Broken Arrow City Council
Meeting of: 08-04-15
To: Mayor and City Council
From: Office of the City Attorney
Title:
title
Consideration, discussion, possible approval of and authorization to execute an Employment Agreement between the City of Broken Arrow, Oklahoma and Michael L. Spurgeon
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Background:
On July 21, 2015, the City Council directed the City Attorney to draft an Employment Agreement with Michael L. Spurgeon to serve as the next City Manager. Mr. Spurgeon currently serves as Director of Administration for the City of St. Charles, Missouri. His previous positions include Township Land Use Coordinator for Easthampton Township, Burlington County, New Jersey; Acting Township Manager for Easthampton Township, Burlington County, New Jersey; and City Administrator/Manager for Miami, Oklahoma.
The attached Agreement between the City and Mr. Spurgeon is consistent with those utilized by other municipalities within the State of Oklahoma. It provides for the appointment of Mr. Spurgeon as the City Manager for a period of three years at an annual salary of $166,000.00. The Agreement provides for transportation and technology allowances, a bank of two weeks sick and vacation leave, payment of relocation expenses, a relocation preparation trip, a transitional living allowance, and retirement contributions of 12%. It also contains a nine (9) month severance package for two years. The severance package is reduced to seven (7) months in the third year. The Agreement provides for a start date of September 21, 2015, a preliminary review after six (6) months and annual reviews thereafter.
As mentioned above, the proposed term of this contract is three (3) years. Subsequent years’ salary and benefits would obviously be subject to annual appropriation. Due to the nature of Mr. Spurgeon’s relocation and his excellent credentials, Staff has no problem recommending the three (3) year term. Any severance payments would be subject to the availability of unencumbered funds.
Staff believes that the attached Agreement is reflective of others in the industry. It is presented for the Council’s consideration. Mr. Spurgeon has indicated that the terms contained within the Agreement are satisfactory. Staff recommends that the Council approve the Agreement and authorize its execution.
Cost: $166,000.00 in salary, plus costs of relocation, allowance and benefits
Prepared By: Beth Anne Wilkening, City Attorney
Reviewed By: Human Resources Department
Assistant City Manager
Approved By: Russell M. Gale, Acting City Manager
Attachments: Employment Agreement between Michael L. Spurgeon and the City of Broken Arrow, a municipal corporation
Recommendation:
Approve the Employment Agreement with Michael L. Spurgeon and authorize its execution.