CITY OF SUNNYVALE

Council Study Session

Wage Policy for Maintenance Contracts

October 26, 2004 - 6:00 p.m.

West Conference Room

The City Council met in a study session at City Hall in the West Conference Room, 456 West Olive Avenue, Sunnyvale, California on October 26, 2004 at 6:00 p.m., with Vice-Mayor Dean Chu presiding.

Council Present:     Mayor John Howe

Vice-Mayor Dean Chu

Council Member Otto Lee

Council Member Julia Miller

Council Member Ron Swegles

Council Member Fred Fowler

Council Absent:      Council Member Melinda Hamilton (Excused)

Staff Present:         Amy Chan, City Manager

                             Chuck Schwabe, Deputy City Manager

                             Joan Borger, Acting City Attorney

                             Marvin Rose, Director of Public Works

Mary Bradley, Director of Finance

Robert Walker, Director of Parks and Recreation

Jack Witthaus, Transportation and Traffic Manager

Elaine Wesely, Purchasing Officer

Visitors / Guests Present: None

Vice-Mayor Chu called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.

Study Session Summary

I.    Background on Wage Payments for City Maintenance Projects

The City Manager introduced a discussion of wage policy as it relates to construction and maintenance contracts, payment of prevailing wages, and the current status of law regarding prevailing wages.

II.   Current Laws and Regulations Pertaining to Charter Cities and Prevailing Wage

The Acting City Attorney discussed the recent and pending laws and legal actions with respect to the charter city exemption from payment of prevailing wage for maintenance contracts.  The Director of Public Works and Director of Finance discussed practical and current applications of prevailing wage on City construction and maintenance contracts.

III.  Proposed Impacts to the City of Sunnyvale

The City Manager and Director of Finance summarized potential impacts to the City budget of a change in prevailing wage policy for City maintenance contracts. The potential for bringing services “in-house” was outlined.  Impacts on budget and quality of services were discussed.

IV.   Questions

Staff responded to questions from City Council Members.

Adjournment

The Study Session was adjourned at 6:30 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Jack Witthaus, Transportation and Traffic Manager