ImprovementsAccoring to HCP Associates there were a number of items that improved at least three percentage points this year compared to the 2015 results.

A few examples include:

These represent significant improvements in your eyes over the last two years.

To view past issues of The Pen, visitwww.pinellascounty.org/hr/publications.htm.

November 2017 • Vo l . 45 No.11

INSIDEBlood Donor Honor Rolls and Drives ... 2

Ask HR / Class & Comp Study Update ... 3

New Planning & Performance Manager ... 3

LEAD Graduation ... 4

Annual Enrollment Reminder ... 5

Working Together ... 5

Workforce Connections Committee ... 6

PAO Elite of Assessment Business ... 6

Upcoming Classes ... 7

Promotions / Clerk Receives Recognition ... 8

Vote for Your EAC Representative ... 9

Service Anniversaries / Holiday Lights ... 10

Retirements / County Office Recycling ... 11

Welcome Aboard! ... 12

Our Generous Community ... 13

Record Keeper / Pets of the Month ... 13

Green Pinellas / Consumer Corner ... 14

EXTRA ... 15 & 16

Click on the topic to go directly to the page.

Continued on page 2.

Holly Schoenherr, DirectorHuman Resources

2017 Employee Voice Survey Results for the Unified Personnel System

Pinellas County’s most valuable assets are you and your fellow employees. And for Pinellas County to cultivate a quality workforce in a positive sup-portive organization, it is very impor-tant to hear from you about what is going well and where we can improve.

Pre-SurveyIn an effort to increase participation in the 2017 Employee Voice survey, earlier this year we gave presentations at meetings of Appointing Authori-ties, BCC Directors, and the Employees’ Advisory Council (EAC) Representatives and Delegates.

The dialogue was incredibly helpful to understanding your concerns about participating in the survey. The top two concerns were:

a sense that no action would betaken in response to feedbackprovided, and,

that individuals would be identifi-able within the results.

We took an extra step to ensure con-fidentiality and separation between Pinellas County and the survey results. No raw data was handled by the County at any point during the survey

or analysis. The outside consultant, HCP Associates, managed all ques-tions, emails, data and reporting.

To address your concerns about follow up, we promise to report back to you throughout the year the actions that are taken as a result of your feedback.

ResultsWe are very pleased to report that the UPS-wide response rate for 2017 was 74%, up from 58% in 2015. That’s a 16% increase.

I want to thank to everyone that took the time to com-plete the 2017 Employee Voice Survey. Employee engagement is the foundation of a successful workplace.

2017 2015 % Change

Rewarding/recognizing high-performing employees

51% 27% +24%

Dealing with low-performing employees

43% 24% +19%

Defining department performance objectives

67% 49% +18%

Applying discipline fairly and consistently

53% 35% +18%

I have received recognition or praise for doing good work in the last quarter

75% 61% +14%

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BLOOD DRIVE

Mark Your Calendars

Public Works22211 US Hwy. 19 N.Building 1, ClearwaterJanuary 2512:00 - 5:00

Utilities Building14 S. Fort Harrison Ave. ClearwaterJanuary 25, 20188:30 - 1:30

Logan Lab1620 Ridge RoadLargoJanuary 9, 201810:00 - 12:00

Downtown ClearwaterCourthouse315 Court St., west lotJanuary 10, 201811:00 - 4:00

You can schedule an appointment at

www.oneblooddonor.org.

Oct. 24, Logan LabAndrew HIllDavid HansenCharles Toney

Oct. 25, Public WorksBrandy PellegrinoCraig Warren, Sr.Gregory DuqueJohn GrahamLJ WoodSharla BeckerChester WilliamsDennis McDuffy, Jr.Ivanetta DorseyKirk SmithNorman JesterWendy Taylor

Oct. 25, 315 Court St.Carmen MillerChristopher TraunerJodi FoxMargaret UhleVijayakalyana MudunuriCharles MiyawaJames RussellKaren FreytagPaul Fry

November 2, 14 S. Fort HarrisonAntonio HorrnikBrittney HoustonChance WaltonDavid SadowskyJames HallLaura GardnerMark TitleyMichelle SullivanPaul BellhornBenton RothermelCecilia McCorkellCurtis GossDoris McHughKathryn WaselewskiManderley BarrowsMichael EngelmannNoel CooneyYana Matiyuk

You were asked to offer ratings of Pinellas County in general as an employer, as well as rate your department, workgroup, supervisor and Appointing Authority on a series of 60 measurements. The questions reflected workplace aspects such as pride, camaraderie, respect, credibility and fairness.

Key Findings Respondents rated 57 of 60 questions favorably (over 50% positive ratings).

89% of UPS employees are likely to recommend working for Pinellas County.

The highest rated item was Maintaining a work environment that is free of drug or alcohol abuse (92% positive). Other highly rated items included:

Competitive benefits (87%)

Values fit with the organization (85%)

Quality of work being done in your workgroup (87%)

Items rated favorably by FEWER than 50%:

Dealing with low-performing employees (43% positive)

Compensation (salary and benefits) compared with similar opportunities (46% positive)

The lowest rated item was There is a connection between compensation and performance (35% positive).

We recognize that compensation is an area of low satisfac-tion among employees. The Classification and Compensa-tion Study, which was a direct action as a result of the 2015 survey, is well underway and we expect the results in early 2018. An important outcome of the study will be an analysis of how the County’s compensation compares to the market. Pinellas County is committed to fair and competitive pay for all position. Once we get the results, there will still be a lot of work to do, and we will continue to give you progress updates in a timely and transparent manner.

The UPS-wide survey results, the Executive Summary, and the summary of open-ended comments are posted at www.pinellascounty.org/hr/employeevoice.

My commitment to you from the beginning of this process has to been to share the results with you in a timely and transparent manner, and I look forward to our continued discussions regarding strategies to continuously improve the work environment for all employees and to position Pinellas County as a top-choice employer in the Tampa Bay region.

We have shared the survey results for each Appointing Authority with them, and they will share those results with you.

Average positve ratings

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Q. I completed my annual enroll-ment yesterday, but at the end, itseemed I just went in a circle, from

“Confirmation Statement” to“Update” or something like that. Howcan I tell that I've completed it?

A. A quick way to check is, while on the first page, youcan see updates you’ve made such as the Coverage StartDate of January 2018 next to the Tobacco Premium.

On the screen where you select Finish, there is a confirma-tion with check mark near the top that states “Your chang-es have been saved. To make additional changes, return to the Overview page and repeat the process. Please print this page for your records.” (Benefits recommends that you print the Confirmation Statement.)

OPUS is set-up to bring individuals back to the Overview page. Once the Finish button is selected, you land back at the Overview page and can begin the process again if you need to change anything. You can make changes until 11:59 p.m., Friday, November 17.

HR Hires New Planning & Performance Manager, Terri WallaceHuman Resources welcomes Terri Wallace as HR Planning and Performance Manager. Terri started October 16th and will oversee HR’s strategic planning, performance management, Business Partnerships and Employee Relations functions.

Terri will contribute to the Unified Personnel System her valuable experience in organizational effectiveness, organizational development, and employee relations with the City of Greensboro, North Carolina. Terri holds a master’s degree in Industrial and Organizational Psychology and Management and has earned certifi-cations as a Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR), International Public Management Association Certified Professional in Human Resources (IPMA-CP), and Organizational Development Certification from UNC-Charlotte.

What drew you to this position?

The combination of responsibilities are attractive in that they require a synthesis of areas I have worked with in my career. The energy I encountered through the hiring process felt very much like a fit for where my passion lies for making a difference for employees and our customers.

What do you like to do in your spare time?

I am an avid outdoor enthusiast which includes walk-ing, boating, bicycling, scootering, landscaping, and playing on the beach with family and friends.

Any other thoughts?

I look forward to being a part of a department which truly practices and believes we are responsible for

“helping you succeed.” I believe in communicating in a manner that openly deals with the situations at hand, while respecting diverse viewpoints. One of my priorities will be listening and learning the nuances of Pinellas County work culture, after spending many years in city government. Everyone has been very sup-portive and helpful in my first several weeks; and I feel fortunate to have so much wisdom and talent around me, and throughout the organization.

AAA ZZZINDEX

to

Find what you need on the HR website quickly and easily

with the A to Z Index. Access the link on the blue menu bar from any Human Resources web page. New index items are added fre-quently. Let us know if you have items to add.

Find it Fast: HR from A to Z

Class & Comp Study Ahead of Schedule!The Evergreen Solutions staff are projecting that the Classifica-tion and Compensation study will be completed in March of 2018, which is two months earlier than originally expected.

The Benchmark Salary Survey Has BegunThe consultants are currently collecting market data on identified benchmark jobs. “Benchmarking” refers to the compensation practice of matching the County’s jobs to ex-ternal jobs that have similar job content. The market data will be collected from targeted employers and from reputable and established 3rd party survey sources. In order to ensure that our pay rates are competitive with our labor market, the data will include pay rates for private sector as well as public sector employers.

Listed below are the remaining major project milestones and their projected completion timeframes:

• November 2017 - Complete proposed classificationstructure ( job hierarchy).

• December 2017 - Complete the salary survey.• January 2018 – Complete the proposed solutions and cost

estimates.• February 2018 – Complete the revised class descriptions

including Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) status.• March 2018 – Complete the study and provide the final

report.

HR has a webpage devoted to the classification and compen-sation study. This is the best source of information regarding the status of the project.

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The GraduatesGuillermo (Billy) Bay, BCC Utilities EngineeringMerry Celeste, BCC Public Works Technical ServicesMeagan Decker, HR Planning and PerformanceJonathan Ferguson, BTS Business OperationsRaymond Gambling, BCC Public Works Construction

ManagementEdwin Guasp-Santos, BCC Solid WasteChristina Goodrich, BCC UtilitiesPamela Grabo, BCC Risk ManagementCynthia Haumann, CCC Court AssistanceTess Jackson, CCC Civil Court RecordsDeneta Jones, BCC Public Works TransportationKaren Kelley, CCC Probate Court RecordsKyminda Lehman, BTS Business OperationsDaniel Magelnicki, CCC Recording Services Official RecordsSherry ( Jane) Muhrlin, BCC Human Services AdministrationJason Ohman, BCC Consumer ProtectionDana A. Riiska, BCC Real Estate ManagementJason Rivera, BCC Office of Management and BudgetMegan Ross, BCC Utilties Plant OperationsBenton Rothermel, BCC Public Works Technical ServicesJonathan Skinner, BCC Parks and Conservation ResourcesJeremy Waugh, BCC Utilities EngineeringBernie Young, CCC Finance

GraduationCongratulations to the 23 employees who completed the two-year Leadership Enhancement And Develop-ment (LEAD) program!

The LEAD Program was a two-year educational series designed by Human Resources to provide a leadership pipeline and meet future succession and continuity needs in Pinellas County government. Participants dedicated multiple hours including on-the-job training, classroom learning and project management.

The graduates are now better prepared and motivated for more effective leadership roles.

On November 2, instructors, coaches and sponsors gathered to celebrate their achievements, share wis-dom, and the graduates received their certificates of achievement.

The morning included comments from keynote speaker, Janet C. Long, Chair, Pinellas County Board of County Commissioners. She encouraged the group to work to create a climate in which everyone wants to do their best and to talk about possibilities and best case scenarios—to talk beyond just today. She challenged the graduates to “get used to being comfortable with being uncomfortable” and “don’t be afraid to fail.”

Commissioner Long also spoke of the Seventh Genera-tion Principle espoused by Native American culture. This principle says that, in every decision, we must consider how it will affect our descendants seven generations in the future. It acknowledges our connection to the people who have not yet been born.

Several of the graduates also spoke about their experi-ences and offered gratitude for what they felt was a very valuable series.

Each of the graduates have demonstrated a serious commitment to ongoing learning and self-develop-ment. We wish them well.

Guest LecturersDr. Mary Lippitt, Award-winning AuthorCharles “Carlos” Thomas, Tax CollectorJack Loring, Human Resources Officer, Classification &

CompensationHolly Schoenherr, Director, Human ResourcesRandi Kim, Director, UtilitiesDavid Downing, Director, Convention and Visitors BureauGeorges Gonzalez, Director, Utilities Customer Services

CoachesGwen Brooks, Property Appraiser’s Office Greg Carro, Business Technology Services Tim Closterman, Human Resources Joe DeMoss, Construction Management Rose DiGennaro, Tax Collector’s Office Kelli Hammer Levy, Environmental Manage-ment Cynthia Johnson, Economic Development Rakesh Patel, Clerk’s Technology Gene Pressoir, Human Resources Andrew Pupke, Real Estate Management Joan Read, Human Resources Denise Schmidt, Property Appraiser’s Office Andy Squires, Environmental Management

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2018 Annual EnrollmentEnds Friday, November 17, 2017

Action Checklistq Visit the Annual Enrollment website.

q Discuss your 2018 options with your family or a financial advisor.

q Compare the two health plan options by using the Plan Cost Estimator Tool.

q If you take any long-term maintenance medi-cations and are not using Walgreens retail or Express Scripts home delivery to fill the prescrip-tion, select one of these options and begin the transfer of your prescription(s) to avoid paying full cost.

q Consider a Flexible Spending Account for dependent care or health care if your eligible expenses add up to at least $260 per year.

q Begin a tobacco cessation program now if you used tobacco once a week in the past three months and want to avoid the annual tobacco premium in 2018.

q Review your life insurance and consider supplemental coverage.

q If you want benefits coverage for your domes-tic partner and his or her child(ren), review the FAQs and complete the necessary documents.

q Review your life insurance beneficiary information in OPUS for accuracy.

q Consider Annual Leave Exchange.

q Enroll no later than November 17, 2017.

All employees must enroll in OPUS by Friday,

Employees who have other medical coverage must select Opt Out for 2018 in OPUS and provide proof of coverage by November 17 to Employee Benefits.

Be prepared with information about those you are enrolling in benefits coverage, including their names as shown on their social security card, social security number, and date of birth.

Enroll in OPUS at home or at work to complete your benefits enrollment:• Go to http://opus.pinellascounty.org, or go to

www.pinellascounty.org, select Online Services from the menu at the top, and select OPUS.

• Select PIN Employee Self Service, Benefits & Annual Enrollment, and begin.

NEW FOR 2018 - You must designate in OPUS whether you are a tobacco user. If you do not enroll in OPUS, you will be considered a tobacco user and subject to a $600 annual tobacco premium.

q

Appointing Authorities and the EAC Working TogetherNew Policy: Respectful Workplace Behavior/ Anti-Bullying Policy

The Employees’ Advisory Council (EAC), Human Resources (HR), the Office of Human Rights (OHR) along with other partners have authored and gained the support of the Appointing Authorities for the Respectful Workplace Behavior/Anti-Bullying Policy. The Unified Personnel Board approved the policy at the November 2 meeting. This policy is meant to communicate to employees at all levels that respectful behavior shall be the standard of Pinellas County and that the County will not tolerate and will promptly address bullying behavior towards employees, applicants for employment, and others in the workplace, including contractors and members of the public.

The policy is effective immediately. Employees found in violation of this policy may face disciplinary action, up to and including termination.

Some behaviors that may be considered bullying may be viola-tions of Pinellas County Anti-Harassment Policy or Workplace Violence Policy. If any characteristic of the bullying behavior is protected under federal, state or local law (for example, bul-lying someone on the basis of race or gender), it should be reported to the Office of Human Rights.

Employees who believe they are the target of bullying or who witness others being bullied in the workplace are encouraged to report it.

Read the full policy.

Floating Holiday Converted to Personal DayIn an effort to allow more scheduling flexibility for employees to address unpredictable life events, the EAC requested that one of the three floating holidays be changed to a personal day. Personal days do not have to be scheduled in advance and are not considered “unscheduled leave.” The EAC noted the fact that this would not have an impact on the budget. All of the Appointing Authorities were in favor and the Unified Personnel Board approved the change at their November 2, 2017 meet-ing. The change takes effect December 24, 2017.

FMLA Update

The federal Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) allows for eli-gible employees to balance their work and family life by taking up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave for certain family or medical reasons. It provides guarantees of job security and employee benefits continuation during the leave. The most well-known reason for FMLA leave is the birth or adoption of a child although it may apply in other situations as well.

In the past, with the birth/adoption of a child, if both the parents were UPS employees, the 12 weeks had to be shared between the parents. Effective January 1, 2018, if both parents are employed by a Unified Personnel System (UPS) Appointing Authority, eligible parents may EACH be allowed 12 weeks FMLA leave.

The EAC presented the Appointing Authorities with research and a rationale for changing the policy. All Appointing Authorities were in favor and the Unified Personnel Board approved the change November 2, 2017.

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Workforce Connections Committee FormedPreviously published in the November 2017 Leadership Notes

To help position Pinellas County Government as a top choice employer in the Tampa Bay region, Human Resources is collaborating with each of the Appointing Authorities and has established the Workforce Connections Committee.

The Committee is working to enhance the County’s engagement in the community by:

Organizing, prioritizing, and centralizing the various touchpoints the County has in the community to build a diverse, talented, and engaged workforce

Providing opportunities for County employees to volunteer in purposeful and meaningful ways in the communities we serve

Building positive awareness of Pinellas County Government, our employees, our careers and giving back to the community

The Committee is working to build a talent pipeline.

Short-Term Talent Acquisition

The Committee will:

Perform targeted outreach with schools, colleges, professional and trade organizations, skills development

and job retraining programs to cultivate relationships and attract a pipeline of candidates to meet current and known future needs

Coordinate County representation at job and career fairs and events

Long-Term Talent Acquisition

The Committee will:

Cultivate relationships with organizations that supply talent to the employment market

Create student interest well in advance of graduation through facility tour programs, job shadowing initiatives, internship/ externship/apprenticeship opportunities within departments to build a pipeline of candidates to meet future needs

The Committee is working to create positive and engaging partnerships to promote the County’s strategic initiatives through targeted recruiting, coordination of attendance at job fairs, creation of ongoing relationships with com-munity educational partners, and promotion of outreach opportunities to County employees.

The Committee meets once a month. Visit www.pinellas county.org/hr/workforce for more information.

Committee Members

The Workforce Connections Committee is: Chair Diane Conroy, Human Resources Co-Chair Irena Karolak, Human Resources Greg Carro, Business Technology Services Rodney Chatman, Forward Pinellas Tim Closterman, Human Resources Amanda Coffey, County Attorney’s Office Teresa Del Rio, Clerk of the Circuit Court Rose DiGennaro, Tax Collector Jim Hollingsworth, Property Appraiser’s Office Jason Latimer, Supervisor of Elections Jeffery Lorick, Office of Human Rights Jack Loring, Human Resources Canaan McCaslin, BCC Carla Mitchell, BCC

Elite of the Assessment Business

The Pinellas County Property Appraiser’s Office is proud to announce that the International Association of Assess-ing Officers (IAAO) has again awarded this office with the Certificate of Excellence in Assessment Administra-tion which is earned every five years. This prestigious certificate, first earned in 2011, bears the distinction of being “the elite of the assessment business.”

IAAO’s Certificate of Excellence in Assessment Adminis-tration recognizes governmental units and individuals involved with assessment who utilize best appraisal and assessment practices in their offices. Jurisdictions that earn this designation demonstrate a high level of pro-ficiency in the assessment and appraisal disciplines to both their constituents and their peers.

Our office embarked on the “Excellence Project” in November of 2010 with a focus on the ability to provide excellent customer service and produce a tax roll that reflects the realities of the real estate market while meeting the requirements of Florida’s very complex property tax system. The analysis touched on every facet of office performance including appraisal methodolo-gies, exemption administration, public information and education programs. Also reviewed were vital elements

of processes that the public doesn’t usually see, like sales ratio studies, computerization, GIS applications, mapping, sales qualification, budgeting, and staffing. The five-year recertification process in 2016/2017 reviewed and evalu-ated four aspects of our processes demonstrating our continued commitment to assessment excellence.

“By way of the recertification process in 2016/2017, we continued to identify areas that could use further refine-ment due to changing technologies and staff proficiency” says Pinellas County Property Appraiser Mike Twitty.

“We expect this to be an ongoing process as we constant-ly vet new tools and technology to gain efficiencies while increasing accuracy and equitability throughout the assessment roll. We also expect this process to positively impact the customer service experience of the future, offering the public more ways to access data, apply for exemptions and communicate with our office. These advances could not be made without the exceptional work of our staff in all departments. I’m so proud of the teamwork that they exhibit and their exceptional han-dling of the public on a daily basis, which make them very deserving of this honor. “

By Sandy Leggett, Executive Assistant, Property Appraiser’s Office

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Upcoming Training ClassesSome classes fill up quickly so request enrollment early

through OPUS Learning Management (OLM).

Find a complete list of courses with descriptions in the 2017 Consortium Training Catalog which is continually updated. Need assistance? Contact Training and Development at 464-3796 or email training@pinellascounty.org.

Budget 101 December 62 hours

This training course is designed to help managers and directors understand how they can be effective and responsible stewards of the public’s resources.

Managers and directors of departments and agencies are hired for their skills in managing specific operations that encompass a variety of resources including personnel and equipment. Managing a budget requires another set of tools and the training to understand how to use them effectively.

This introductory course will provide an overview of the Pinellas County budget, stakeholder roles, rules govern-ing the County budget, how and why the County adopts its annual budget, the process for developing the budget, reports, and resources available for additional assistance.

Strongly recommended for all staff responsible for manag-ing all or part of their department’s budget.

Grants 101 December 73.5 hours

Overview of the grants management process for Pinellas County BCC Departments.

Intended Audience: All employees of the BCC Departments who work with grants or may be in the future.

Tech BiTsTechnology Training Lab Self ServiceHave you tried to complete online training, but can’t because…?

If you find yourself wanting to complete ULearnIT online training to help with your professional devel-opment, but are unable to for various reasons, Pinellas County employees can now utilize the Technology Training Lab in Annex 138, 400 S. Fort Harrison Ave., Clearwater.

Starting in December, the lab will be open on select Mondays and Fridays from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. and 2:00 to 4:00 p.m.

If you would like some assistance getting started, come to the lab from 8:30 to 9:00 a.m. or 1:30 to 2:00 p.m. on the open lab dates for a brief overview of ULearnIT.

Reminder: Discuss any training needs with your supervisor or manager.

For additional information or to sign up, please email Training@pinellascounty.org.

Visit our HR Training & Development site for sched-uled open lab dates and times, upcoming classes, our training catalog, and additional resources.

Technology Training – Classes Still Available!Microsoft Outlook Core Essentials 2013 (next class 12/7)

Attend a 3 ½ hour hands-on learning experience that covers all the core essentials of Microsoft Outlook 2013.

Explore ways to manage mail, calendar and people. Determine methods to organize your mail-box. Learn skills to get the most out of your Outlook.

Basic proficiency with computer keyboarding and mouse skills is required. Need assistance with these skills prior to class? Visit GCF LearnFree for hands-on tutorials.

Register here through OPUS.

Microsoft Excel Core Essentials 2013 (next class 12/12)

Attend a 3 ½ hour hands on learning experience that covers all the core essentials of Microsoft Excel 2013.

Topics covered include the new Flash Fill feature, using formulas and func-tions, inserting PivotTables and Pivot-Charts, and customizing the Excel 2013 interface.

Basic proficiency with computer key-boarding and mouse skills is required. Need assistance with these skills prior to class? Visit GCF LearnFree for hands-on tutorials.

Register here through OPUS.

Microsoft Word Core Essentials 2013 (next class 12/13)

Attend a 3 ½ hour hands-on learning experience that covers all the core essentials of Microsoft Word 2013.

Topics covered include adding online images and video to a document, customizing a document using basic and advanced formatting and edit-ing tools, and ways to polish the final version before printing or sharing the document.

Basic proficiency with computer key-boarding and mouse skills is required. Need assistance with these skills prior to class? Visit GCF LearnFree for hands-on tutorials.

Register here through OPUS.

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PromotionsPromotions listed are for October 2017.

Board of County Commissioners

Public WorksRobert Alexander, Jr. ..................................Crew Chf 3Cedric Pace ..................................................Crew Chf 2David Taylor .............................................Traf Sig TechGregory Watson ................................................Maint 2

Safety & Emergency ServicesPamela Bell ............................ Regulatory Compl MgrBrigett Cerce ................. 911 Pub Safety Telecomm 3Larissa Cobo ................. 911 Pub Safety Telecomm 3Eileen Conway ............. 911 Pub Safety Telecomm 3Brian Gallaher .............. 911 Pub Safety Telecomm 3Michael Hammond ..... 911 Pub Safety Telecomm 3Rebecca Horn ..................................Admin Supt SpecAndrea Jordan .............. 911 Pub Safety Telecomm 3Nicole Knoph ............... 911 Pub Safety Telecomm 3Theresa Robinette ...........................Admin Supt SpecOtto Sandleben ............ 911 Pub Safety Telecomm 3Sandy Stoinski .............. 911 Pub Safety Telecomm 3

UtilitiesHoward Leishman, Jr. ...................Elect Equip Tech 2 Megan Ross ..................................................Sect Mgr 3

Property Appraiser's OfficeDina Meath ....................................... PAO Appraiser 2Kathy Snead ...................................... PAO Appraiser 2Krista Spaccarelli ................................ Prop Rcds Spec

Clerk of the Circuit Court

Ermiral Kola.....................................................Crt Clk SrJoseph Lauro ...................................................Crt Clk SrSolandia Mells .......................................... Crt Rec SupvMarion Nuraj ...................................................Crt Clk SrMichael Schmidt ..................................... Board Rep SrElizabeth Walker .............................................Crt Clk Sr

Business Technology Services

Becky Batten* ...........................................IT Analyst SrJohn Boscarino ...................................... Prog Mgr BTSNathan Coleman ........................ Info Tech Analyst SrLisa Gentry ........................................Info Tech AnalystAngela Labiak ........................................Info Tech SpecChristopher Pace ......................BTS Chf Info TchnlgstMason Parianous ..................................Info Tech SpecRobert Price .....................................Info Tech AnalystJeffrey Schaefer .....................................Info Tech Spec

Construction Licensing BoardThuyvy Nguyen Connelly ..................... Office Spec SrNicole Riley ............................................. Office Spec Sr

Human ResourcesIrena Karolak ................................................ HR Coord

Tax Collector's OfficeKaren Allen .......................................... Cust Svc Tech 2Michael Currier ................................... Cust Svc Tech 2Melinda Feigel .......................................... Tax Tech LdCynthia Fisher ........................................... Tax Tech LdMichael Jenkins ................................... Cust Svc Tech 2Brittany Lowe ...................................... Cust Svc Tech 2Brenda Santiago ................................. Cust Svc Tech 2Rae Sievers ................................................ Tax Tech LdPaula Snelson ........................................... Tax Tech Ld

* September promotion.

Clerk’s Financial Reporting Receives RecognitionFrom November 9 press release

The Pinellas County Clerk’s Office was once again recognized by the Govern-ment Finance Officers Association (GFOA) with two national awards in government financial reporting.

For the 36th consecutive year, the Clerk’s Comprehensive Annual Financial Report (CAFR) received the prestigious Certificate of Achieve-ment for Excellence in Financial Reporting.

The Clerk’s Popular Annual Financial Report (PAFR), known as the Citizens’ Guide to County Finances,

also received the association's award for Outstanding Achievement in Popular Annual Financial Reporting for the 11th consecutive year.

“It’s a great source of pride and honor to be recognized, year after year, for the hard work and commitment our employees dedicate towards these important financial reports,” said Ken Burke, Pinellas County Clerk of the Circuit Court and Comptroller. “Both re-ports provide citizens valuable insights regarding the County’s financial health, along with highlights and information on County government.”

The PAFR is a brief synopsis of the County’s financial health presented in a user friendly manner. The CAFR is a much more in-depth report that includes all County financial informa-tion such as statements, assets, rev-enues, expenses and tax collections. Both publications contain financial information for the County's 2015-2016 fiscal year, which ran from October 1, 2015 to September 30, 2016 and can be found on the Clerk’s website www.mypinellasclerk.org.

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Have You Completed Your Biometric Screening and Health Survey?Getting an annual screening and bloodwork provides many valuable health benefits. Plus you save $500 on your health insurance premium in 2018 if you com-plete the screening and survey by December 31, 2017.

→ Learn how to complete the necessary steps.

→ View a list of convenience care clinics where you can get a biometric screening done.

→ Find out what your biometric numbers mean.

Don’t delay!

Vote for Your EAC Representative Look for Your Email Ballot on Nov. 27th

On Monday, November 27, classified employees who work in the groups listed will receive an email ballot to vote for their Employees’ Advisory Council (EAC) Representative. Ballots must be returned by December 8.

The email ballot will be sent from Employee Communications via Survey Monkey. BTS staff has enabled settings so that the mes-sage should not get caught in your spam filter. Please look for it!

If you do not receive a ballot by the close of business on Novem-ber 27 or if you would prefer a paper ballot, please contact Human Resources at 464-3506 or by email at employee.relations@pinellascounty.org.

Each year, half of the Employees’ Advisory Council (EAC) Representa-tives positions are up for election. If your department is not listed below, your Rep’s election will be next year. If you are eligible, please vote!

BCC Group 8 - Classified employees at Airport, Building Services, Conven-tion & Visitors Bureau, Development Review Services, Economic Develop-ment, Marketing & Communications, Planning, Purchasing, Risk Management

Nominees: Clare McGrane Frankie Piland

Clerk North - Classified employees at Finance, Payroll, Accounting, Inspec-tor General, Administration, North County Branch, Recording Services, Official Records, Printing & Mail Services, Civil Court Records, and Probate Court Records

Nominees: Ashley Skubal Leena Delli Paoli

Please note that elections will not be held in the following areas:

BCC Group 1 – Solid Waste, Utilities Maintenance, Mosquito Control and Vegetation Manage-ment

Congratulations to Mario Rugghia who wins unopposed.

BCC Group 2 – Real Estate Management

Congratulations to Randy Rose who wins unopposed.

BCC Group 6 – Utilities Customer Service and Office of Management and Budget

Congratulations to Doris McHugh who wins unopposed.

Property Appraiser’s Office – All classified employees at the Property Appraiser’s Office

Congratulations to Jackie Warr who wins unopposed.

Supervisor of Elections – All classified employees at Supervisor of Elections

Congratulations to Linda Cahill who wins unopposed.

EAC Representa-tives are elected to two-year terms by their fellow employees and meet monthly to address important work-place issues, such as:

Serving in an advisory capacity to the Pinellas County Personnel Board and the Director of Human Resources concerning personnel matters, poli-cies, rules, and regulations affecting employees

Developing and recommending ideas related to working conditions, morale, public image, efficiency, employee safety and employee benefit programs

Appointing two members of the Personnel Board

Visit www.pinellascounty.org/hr/eac to learn more about the EAC, or contact Lisa Arispe, EAC Chair, at 464-4862 or by email at larispe@pinellascounty.org.

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15 YEARS Maurisa Bussy .................................Tax Collector’s OfficeDaniel Monefeldt............................Tax Collector’s OfficePaula Nelson ................... Business Technology ServicesDebra Swetay ..................................Tax Collector’s Office

10 YEARSJodi Fox .....................................Clerk of the Circuit Court

5 YEARSMichael Baker ...............................................Public WorksMichael Brown ........... Parks & Conservation ResourcesGregory Cutrone ...........................................Public WorksRahma Harji ..................................................Public WorksKevin Hayes ..........................Property Appraiser’s OfficeJoseph Lauro ............................Clerk of the Circuit CourtKelsey Lowe .....................................Tax Collector’s OfficeMichael Masi .................................................Public WorksLynda Morrill ......................Business Technolgy ServicesRobert Pamic ......................................................... UtilitiesRae Sievers .......................................Tax Collector’s OfficeMargarita Valladares Avila .....Clerk of the Circuit Court

3 YEARSRonald Acoff ............................ Real Estate ManagementMichael Adkinson ...... Parks & Conservation ResourcesBrett Allmond ..........................Clerk of the Circuit CourtJames Bernard ..............................................Public WorksRobert D’Angelo ..................... Real Estate ManagementAlexander Fugate .................................................. UtilitiesJaime Ganote .................. Business Technology ServicesKimberly Greenleaf ................... BCC Commission OfficeBradley Lawson .....................................Building ServicesCassandre Moreau ..................Clerk of the Circuit CourtKeith Murray .................... Safety & Emergency ServicesJoseph Thames, Jr. ........................................Public WorksBradley Weeks ......................................................... AirportSteven Wrobel ......................... Real Estate Management

SERVICE ANNIVERSARIES

30 YEARS Unavailable for Photo30 Years Joanne Froggatt Clerk of the Circuit Court

Rufus Jones Airport

Diana Persha Human Services

20 YEARS

James CalderReal Estate Management James Russell

Business Technology Services

Sherry Staley, Tax Collector’s Office Velma Williams, Tax Collector’s Office

Greta FinneyBusiness Technology Services

The Florida Botanical Gardens Foundation is seeking volunteers to staff multiple positions and shifts during the annual Holiday Lights in the Gardens event from Friday, Nov. 24 through Sunday, Dec. 31. Volunteers can choose one or more shifts that run nightly from 5:00 to 9:15 p.m.

More than 450 volunteers are needed as entertainers, greeters and gift cart attendants.

For more information and to volunteer, contact the Florida Botanical Gardens Foundation at flbgfoundation@gmail.com, or call (727) 582-2247.

This year’s Holiday Lights in the Gardens will be held from Friday, Nov. 24 through Sunday, Dec. 31, every evening from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. A donation of $4 per person ages 13 and over is sug-gested, with all pro-ceeds going to fund the maintenance and upkeep of the Gardens year-round.

Holiday Lights in the Gardens

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RetiRements

OveR 41 YeaRs OveR 38 YeaRs

REPCO’s December 11 meeting will be the Holiday Lunch/Dinner. It will start at 1:00 p.m. at the Roosterfish Restauant, 776 Missouri Ave, Largo. If you have questions, contact Rudy Garcia at (813) 855-3466 or rdgarcia@verizon.net.

You don’t have to be a Pinellas County retiree to attend. Current employees and family members are also welcome.

REPCO NewsRetirees Unavailable for Photo

27+ Years Roy Gonzales, Tree Trimmer, Public Works

17 Years Anne Theriault, Court Records Specialist 2, Clerk of the Circuit Court

OveR 32 YeaRs 29 YeaRs

Christy AldermanDirector, Valuation Analysis

& SupportProperty Appraiser’s Office

James DulaneySection Manager 3Plant Operations

Utilities

Diana Caldwell GIS Cadastralist 1

Property Appraiser’s Office

Rick PrittTrades/Field Services Worker

Public Works

County Office Recycling: What’s Changing in 2018?Background

The County’s garbage service providers also offer recycling collection. Therefore, beginning in January 2018 these providers will also service the recycling containers at County buildings.

Not Changing … How you recycle!

Continue to fill your deskside and copy room paper recycling bins and your breakroom/common area container recycling bins. The janitorial service will still transfer these recyclables to the exterior containers to be collected by the contractor.

Changing … What you recycle!

Flattened cardboard can now be recycled, as well as mixed paper, aluminum, glass and metal containers.

• Clearwater buildings – keep cardboard separate

• All other buildings – co-mingle cardboard with other recyclables

What to Recycle?Catherine EichnerSolid Waste464-7518

Need Service or a Pick-Up?Holly ConnerReal Estate Management463-3218

CONTACTS

Need document destruction (shredding) services?• Handle through Clerk of Courts Records Management

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Board of County Commissioners

Convention & Visitors BureauTracey Nix ............................................Bus Asst Spec 1

County Administration Sandra Shields ................................... Exec Admin Sec

Development Review ServicesJude Reazin ..................................... Code Enf Div Mgr

Marketing & CommunicationsEdward Griswold ............................... Brdcst Eng Spec

Parks & Conservation ResourcesBryan Rodriguez Gonzalez ...................... Park Rngr 1Douglas Soden .............................................Craftwkr 1Benjamin Wiley ........................................Mail Courier

Public WorksMohammad Bawany ............. Proj Coord Proj MgmtRobert Chmura ........................................Traf Sig TechMichael O’Connor.......................................Eng Spec 1Kevin Ware ..........................................Eng Svcs Tech 2

UtilitiesDavid Adams ................................. Hydrogeology MgrBrian Barnes ........................... Wtr/Wstwtr Plt Oper 1Jarrell Carter ..........................................Util Maint WkrCody Chamburs ....................................Util Maint WkrMark Ferguson ......................................Util Maint WkrRalph Frye ..................................................... Trne Uf AIsaiah Senecal ..................................Util Maint Spec 2

Welcome Aboard!

County Attorney’s OfficerJacina Haston ......................................... Asst Co Atty 2

New employees listed are for October 2017.

Clerk of the Circuit CourtPeter Carey ................................................Fis Rec SpecDiane Neville .........................................Fin Opns Tech

Tax Collector’s OfficeTanika Allen ......................................... Cust Svc Tech 1Margaret Andriuli ............................... Cust Svc Tech 1Marquis Cromartie ............................. Cust Svc Tech 1Mark Dykstra ....................................... Cust Svc Tech 1Stephen Elder ...................................... Cust Svc Tech 1Riana Giannico ................................... Cust Svc Tech 1Joshua Jones ........................................ Cust Svc Tech 1Kimberly Karantonis .......................... Cust Svc Tech 1Bryan Peterson ...................................... Cust Svc TechAngela Rivera Barboza ...................... Cust Svc Tech 1Sean Rodgers....................................... Cust Svc Tech 1

Pasquale Razzano ............................ PAO Appraiser 2

Human ResourcesTerri Wallace ...................................................... HR Mgr

Property Appraiser's Office

New Employee Orientation, Oct. 9

New Employee Orientation, Oct. 23

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Pets of the Month

Adopt one or both of these beauties, fully vaccinated, spayed, microchipped and more from Pinellas County Animal Services at 12450 Ulmerton Road in Largo. View more adoptables at www.pinellascounty.org/animalservices/ Adoption_Center.htm.

THE RECORD KEEPER

When sending a box or file to the records center through interoffice mail, please be sure to securely attach an interoffice address/delivery label to the outside of the package. If the address label detaches during transit, it will be difficult for the couriers to determine where the box or file should be delivered, and we want to make sure your items arrive at the records center.

If you have any questions about sending items to the records center, please contact Records Management at (727) 464-5555.

Sending Boxes or Files to the Records Center

Have you seen the latest Two-Minute Tuesday videos?

Recent videos include great information on the upcoming Annual Enrollment. View them here.

Captain Jack7-month-old male

ARRR!! Just give this boy an eye patch and ye could call him by name—Captain Jack. This very handsome boy came to Pinellas County Animal Services as a stray with a seriously

injured eye. Now he is ready to be a true pirate and steal your heart. Not only is Captain Jack a lover but he adores playing. If you are looking for a wonderful boy, Captain Jack is ready to weigh anchor and hoist the mizzen to take over his new home and family!

Petty7-year-old mixed breed, male

He arrived “stray,” but performs tricks for treats.He'll sit, shake a paw ... he'll speak on-command!He's Petty (as in Tom), and he's one cool dude.

From the kennel he sings, “Don't do me like that.”

The waiting is the hardest part, so come in and see. This Gator shouldn't have to live like a refugee.

This easy-going dude is named in honor of Gainesville's favorite son, Tom Petty. He knows sit, fetch and loves to talk. He walks great on a leash, too!

St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport (PIE) teamed up with Allegiant Air and the Hispanic Outreach Centers to host a food/supply drive at the airport in October. They were delighted to see so many citizens and employees contribute.

“Many families who evacuate from Puerto Rico to Pinellas will be welcomed and aided, thanks to our gen-erous community,” said Tom Jewsbury, Airport Director.

An entire Salvation Army truck was filled with donations.

Thanks to Our Generous Community

Volunteers from Pinellas County, the Airport, Hispanic Outreach Centers and Allegiant Air at the October 24 food/supply drive for Hurricane Maria victims in Puerto Rico.

Photo courtesy of Pinellas County Marketing & Communications Department.

Contributed by Pinellas County Animal Services

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Once again the holiday season is here. It’s also the busiest shopping time of the year. Whether you’re finishing up your shopping or just getting started, Pinellas County Consumer Protection offers these tips to help save you time and money.

Plan Ahead: Whether you’re grocery shopping for a big meal or gift shopping, be sure to make a list. Without a list you’re more likely to impulse buy and blow your budget. Before heading to the store know who or what you’re shopping for and the amount you plan to spend.

Shop Securely: Con artists are everywhere, so be on guard and protect your payment information. Use cash or credit cards for payment. Credit cards typically offer better protection against fraudulent charges. Be sure to monitor your financial statements and accounts. Keep your receipts should you need to make a return or dispute a charge.

Best Deal: Just because an item is on sale doesn’t mean it’s the best or lowest price. Be sure to shop around and comparison shop, especially for big ticket items. If shortly after you buy an item it goes on sale, most stores will make a price adjustment.

For more shopping tips or to file a complaint, contact Pinellas County Consumer Protection at (727) 464-6200 or visit www.pinellascounty.org/consumer/tips.htm.

Consumer Corner

Connie Consumer

Create Sustainable SolutionsVision • Innovation • Collaboration

Holiday Shopping Tips

Pinellas County recycled 82% of materials in 2016.

For more Solutions for Your Life, click image.

Want to help Florida reach its 75% recycling goal by 2020? Try these holidays tips:

→ Send electronic holiday cards instead ofpaper.

→ Buy a potted Christmas tree. Replantit or turn it into mulch for your yard.

→ Use recycled wrapping paper orbuy wrapping paper made withrecycled paper.

→ Reuse paper bags or decorateyour own with old fabrics/materialsaround your home.

→ Try using cloth ribbons that can bewashed and reused.

And check out Pinellas County’s A-Z Recycling and Disposal Guide.

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Employee and family news including kudos, weddings, births, graduations, memorials, and classified ads. Send your news to employee.communications@pinellascounty.org or call 464-5098.

Running The People’s Marathon

The 42nd iteration of the Marine Corps Marathon — better known as “The People’s Marathon” — couldn’t have kicked off on a more beautiful day than the one that greeted runners from all 50 states and multiple countries on Sunday, October 22nd.

It was clear skies and cool tempera-tures in the nation’s capital as more than 30,000 runners convened on the metropolitan area of Washington, DC to take on one of the largest and most emotional marathons in the world. When The Marine Corps Marathon (MCM) was created in 1976 in part as away to drum up interest in the mili-tary after the Vietnam War, only 1,018people ran the course. The event hasgrown since and the focus is not somuch on recruiting, though that is partof it.

This year, a pair of our very own Pinellas County Utilities Department staff members Joe Graham and Georges Gonzalez, an Air Force Veteran, were among the runners se-lected through the MCM Lottery to par-ticipate. The Marine Corps Marathon is very special and it’s an honor

to be selected.

This is Georges’ 4th consecutive MCM. Georges is an avid runner. He has run 37 marathons throughout the U.S. and the world, but this is one of Georges’ favorite marathons. “It is a very emotional marathon,” Georges explains. The marathon pays homage to our fallen heroes at a place called The Blue Mile, which contains pictures of military members that have paid the ultimate price while in combat.

Joe began running approximately two years ago. He started on a treadmill and was soon hooked. A few months later he registered for his first 5K race and moved to running outside. During his training runs he found a running group. Joe says, “I really look forward [to] my group runs together with my friends; nothing is as good at burning off the stress of the day as running.”

A few months later and through intensive training, Joe ran his first marathon. Joe explains it best when he says, “The sense of accomplish-ment you feel crossing the finish line cannot be compared to anything else.”

Contributed by Georges Gonzalez, Utilities Customer Service Division

The 42nd Marine Corps Marathon was the first time Joe has run the marathon. Joe has run five marathons altogether.

Running is part of both Joe and Georges’ life. Between them, they have shed over 145 pounds and running helps maintain weight loss, helps keep stress levels in check and, frankly it is fun. As both Georges and Joe will tell you, prior to running they both were on multiple medicines. Since both started running and losing weight, neither of them takes medications any longer and they plan to keep it that way. It takes dedication and time to train for a marathon. Georges and Joe have shown that anything is possible when one puts their mind to it.

Classified AdsFor Sale: 55 inch Plasma Smart TV, 5-years-old and in EXCELLENT condi-tion wtih remote and manual. Sellingto make room for the new one. $400.Email mariakelly102@cox.net for photosor to make arrangements to see it.

FREE to a good home: Chloey and Zoey, two sweet girls needing a home together. Good with children. They get along well with small dogs; They have only been around small dogs so far. The cats are around 5-years-old and have been together since originally adopted. Chloe is the grey girl, super affectionate and sweet, will love on you for hours if you let her. Zoey is the white cat with grey tail. She is more independent and takes some time to come around. If interested please call or text:Josh at (727) 485-6158Victoria at (201) 492-8387

Joe Graham and Georges Gonzalez

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Happy Halloween from the ghouls, goblins and ghosts of Ambulance Billing and Financial Services!

Gone but not ForgottenThe Pen is saddened to report the passing of the following retirees:

Charles Graves, 64, passed away October 20, 2017. He retired from Utilities in 2010 as a Field Services Supervisor. He is survived by his wife, Donna Graves, formerly of Risk Management. Arrangements were handled by Dobies Funeral Home in Tarpon Springs.

Thomas Gray, passed away November 3, 2017. He retired from the Office of the Pinellas County Tax Collector in 2000.

June Leavitt, passed away October 27, 2017. She retired from EMS in 2002.

Linda Manninen, passed away October 27, 2017. She retired from the Tax Collector’s Office in 2010.

Lewis Stephens, Jr., 71, passed away November 1, 2017. He retired in 2012 as a Plant Operator at the STAR

Center, Real Es-tate Management. He leaves his wife, Dolores, two sons, Keith and Lewis, and one daughter, Tanika.

Arrangement were by Creal Funeral Home. His obituary can still be found online.

On September 23, 2017, Yvonne Rayford (Clerk) went to Atlanta, GA to celebrate the group Audio Source Live’s first album release party. Her daughter. Kristina, is a member of the group. The album release party was a success and the event sold out with standing room only. The group also found out that their song “Will I Ever” was #2 on the UK charts. They are doing this all on their own, writing the songs, the music and producing.

From left to right, Donovan (Groov), Danielle (DannyRey) and Kristina (KrisLove)

GraduationOn 11/11/2017, Hazel Lane and Sandy Sandmeyer, both from Human Services, graduated from the Christian Life School of Theology at the Countryside Christian Church campus. Hazel earned a Doctor-ate of Sacred Studies after nearly 7 years of study. She will continue her studies in order to obtain her Doctorate of Theol-ogy next year. Sandy earned a Doctorate of Theology after over 7 years of study. She plans to seek training in order to be-come a certified Life Coach next year.

Charles Richard “Dick” Short, 82, passed away October 8, 2017. He retired in 2003 as Chief Deputy Director of the Clerk’s Finance Divi-sion. He is father of Chris Short of the Clerk’s Office. He also leaves his wife, Joan, son Stephen, a brother, a sister-in-law, and many cousins, nieces and nephews. His obituary can still be found online.

James Whitty, passed away October 14, 2017. He retired from Human Services September 2017 with over 27 years of service. He was a Case Manager. He leaves his wife, family, three nephews and two nieces. Funeral arrangements in Dublin, Ireland.