By Steven Schwartz
Iola Register – December 10, 2013
Submitted by Newz Group Clipping Service – December 13, 2013
It seems tying up loose ends is all that is left for the Iola city council regarding the EMS merger, but some may be a bit more difficult than others.
Efforts will continue to complete a wage and compensation study for the city employees. However, council members are still skeptical as to whether the city should pay rent at the EMS building on North State Street.
The fee being requested by the county commissioners–which the council admitted as nominal–is $250 per month. The council, however, also said the space is essential for the merger to be successful.
“I can’t agree to it (the rent),” Councilman Steven French said. “Why are we paying to house something that benefits the county.”
French kickstarted a discussion regarding the space “as a matter of principle” for the city, as well as a matter of content in the contract. He said the council was under the impression that all buildings under EMS jurisdiction would be transferred to the city.
Councilman Jon Wells agreed, but ultimately was willing to sign off on the rent for the sake of moving ahead. The council ultimately tabled the decision upon review by City Attorney Bob Johnson.
“It seems a little disingenuous considering the original agreement,” Wells said.
“I agree with Steve, but I think we need to move on,” Council member Beverly French chimed in.
As for the wage and compensation study, the council agreed that some sort of study is needed and bids will be opened soon for a decision in January.
“At a minimal, we’re in the right place,” French said. “Something needs to be done.”
The current pay scale was developed by former interim City Administrator Richard Chesney between April 2004 and Jan. 2005.
French added that any information regarding a study should be released to employees, for the sake of intent and transparency.
“I think the employees need to be informed on what’s going on, and what we intend to do about it,” he said.
Speaking of employees…
Employees being picked up by the City of Iola for the EMS merger as of December 9 are Michael Hueston, Eric Sanders, Elizabeth Drake, Randy Holtz, Grady Ratliff, Sarah McDaniel, Ashley Robb and Jordan Thurman.
The council, following an executive session, voted to increase EMS Director Ryan Sell’s pay from $16.15 to $19.15 per hour. Sell replaced Ron Conaway as director in October.
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