must maintain
current license as an EMT-P with the State of California and current EMT-P accreditation
with the County of San Diego EMS office.
At the EliseretieR ef the fire ehief, a ParameEiie/Firefighter Aiay ee eligiele te eempete in
premetioAal eMamiaatieas after a m:iaimwn ef ene year sen•iee.
PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS:
Meet the requirements specified in the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 1001
Standard for en.try level Firefighters. As a eeREiitieA ef eoAliAueEI employment, shall
satisfaeterily eemplete an anaual peysieal fitaess pregram wrueh will iReh:1Eie physieal
agility aRe! meelieal testiag authorizeel tae City Couneil aBel preserieeel ey ilie City
Manager.
OTHER CHARACTERISTICS:
Must have willingness and ability to: work variable shifts and overtime as required;
attend meetings and training activities, both on and off duty; work under hazardous, life-
Paramedic/Firefighter
Page4 ofS
Page 432
threatening conditions, such as, at heights, in confined spaces, at temperature extremes,
around crowds, with loud noises, with Limited visibility, in the presence of hazardous
materials, in the presence of victims of death and/or dismemberment; work effectively as
a team member of a company, battalion, department, special project group by following
orders, consistently following through with duties/assignments and living harmoniously
with co-workers; wear approved uniform.
DATE APPROVED: J1:1t1e 21 , 2QII6/13/2017
Page 433
JOB TITLE:
DEPARTMENT:
BASIC FUNCTION:
CITY OF CARLSBAD
CLASS SPECIFICATION
FIRE ENGINEER
FIRE
Under supervision, to operate and maintain fire trucks, fire fighting and response
equipment, and fire stations; to participate in fire prevention activities in protecting life
and property; and to do related work as assigned.
KEY RESPONSIBLITIES:
Drive and operate fire equipment.
Maintain fire apparatus and other emergency vehicles.
Respond to incidents and select the most direct route to the fire.
Lay hose lines, operate fire fighting and rescue equipment as required.
Man nozzles to direct stream of water on fire.
Assist in overhaul and salvage operations.
Respond to rescue calls and administer first aid.
Operate radio-telephone equipment.
Inspect equipment, perform lubrication, make mmor adjustments and repaus, and
maintain fuel and oil supply.
Wash and test fire hoses.
Clean station quarters and equipment and maintain a clean and orderly condition in and
about the fire house.
Study Fire Department rules and regulations, fire hazards and fire fighting techniques.
Participate in fire drills and training exercises.
Conduct fire prevention inspection and education programs.
Page 434
Fire Engineer Page 2
Prepare reports with respect to equipment maintenance and work operations.
Instruct fire personnel in the operation and maintenance of fire equipment.
Respond to fire calls during non-duty hours.
Serve as. Acting Fire Captain as assigned.
Routine inspection and maintenance of fire hydrants.
QUALIFICATIONS:
Knowledge of:
Street system, the physical layout of the City and the location of fire hydrants,
mains and their fire flow capabilities.
Fire fighting methods and techniques.
Operating and mechanical principles involved in the operation and maintenance
of fire apparatus and equipment.
Fire hydrants.
Fire aid and CPR.
Rules, regulations and operational procedures of the Fire Department.
Ability to:
Establish and maintain cooperative relationships with those contacted in the
course of work.
Understand and follow oral and written instructions quickly and correctly.
Operate fire equipment and apparatus.
Maintain fire equipment and apparatus.
Think and act quickly in emergencies.
Understand and follow oral and written directions promptly and accurately.
Write clear, concise and accurate reports.
Perform field calculations in hydraulics for proper and safe operations at
emergency scenes.
Page 435
Fire Engineer Page 3
EXPERIENCE AND EDUCATION:
Any combination equivalent to experience and education that could likely provide the
required knowledge and abilities would be qualify ing. A typical way to obtain the
knowledge and abilities would be:
Experience:
Two years of municipal fire fighting experience.
Education:
High school diploma or equivalent. Completion of college level courses or their
equivalent in Fire Science in compliance with departmental policies.
PROMOTIONAL EXAMINATION REQUIREMENTS:
Ie order to q~:~alify fer participation ift the premetieeal precess fer the pesitiea of Fire
B:Bgieeer, the fellevriag reql±iremeats are reql±iree to be met )3rier to the filiag deadli:R:e
stated ea the promotional recmitment:
• Mift±nnlm tv,re (2) years f~:~ll time employmeBt wits the Carlsbad Fife Departmeah
• Completion of Driver Operator lA and lB.
SPECIAL REQUIREMENT:
Possession and maintenance of a valid Firefighter Non-Commercial Class B California
Drivers License, to include a water tank and air brake endorsement/or Class C California
Drivers License with Firefighter Endorsement.
Possession and maintenance of a California Emergency Medical Technician-Cettificate.
Physical Characteristics:
Meet the requirements specified in the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 1001
Standard for entry level Firefighters. /'..s a condition of eentffi~:~ed em)3leymeet, shall
satisfaetarily eemplete an aBfl~:~al physieal fitness program whieh wi-ll i:Beh:1de physical
agility and medical testiag aatheri:ced by the City Co\i:Beil and preseribed by the City
Manager.
DATE APPROVED: 6/211201 I 6/13/2017
Page 436
CITY OF CARLSBAD
CLASS SPECIFICATION
JOB TITLE: FIRE CAPTAIN
DEPARTMENT: FIRE DEPARTMENT
BASIC FUNCTION:
Under direction, to perform management, supervisory and technical work in fire fighting, emergency
rescue, fire inspection, fire prevention, and fire training activities; and to do related work as assigned.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
Plan and execute work assignments of fire prevention, fire suppression and rescue personnel in an
assigned company.
Respond to fire alarms as commanding officer, and as such is responsible for the fire supervision and
performance and safety of assigned fire fighting personnel.
Direct fire fighting, rescue and emergency medical operations until relieved by a superior officer.
Operate radio-telephone equipment.
Supervise and participate in salvage and overhaul operations.
Supervise and assist in rendering first aid in an emergency incident.
Supervise the assignments and work of emergency medical technicians and paramedics on an assigned
shift basis.
Direct the cleaning of quarters, equipment and apparatus at fire station. Inspect personnel and
maintain discipline.
Instruct personnel in the proper use of safety precautions; assure adherence to established safety
standards in daily operations involving personnel and equipment.
Instruct and drill fire department personnel in fire prevention and fire fighting methods, techniques,
and related subjects.
Supervise and participate in the inspection of buildings and installations for fire hazards and fire safety
systems as required by State laws and City ordinances.
Assist in planning and conducting the City wide fire prevention program and education program.
Assume administrative responsibilities involving the department's budgeting, purchasing, equipment
maintenance, and personnel functions.
Prepare reports and maintain records.
Page 437
Fire Captain Page 2
May be required to respond to fire calls during non-duty hours.
May serve as a paramedic team coordinator and supervisor if properly trained, certified and appointed
to such duties by the Fire Chief.
May be assigned a variety of special assignments involving emergency medical operations, fire
prevention, department communications and others.
Supervise, train, and evaluate subordinates.
Serve as Acting Battalion Fire Chief -as assigned.
QUALIFICATIONS:
Knowledge of:
Principles, practices, and procedures of modern fire fighting, fire prevention practices, and
protection oflives and property.
Rules, regulations, and operational procedures of the Fire Department.
Operation and maintenance of the type of apparatus and equipment used in modern fire fighting
activities.
First aid and CPR.
Principles of supervision, training, and performance evaluation.
Mechanical, chemical and related characteristics of a wide variety of flammable and explosive
materials and objects.
Local geography including the location of main and hydrants, GPM (gallons per minute) per
capacity, and the major fire hazards of the City.
Demonstrate Ability to:
Communicate clearly and concisely, orally and in writing.
Conduct thorough fact finding inspection and investigation.
Operate apparatus and equipment used in modern fire fighting activities.
Establish and maintain cooperative relationships with those contacted in the course of work.
Supervise, train, and evaluate assigned staff.
Think and act quickly in emergencies.
Page 438
Fire Captain Page 3
EXPERIENCE AND EDUCATION:
Any combination equivalent to experience and education that could likely provide the required
knowledge and abilities would be qualifying. A typical way to obtain the knowledge and abilities would
be:
Experience: ~Three years of municipal fire fighting experience.
Education: High school diploma or equivalent, supplemented by the equivalent of 60 units
college course work which can be credited toward a major in Fire Science.
VROI\IDTIONAL EX.~MINATION REQUIREMENTS:
Ia order to EJttalify fer partieipatioa ia the premotioaal proeess fer the positioa of Fire Captaia, the
fello•,yiflg retltti-remeets are retl1:1i-red to be met prior to the filiag deadliae stated OR the promotioaal
reeruitmeat:
• Miaimum offeur (4) years full time employmeet with the Carlsbad Fi-re Departmeat.
• Possessioa of State Fire Offieer Certifieatioa
• Must have served as Fi-re Eagiaeer or eertified Aetiag Bagineer with the Carlsbad Fire
Departmeat. This ear-1 be aeeomplished by sueeessfully passiag either ae Begifleer' s examinatioa
or an Oat of Class Certified Purap Operator eKam-iaatioa.
SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:
Possession and maintenance of a valid Firefighter Non-Commercial Class B California driver's
license, to include a water tank and air brake endorsement/or Class C California Drivers License with
Firefighter Endorsement.
Possession and maintenance of a California Emergency Medical Technician-Certificate. Instructor
Training No. 1 and No. 2 or equivalent.
Physieal ChaFaeteFisties:
As a eoeditioa of eofltiflued employmeat, shaH satisfaetorily eomplete an al:ll'lU9l physieal fiteess
program ">vhieh w-ill iflelude physieal agility aRd medieal testiflg aathorized by the City Coaaeil and
preserieed by the City Manager.
DATE APPROVED: e/21/2011 6/13/2017