CIVIL SERVICE COMMITTEE

MINUTES OF MEETING

February 24, 2011

Morrill Hall, Room 300

 

[In these minutes: committee business; job family review; civil service senate transition, office of human resources update]

 

PRESENT:  Frank Strahan (chair), Don Cavalier (chair elect), Josette Barsness, Susan Rafferty, Rick Densmore, Blake Downes, Amy Olson, Susan Cable Morrison, Nancy Fulton

 

REGRETS: Carolyn Davidson (treasurer), Karen Lovro, Chris Stevens, Pat Roth

 

ABSENT: None

 

GUESTS:  Chief Greg Hestness, Assistance Vice President/Police Chief University Public Safety

 

Frank Strahan called the meeting to order, and welcomed those present.  He introduced University of Minnesota Police Chief Greg Hestness,

 

Public Safety Update

Chief Hestness provided the Civil Service Committee (CSC) with information on his background.  He has been the Chief of the University of Minnesota Police Department (UMPD) since 2003.  Prior to that, he spent 28 years with the Minneapolis Police Department (MPD).

 

Chief Hestness next explained the departmental organization.   He stated the Department of Public Safety falls under University Services and has three departments with in it:  Central Security, Emergency Management, and UMPD.  Central Security was formed in 2001 and combines security programs from a number of other departments.  It was created to reduce fragmented security efforts, establish best practices, and cohesive standards.  It evaluates, designs, installs, monitors, and maintains a variety of critical security infrastructure systems such as:

á      The 911 Dispatch Center

á      Twenty-four/seven System Monitoring Services

á      Access Control Services

o   Programming for automated building unlocks and lock-ups

o   Approximately 2700 doors are under electronic control and 24-hour monitoring

á      Support for the Police Department with interventions and secondary investigations.

 

Chief Hestness noted that video and card access data collected by Central Security are not public information and are only released for formal investigations conducted by UMPD, General Counsel, Audits, and Human Resources.  He also showed examples of images caught on video cameras that assisted in arrests and convictions. 

 

Additionally, Chief Hestness noted Central Security innovations such as Òintelligent videoÓ which identifies individuals walking alone and alerts the police.  The UMPD can then, for instance, provide a virtual patrol when individuals are walking across the Washington Avenue Bridge at night. 

 

Chief Hestness next discussed the Department of Emergency Management (DEM).  DEM consists of 4.4 full time employees and approximately 50 volunteers in University of Minnesota Emergency Medical Services. DEM is dedicated to helping the University and the State of Minnesota prepare for, respond to, recover from, and mitigate the effects of intentional, accidental or natural disasters.  It is responsible for:

á      Preparedness

o   Emergency Operations Plan

o   Emergency Management Policy committee

o   Hazard analysis and planning

o   Training and exercises

á      Emergency Response

o   Emergency Operations Center

o   Incident response and management

o   Emergency medical services

á      Continuity/Recovery

o   Operational continuity planning

DEM also supports emergency communications such as TXT U and Tone Alert Radios.  Recently, DEM received a grant for installation of a digital public address system.  This will first be implemented at the Crookston campus.

 

Chief Hestness next discussed the UMPD.  It is a licensed full service police department and offers:

á      Patrol and 911 response,

á      Community policing,

á      Investigations,

á      Traffic safety and enforcement,

á      911 dispatch, and a

á      Student monitor program

The UMPD has 50 employees.  It patrols the East Bank, West Bank, and St. Paul campuses as well as, other sites such as the Community University Health Care Center.  Chief Hestness emphasized that the UMPD is information and partnership driven.  It shares a records management system with the Minneapolis Police Department (MPD).  The UMPD and MPD participate in the regional radio system, and monitor each otherÕs frequencies.  The UMPD also leases a computer aided dispatch (CAD) system from Minneapolis Emergency Communications Center, so they can view one anotherÕs active, pending, and past calls for service.   The new CAD came on line in 2005.  This allows the UMPD to receive 911 cellular calls.  Between 2005 and 2010, there was a 62% increase in the volume of 911 police calls.  In 2010, 31% of UMPD 911 responses were off campus in support of the surrounding neighborhoods. 

 

Chief Hestness next discussed the safety trends on campus and in the surrounding community.  He showed the CSC a chart with property and personal crimes statistics from 2002 to 2010.  He noted that the most common crimes are those against property and that overall the statistics show a downward trend in crime.  He also noted that theft is the biggest problem on campus, but it has dropped by over one-third since 2005 when Central Security began its automated door locking system.  He also discussed robbery trends in the neighborhoods surrounding the Twin Cities campus. 

 

Chief Hestness then turned to the campus crime alerts.  He noted that the federal Cleary Act requires these.  Under this Act, universities must timely disclose information about crime on and around their campuses.  Failure to do so results in fines.  He also noted the difference between emergency notifications and crime alerts.  Emergency notifications indicate you need to take immediate action for your personal safety.  Crime alerts are after the fact notifications. 

 

Chief Hestness next discussed the partnerships the UMPD maintains both on and off-campus.  Some examples are partnerships with:

á      The Office of Student Affairs,

á      Housing and Residential Life,

á      The ProvostÕs Committee on Student Mental Health,

á      Community/neighborhood organizations, and  

á      Minnesota Homeland Security and Emergency Management

 

He also noted the UMPD is forming a coordinated response team to connect with business and neighborhood associations and student groups that often meet in the evenings.  Additionally, the UMPD is trying to improve its visibility with students and inform them about Text U, the Gopher shuttle, and escort services. 

 

He also mentioned the challenge presented by the many special events held at the University.  He stated that there is a pool of about 100 part-time officers who assist with these events. 

 

Next, Chief Hestness responded to questions submitted by CSC members regarding mental health and the University policy on the conceal and carry law.  He sated that the UMPD frequently responds to mental health crises and 13 officers are trained in crisis intervention.  On campus resources for mental health crises include Boynton Health Service and University Counseling and Consulting Services.  He also discussed the:

á      Behavioral Consultation Team.  (A resource for consultation about concerning student behavior that might pose a risk for harm to the student or others.)

á      Employee assistance program, 

á      Employee threat assessment team,

á      Provosts Committee on Student Mental Health, and

á      Active Shooter Campus Training.

 

With regard to the UniversityÕs policy on conceal and carry, Chief Hestness stated that the Regents Policy states: except for law enforcement and military personnel no one may carry a firearm on campus with out the approval of the President.  The UMPD will ask anyone carrying a weapon to leave the campus or remove the weapon.  But carrying a weapon on campus with a permit is a violation of RegentsÕ policy not state law.

 

In his closing comments, Chief Hestness emphasized the following points.

á      When threatened with a weapon, it is best not to resist.  Your personal safety is more important than a lost wallet or cell phone

á      Walk in well-lit areas and do not walk alone.  Call the campus escort service for a free security escort.

á      Students are encouraged to use the Gopher Chauffer

á      Call 911 anytime you need to speak to a police officer

 

Susan Cable Morrison asked Chief Hestness why tickets could not be paid on campus.  Chief Hestness explained that the University does not have the authority to take in fines.  This is managed by the district court system. 

 

Chief Hestness noted he had not previously spoken to the CSC and asked whom they represent and what they do.  Mr. Strahan explained that the CSC represents the 4,700 CS employees at the University and provides employment advocacy, legislative advocacy, assistance with the CS Employment Rules, and assistance with issues regarding benefits and compensation.

 

Rick Densmore asked if the UMPD would have a volunteer reserve in the future.  Chief Hestness noted that this was previously considered, but not undertaken because the UMPD could not provide workersÕ compensation to volunteer reserve members.

 

Blake Downes noted the need for increased traffic safety with the light rail transit construction.  Chief Hestness agreed that the upcoming campus construction projects and road closures would force more traffic though the center of campus, increase pedestrian traffic crossing Washington Avenue, and increase the need for traffic enforcement.

 

Mr. Strahan asked whom he should contact with concerns about unsafe traffic situations.  Chief Hestness stated that Mr. Strahan could contact him, but Bob Baker and Sandy Cohen were primary contacts for the light rail construction project.

 

Chairs Report – Frank Strahan

á      Human Resources Prep Meeting – Mr. Strahan met with Patti Dion, Twin Cities Office of Human Resources (OHR) Director and Susan Rafferty, OHR Assistant Director.  Ms. Dion expressed continued concern about the CSCÕs transition to a Senate.

á      Senate Consultative Committee – The Rochester Chancellor presented his vision for the future of the Rochester campus.  The SCC considered a resolution from the Equity Access and Diversity Committee regarding pay equity if future budget cuts are necessary.  The resolution was sent back to EAD for revisions.  Mr. Strahan noted that the President would be giving his State of the University address at the next University Senate meeting. 

á      Membership – Committee membership continues to be an issue for the CSC. Mr. Strahan expressed hope that the CSCÕs transition to a Senate and the support of the University Senate Office would help fill the CS Senate and Consultative Committee.  He noted that there is an individual in Crookston who is interested in joining the CSC, but there is no one at the Morris campus.

á      Mr. Strahan encouraged CS members to contact their State legislators and ask them to support the University and higher education.  Amy Olson noted that she met with State Representative Erin Murphy who indicated there was little support at the Legislature for maintaining funding for the University.  

 

Vice Chairs ReportDon Cavalier

Mr. Cavalier reported that at the Crookston campus there was an increase in non-renewals of Professional and Administrative positions.  The Career Services Office is preparing to assist those employees losing jobs.  There are five departments up for review. 

 

TreasurerÕs Report – Frank Strahan (for Caroline Davidson)

Mr. Strahan provided the committee with a spreadsheet indicating the expenditures on professional development funds ($1,198.00) and for committee member travel reimbursements ($1638.13).  Susan Cable Morrison asked why the CSC no longer received a spreadsheet setting out all of the CSCÕs expenditures.  Mr. Strahan explained that the Senate Office is charged with managing the budget and managing the budget is not the work of the CSC.  Mr. Downes indicated he would like the CSC to be able to review the full budget for planning purposes.  Mr. Strahan said he could ask Ms. Davidson to request this.

 

Office of Human Resources Update – Susan Rafferty

Ms. Rafferty discussed the Retirement Incentive Option (RIO) that was approved by the Board of Regents on February 11.  The RIO is an opportunity for voluntary retirement for eligible employees.  Faculty, P&A, Civil Service, Union Represented and University employees enrolled in federal health benefits may enroll in the program beginning February 15 through May 15, 2011.  All faculty and staff employees who elect to participate in the RIO must retire at a date mutually acceptable to the employee and his/her unit, but no later than January 11, 2012.  Ms. Rafferty noted that this is the third RIO the University has offered and the primary difference is that this one must be paid for by the departments rather than through central funds.  Mr. Strahan asked if the departments could deny requests for RIOÕs since they are funding them.  Ms. Rafferty stated that an employeeÕs participation in the voluntary program usually is mutually agreeable, but if the request is denied the employee  should speak with Employee Benefits.  Ms. Rafferty asked the CSC if there had been much interest in the RIO.  Mr. Strahan and Ms. Olson reported that there was interest in the RIO in their respective departments.

 

Ms. Rafferty also noted that the budget situation is extreme and referenced the budget scenarios the President presented to the Legislature and has communicated to the University community through emails.  There will also likely be another salary freeze, but this has yet to move through the consultative processes and collective bargaining processes for union-represented employees.

 

Subcommittee Updates

Compensation Benefits –Nancy Fulton

Ms. Fulton noted that the UniversityÕs budget situation is extreme as President Bruininks outlined in his statements to the State Legislature.  The Benefits Advisory Committee is reviewing changes to the health benefits plan.  Nothing is public yet, but there will be large cuts.  The BAC is working to insure that the cuts are equitable to all employees.

 

Advocacy Subcommittee Report –Susan Cable-Morrison

Ms. Cable-Morrison reported that she recently received notice of two issues.

One involves a constituent working through his/her lunch hour and leaving early, and the other concerns a requirement that vacation be taken in 40-week blocks.  Ms. Cable-Morrison noted she is still gathering information on both of these situations.  

 

Rick Densmore reported that he received a constituent call relating to the UniversityÕs weather-related closure and its impact on individuals working the third shift.  Mr. Densmore indicated he would contact Facilities Management to determine the exact hours of the UniversityÕs closure.  Ms. Cable-Morrison and Ms. Rafferty suggested contacting University Services Human Resources to help understand and resolve the issue.

 

Communications -Amy Olson

Mr. Strahan stated he would provide Ms. Olson with the chairs report for the e-InTouch Newsletter.  Ms. Olson indicated that the newsletter would also include the dates for the public hearing on the CS employment rules amendments. 

 

Professional Development  - Frank Strahan (for Carolyn Davidson)

Mr. Strahan presented two professional development funds requests.  One from a Research Compliance Supervisor requesting $200.00 to attend a conference and one from a Info Tech. Professional for $170.00 to attend a conference.  The Professional Development Subcommittee recommended not funding either request because the Research Compliance Supervisor was receiving departmental support and the Info. Tech Professional received CS professional development funds in 2010.  The CSC recommended approval of funds for the Research Compliance Supervisor and denied the request of the Info Tech. Professional because he was a recent recipient of CS funds.

 

Rules – Blake Downes

Mr. Downes presented the CSC with a draft of the proposed amendments to CS Employment Rules 1, 3, 4, 5,7, 9, 11, and 14 (see below).

 

PROPOSED DRAFT 2/22/2011--to take effect 7/1/2011

INCLUDES PREVIOUSLY CONSENTED ITEMS, SENATE TRANSITION ITEMS FOR CONSENT, AND SEVERAL OTHERS RECOMMENDED FOR CONSENT

 

PART 1

CHANGES TO RULES 1 AND RULE 3 related to Civil Service Senate governance.

 

RULE 1 History, Purpose, Amendment of Rules

 

1.1 History and Purpose of the Rules

 

1.1.1 These rules, through June 30, 2011 prepared and recommended by the Vice President for the Office of Human Resources (The words Vice President as used in these Rules shall refer to the administrative head or designee of the Office of Human Resources) and the duly appointed Civil Service Committee in accordance with the authority vested in them by the Basic Law for Civil Service of the University of Minnesota, as approved by the Board of Regents on November 24, 1945, shall be were until the adoption of the Civil Service Senate Constitution known as the Civil Service Rules, or Rules. They shall govern the operation of the University of Minnesota Civil Service personnel system.

 

1.1.2 Henceforth prepared and recommended by the Vice President for the Office of Human Resources and the Civil Service Consultative Committee under the authority vested in them by the Board of Regents and the Civil Service Senate Constitution, they shall be known as the Civil Service Employment Rules, or Rules, and shall govern the operation of the University of Minnesota Civil Service personnel system from July 1, 2011 onward.

 

1.1.3 The words "Vice President" as used in these Rules shall refer to the administrative head or designee of the Office of Human Resources. The words "the President" shall refer to the President of the University of Minnesota. The words "Consultative Committee" or "the Committee" as used in these Rules shall refer to the Civil Service Consultative Committee, with powers and duties designated by the governing documents of the Civil Service Senate and by these Rules.

 

1.2 Application of the Rules

 

The Civil Service Employment Rules and ÒDefinitionsÓ shall cover all full-time, part-time, continuing, probationary, and temporary employees paid from University-administered funds except those holding academic appointments, student appointments, those covered under collective bargaining agreements, and temporary no-post and non-public employees (see ÒDefinitions).

 

1.3 Amendment of the Rules

 

1.3.1 Any University civil service employee may propose an amendment to the Civil Service Consultative Committee at any time. In consultation with the Vice-President, tThe Committee will solicit and review additional proposals, conduct public hearings, and recommend amendments to the Civil Service Senate and the President as deemed appropriate. A complete Rules review will be conducted once every two to at an interval no greater than every three years.

 

 

1.3.2 Other governing documents notwithstanding, any amendment must be approved by a 60% vote of the Consultative Committee and ratified by a 60% vote of the Civil Service Senate in order to be recommended to the President.

 

1.3.2  1.3.3  Public hearings are required before Rules amendments are voted upon by the Consultative Committee and the Civil Service Senate and proposed to the President. Notice of intention to amend the Rules specifying the date, hour, and place of the hearings shall be announced published in campus publications not less than 14 days before said hearing

 

1.3.3  1.3.4  Proposed revisions will be made available at least seven days before the public hearings on the Office of Human Resources worldwide web home page currently at http://www.umn.edu/ohr/ or through the Office of Human Resources.

 

1.3.4  1.3.5  The Vice President and Civil Service Consultative Committee shall recommend present to the President all proposed amendments that have been approved by the Consultative Committee and ratified by the Civil Service Senate.  After consultation with the Vice President and the Civil Service Consultative Committee, the President shallmay recommend any or all of the amendmentsmake recommendations to the Board of Regents for their consideration. The members of the Board of Regents shall be provided with copies of the proposed amendments.

 

1.3.5  1.3.6  Amendments shall become effective upon adoption by the Board of Regents except as otherwise specifically provided within the amendment. The Vice President shall promptly transmit notification to administrators and shall make the Rules and amendments available to employees.

 

...

 

[Subsequent sections will be renumbered.]

 

1.4 Distribution of the Rules

 

All employees shall have access to the Rules on the Civil Service website at: http://www.umn.edu/csc/ or from the Office of Human Resources, http://www.umn.edu/ohr/.

 

 

 

RULE 3 Civil Service Consultative Committee, Civil Service Senate, Human Resources, University Administration

 

3.1 Structure and Governance of the Civil Service Governance                     

 

3.1.1  In accordance with the governing documents of the Civil Service Senate, Tthere shall be a Civil Service Consultative Committee. Both the Civil Service Senate and the Consultative Committee shall have specific powers and duties with respect to these Rules.   of fifteen members and a minimum of three alternates appointed by the President with the approval of the Board of Regents. Members shall be appointed to represent all areas, campuses, and central administration to include a representative balance from all civil service classifications. A current list of Civil Service Committee members is available on the worldwide web at http://www.umn.edu/csc or through the Office of Human Resources.

 

3.1.2  Terms of appointment shall be staggered to ensure that less than half of the terms expire in any calendar year. All appointments shall be for three-year terms unless a longer or shorter term is necessary to preserve the staggered term schedule.

 

3.1.3  The President will appoint a search committee to solicit nominations from the University community to fill Committee vacancies. The civil service search committee will solicit, interview and refer a slate of candidates to the President to appoint Committee members and alternates on an annual basis. The President will fill mid-year vacancies on the Committee from the pool of alternates in consultation with the search committee.

 

3.1.4  Members appointed to the Civil Service Committee shall be persons who have an understanding of University policies and personnel administration, and who are able to adjust their schedules to devote adequate time to Committee work. All Committee members must be Civil Service employees covered under these Rules. Full committee members may serve for a maximum of six consecutive years, except for under extenuating circumstances. 

 

3.1.5  Vacancies created by resignation, leave of absence for more than three months, termination of University civil service employment, or failure to attend three consecutive regular meetings unless on approved leave shall be filled by an alternate appointed by the President for the unexpired portion of the term. 

 

3.1.6  The alternates will be appointed to serve one-year terms. Alternates will serve without vote except as a member of an appeals panel and when attending a meeting of the Committee in place of a Committee member as their designee.

 

3.1.7  A quorum shall consist of a simple majority (one-half plus one) of the Committee membership. Appeals shall be handled by three-member panels. 

 

3.1.8  Aspects of Committee structure and governance not addressed by these Rules shall be covered by the  Committee's Bylaws, or by the current revision of Robert's Rules of Order.

 

3.1.9  Secretarial services and funds for Committee use (including, but not limited to meeting expenses, travel, publication of Rules or amendments, photocopying, and postage) shall be supplied as necessary by the PresidentÕs Office.

 

3.2 Powers and Duties of the Civil Service Consultative Committee with respect to these Rules

 

The Civil Service Consultative Committee Sshall:

 

3.2.1  review, conduct public hearings, and present recommendations to the President regarding Civil Service Rules, in accordance with Rule 1.3;

 

3.2.2  act as an appeals board in all cases involving supervisors or employees appealing decisions made by the Vice President in accordance with Rules 4, Position Classification Plan; and 5, Compensation System; Appeals shall be handled by panels consisting of at least three Consultative Committee members and/or alternates.

 

3.2.3  make investigations at the request of the Board of Regents, the President, the Vice President, Civil Service staff, or on its own initiative concerning personnel administration in University Civil Service;

 

3.2.4  interpret the intent or meaning of the Rules in cases of questions or disputes

 

3.2.5  act as consultants to the Vice President in developing performance appraisal plans (Rule 9, Section 19.1);

 

3.2.6  review the creation of new and elimination of obsolete job classifications (Rule 4, Section 44.4);

 

3.2.7  review and approve proposed changes to the compensation plan (Rule 5, Section 15.1); (Rule 5, Section 2;

 

3.2.8  review any proposed changes in any salary range that are requested by the Vice President (Rule 5.2)

 

3.2.9  appoint civil service representatives to the University Grievance Board and the Conflict Resolution Advisory Committee, and nominate civil service employees for selection to serve on the Hearing Officers Panel Officer Roster and the Panelist Roster (Rule 14);

 

3.2.10  appoint civil service representatives to other University committees and task forces as requested by the President;

 

3.2.11 coordinate the membership and election of Civil Service members to the University Senate including eligibility requirements, areas of representation, slate of candidates, and the filling of vacancies as per the Civil Service Committee Bylaws; and

 

3.2.11  perform such other duties as may be assigned to it by the President or these Rules.

 

3.3 Powers and Duties of the Civil Service Senate with respect to these Rules

 

In accordance with Rule 1.3, the Civil Service Senate shall ratify amendments to these Rules.

 

3.3 3.4 Role of the Vice President for Human Resources with respect to these Rules

 

No administrative action affecting the status, rate of pay, or classification of an employee or position in University Civil Service shall become final until approved by the Vice President or designee as being in conformance with these Rules.

 

3.4 3.5 Powers and Duties of Responsible University Administrators and Supervisors with respect to these Rules

 

Responsible administrators and supervisors (see ÒDefinitionsÓ) shall administer the policies and procedures referenced in these Civil Service Employment Rules and exercise all rights (unless denied them or otherwise prohibited by these Rules) inherent in the management process with respect to the supervision of employees.

 

 

PART 2

CHANGES TO OTHER RULES AND DEFINITIONS (reflecting only CSC name change except as marked)

 

4.2 Job Evaluation Questionnaires                    

 

...

 

4.2.8 The appropriate human resources officeÕs decision may be appealed by the employee within 45 calendar days after receiving the decision. Appeals must be made in writing to the Civil Service Consultative Committee.  Please refer to the classification appeal process found on the Civil Service website.

 

4.3 Periodic Surveys                                

 

4.3.1 An administrator or supervisor initiates a review of a Civil Service position within a unit by completing a Periodic Survey. Reclassifications resulting from the Periodic Survey will become effective on the first day of the pay period mutually agreed to by the appropriate human resources office and the administrative unit, and specified in writing.

 

4.3.2 The decision of the appropriate human resources office may be appealed by the employee within 45 calendar days after receiving the decision. Appeals must be made in writing to the Civil Service Consultative Committee.

 

4.4 Maintenance of the Classification Plan                      

 

4.4.1 The creation of new job classifications, the elimination of obsolete ones, and changes in titles or pay ranges of existing classifications shall be recommended by the Vice President for review by the Civil Service Consultative Committee and approved by the University administration.

 

4.4.2 In cases of emergency, the Vice President may establish a job classification on a provisional basis, assign it to an appropriate salary range, and approve the appointment of individuals to positions in the classification until the classification and salary range can be reviewed by the Civil Service Consultative Committee and approved by the University administration.

 

 

Rule 5 Compensation System             

 

5.1 Preparation of Compensation Plan

 

The Vice President shall prepare a compensation plan that includes provisions for any salary increases. The policy of equal pay for equal work, the University's ability to pay, labor market competitiveness, and internal pay equity will be the major considerations in formulating the compensation plan. The Vice President shall obtain approval of the Civil Service Consultative Committee and the Board of Regents. The current compensation plan can be viewed on the worldwide web at http://www1.umn.edu/ohr/toolkit/compensation/payplans/index.html or be obtained from the responsible administrator.

 

5.2 Salary Range Changes                   

 

5.2.1 The Vice President shall consider all written requests for changes in salary ranges from employees, supervisors, and responsible administrators. The Vice President shall notify all affected parties of the decision for or against a change. The Civil Service Consultative Committee shall review and the Vice President shall approve any proposed recommendations regarding salary range changes. Salary increases commensurate with the amount of the range adjustment shall be given to employees in job classifications that are affected, except where documented performance or documented funding considerations warrant withholding part or all of the increase or where such range adjustments are made for administrative purposes to improve the salary structure

 

5.2.2 The Vice President's decision may be appealed by the employee within 45 calendar days after receiving the decision. Appeals must be made in writing to the Civil Service Consultative Committee.

 

 

Rule 7 Probationary Period and Orientation  

[CHANGE based on 2009 discussions with OCR (Chalmers), OHR (Dion) and CSC]; needs CSC vote.

7.4 Probationary Rating

 

All probationary employees will have at least one written performance appraisal during their probationary period, except where immediate removal from the position is warranted;, such as serious job misconduct -- for example, falsification of records or misappropriation of University resources -- or workplace actions that endanger the health or safety of the employee or others.

Supervisors must use either the standardized University evaluation form or other Human Resources approved evaluation form, pursuant to Rule 9.1. The Vice President may, at any other time during the probationary period, ask the responsible administrator for additional oral and/or written statements regarding the employee's work performance. If a written performance appraisal is not given before the actual expiration date of an employee's probationary period, the employee will pass probation.

 

 

 

 

Rule 9 Performance Appraisal                            

 

9.1 Plan

 

The Vice President shall be responsible for developing and administering a performance appraisal plan. The plan shall be implemented after consultation with and input from the Civil Service Consultative Committee and other appropriate University personnel. Use of alternate plans must be approved by the Vice President after consultation with and input from the Civil Service Consultative Committee (refer also to Rule 7.4 Probationary Appraisal).

 

 

PENDING CHANGES TO RULE 11

 

REGARDING LEAVE TO CARE FOR ILL FAMILY MEMBERS (This reflects the subcommittee's preference for  Option 2 of 3 options presented by OHR to the subcommittee on 3/17/2010; this mirrors P&A policy; this language was approved by OHR as of 10/19/2010 and by CSC 11/18/2010)

 

11.5 General Provisions for Sick Leave            

 

...

 

11.5.10  Approved sick leave may be used to care for or arrange care for an employeeÕs child, including medical and dental appointments. Approved sick leave to care for an employee's sick child is not limited. EmployeeÕs child as used in this portion includes adoptive, biological, step-child, or foster child of the employee or of the employeeÕs registered same sex domestic partner.

 

11.5.11 Up to five days per incident 10 days per fiscal year may also be used by an employee to care for or make arrangements for the care of an ill member of the employee's immediate family. Immediate family as used in this portion of the Rule shall mean spouse, registered same sex domestic partner; and siblings, parents, grandchildren and wards of the employee, spouse, or registered same sex domestic partner.

 

....

 

[Subsequent sections of 11.5 will be renumbered.]

 

CLARIFYING PARENTAL LEAVE LANGUAGE (HR interpretation has been consistent in terms of "weeks"; employees with less than full time appointments or whose leave period contains holidays have misunderstood this on occasion. Change puts it in line with total time allowed for other units (BU & P&A). this language was approved by OHR as of 11/16/2010 and by CSC 11/18/2010)

 

11.7.2 Paid and Unpaid Leaves          

11.7.2.1 A civil service employee, on the occasion of the birth or adoption of the employeeÕs child may, upon request, take up to a 10-workday   two week paid parental leave of absence. The definition of employee child in this portion includes the adoptive or biological child of the employee or of the employeeÕs registered same sex domestic partner. This parental leave shall not be charged against the employee's accumulated vacation or sick leave. The parental leave shall begin at a time requested by the employee, although the leave may not begin more than six weeks after the birth or adoption. In the case where the child must remain in the hospital longer than the birth mother, the leave must begin no later than six (6) weeks after the child leaves the hospital. This leave must be consecutive and without interruption and must be taken during the term of appointment.

11.7.2.2 A birth mother may use the 10 workdays  two weeks of parental leave and up to 20 workdays  four weeks of accumulated sick leave immediately following the parental leave, which must commence no sooner than two weeks prior to the anticipated delivery date and no later than six (6) weeks after delivery. The birth mother may use accumulated vacation leave immediately following the sick leave. These leaves must be consecutive and without interruption and must be taken during the term of appointment. An unpaid leave of absence for maternity shall be granted to an employee for a period of up to six months, when requested in conjunction with the birth of the employee's child. This leave of absence without pay may be extended up to an additional six months upon the employee's request and with responsible administrator approval.

11.7.2.3 A birth father or adoptive parent may use the 10 workdays  two weeks of parental leave, immediately followed by accumulated vacation which must commence no sooner than two weeks prior to the anticipated delivery date and no later than six (6) weeks after the birth or adoption. These leaves must be consecutive and without interruption and must be taken during the term of appointment. An unpaid leave of absence shall be granted to an employee for a period of up to six months, when requested in conjunction with the birth or adoption of the employeeÕs child. This leave of absence without pay may be extended up to an additional six months upon the employeeÕs request and with responsible administrator approval.

 

Rule 14 University Conflict Resolution           

 

14.1 This policy applies to all University of Minnesota non-

bargaining unit employees, but all Civil Service Rules, including Rule 14, cover only employees specified in Rule 1, Section 2 1.2 of these rules. For the most current policy, refer to the worldwide web at www.umn.edu/ocr or contact the Office for Conflict Resolution.

 

14.2 The Office for Conflict Resolution shouldwill consult with the Civil Service Consultative Committee for interpretation of Civil Service Rules for grievances regarding Rules interpretation issues arising in petitions filed by civil service employees (Rule 3.1)(Rule 3.2.4).

 

DEFINITIONS    

 

Committee. Civil Service Consultative Committee of the University of Minnesota.

 

Mr. Downes explained that the initial changes to Rules 1,3,4, 5, 7, 9, 11, and 14 as they related to the CS transition to a CS Senate were primarily nominative, but as the Rules Subcommittee reviewed the changes with OHR other issues arose.  The primary issue is over the language the CSC proposed for Rule 1.3.5.  The CSC believes Rule1.3.5 should be clarified to state that proposed rules changes would be presented to the President after consultation with the Vice President of OHR, approval by the CSCC and ratification by the CS Senate.  Ms. Rafferty explained OHRÕs position that the current situation allows differing rules proposals to be presented to the President.  She noted that OHR is concerned that the language proposed by the CSC gives CS employees rights beyond those of represented bargaining unit employees.  OHR wants to maintain the possibility that it may disagree with the CSC and still bring its proposed CS Employment Rules amendments to the President.   It suggests adding a second sentence to Rule 1.3.5 that states Òthe Vice President may also present to the President proposed amendments that have been discussed at but have not been approved or ratified by the CSCC or CS Senate.Ó  Mr. Strahan, Mr. Downes and Ms. Rafferty discussed the differences in the CSCÕs interpretation of Rule 1.3.5 and OHRÕs interpretation.

 

OHR also proposed alternative language to Rules 1.2, 3.4, and 3.5.

 

This is in follow up to the 2/17/2011 meeting of Carol, Susan, Frank & Blake during which OHR agreed to prepare new language for Rules 1.2, 3.4, and 3.5 for Civil Service Committee discussion. 

 

1.2 Application of the Rules

 

The Civil Service Employment Rules and ÒDefinitionsÓ shall cover all full-time, part-time, continuing, probationary, and temporary employees paid from University-administered funds except those holding academic appointments, student appointments, those covered under collective bargaining agreements, and temporary no-post and non-public employees (see ÒDefinitionsÓ).

 

OHR Proposed Rewrite of 1.2:

 

The Civil Service Employment Rules cover all University employees in job classifications included in the civil service employee group.  Specifically excluded from coverage under these employment rules are temporary no-post and non-public employees (see ÒDefinitionsÓ).

 

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 3.4 Role of the Vice President for Human Resources with respect to these Rules

 

No administrative action affecting the status, rate of pay, or classification of an employee or position in University Civil Service shall become final until approved by the Vice President or designee as being in conformance with these Rules.

 

OHR Proposed Rewrite of 3.4:

 

The Vice President or designee shall:

3.4.1  make rule proposals (Rule 1.3.1);

3.4.2 consult with the Consultative Committee on rule proposals (Rule 1.3.2);

3.4.3 consult with the President on proposed rule amendments (Rule 1.3.6);

3.4.4 maintain the civil service job classification system (Rules 4.4.1 and 4.4.2);

3.4.5 prepare, consult with the Consultative Committee, and obtain approval of the President for a compensation plan (Rule 5.1);

3.4.6 determine salary range changes (Rule 5.2.1);

3.4.7 establish compensation policies (Rule 5.3);

3.4.8 determine the forms and manner for applications for civil service positions (Rule 6.4);

3.4.9 prescribe and maintain the application system for civil service positions (Rule 6.5);

3.4.10 approve certain probationary period requirements (Rule 7.2.2) and determine and publish probationary periods for job classifications (Rule 7.2.3); and

3.4.11 develop and administer a performance appraisal plan (Rule 9.1).

 

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3.5 Powers and Duties of Responsible University Administrators and Supervisors with respect to these Rules

 

Responsible administrators and supervisors (see ÒDefinitionsÓ) shall administer the policies and procedures referenced in these Civil Service Employment Rules and exercise all rights (unless denied them or otherwise prohibited by these Rules) inherent in the management process with respect to the supervision of employees.

 

OHR Proposed Rewrite of 3.5:

 

Eliminate because specific rules indicate what supervisors should do and it is too burdensome and not productive or instructive to restate those items in Rule 3.

 

The CSC approved the recommended changes to the Definitions section and the changes to Rules 14, 7.4, 5, 4, 3.1, and 1.1.  The changes to Rule 11 were approved at the CSCÕs November meeting.   The CSC did not act on the proposed changes to Rules 1.2,1.3, 1.4, 3.2, 3.3, 3.4, and 3.5.  Mr. Strahan indicated that the Rules Subcommittee would continue discussing Rule 1.3.5 with OHR, and proposed that the CSC meet again on Wednesday, March 2 to consider the remaining rules changes and the CS Consultative Committee charge, and to have a final vote on the CS Senate Bylaws.

 

Mr. Strahan asked for nominations for CSC vice-chair for 2011-2012.  Mr. Cavalier nominated Ms. Olson. 

 

Hearing no further business Mr. Strahan adjourned the meeting.

                                                                                    Dawn Zugay

                                                                                    University Senate Office