SUBJECT/RECOMMENDATION:
Title
Approve contract with the State of Florida Division of Administrative Hearings, pursuant to Clearwater Code of Ordinances Section 2.563(1)(g) Legal, and authorize the appropriate officials to execute same.
Body
SUMMARY:
The City of Clearwater Employees’ Pension Plan governs the payment of retirement benefits for City employees.
In 2024, the City and labor unions agreed to a change in the disability process for members. Under the new process, the City Manager, after consideration of all relevant factors, may either enter a stipulated approval for an applicant’s disability retirement benefit or schedule an evidentiary hearing. If the City Manager enters into a stipulated approval, an agenda item shall be brought before the Pension Trustees confirming the stipulation. If the City Manager opts for an evidentiary hearing, the hearing shall be conducted by the State of Florida Division of Administrative Hearings. The hearing officer shall review the application for a disability retirement, determine whether the claim meets the criteria for awarding a disability pension benefit, and issue a recommended order. The hearing officer shall then transmit the recommended order composed of findings of fact, conclusions of law, and disposition to the Pension Trustees.
Due to the change in the disability process, this contract is needed to provide the City with the services of the hearing officers. The contract rate for services is $207.00 per hour plus expenses. The contract is for one year and renews automatically. The City Manager will execute the contract on behalf of the City.
APPROPRIATION CODE AND AMOUNT:
Funds are available in cost code 6467410-530100, Clearwater Employees’ Pension Plan, to fund this contract.