Explanation
BACKGROUND: This ordinance establishes new authorized strength for the Department of Public Service, Public Service Administration (Director's Office) by increasing the full-time general fund sanctioned positions from 17 to 43, an increase of 26 positions along with corresponding decreases. The Department of Public Service is requesting the realignment of 22 positions from other city divisions resulting in a net increase of 4 full-time and 2 part-time general fund sanctioned positions for the city' new 311 Customer Service Center. The majority of positions (15) to be realigned to the Public Service Department, Administration Section are from the Refuse Collection Division (11) and the Transportation Division (4). The balance of the positions will come from various other city departments.
These authorized strength changes are needed at this time to establish and consolidate customer-service personnel from various city agencies into a single location and appointing authority. The 311 Customer Service Center will allow residents to call a three-digit, single point of contact, telephone number "3-1-1" for non-emergency service requests, questions, and assistance. Over time the myriad of phone numbers and multiple call locations will become unnecessary. City developed software tracks customer-service requests and will ultimately tie into established performance standards.
The increase in authorized strength for the Public Service Department, Administration will become effective upon passage of the ordinance. The corresponding reduction in the other city agencies shall become effective upon Council's passage of the 2006 budget.
The personnel levels for all other city agencies remain unchanged and as presented in the last strength ordinance (1618-2005).
FISCAL IMPACT: All changes in authorized strength will not require additional funding through the end of fiscal year 2005. The Department will utilize existing 2005 funds where appropriat...
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