HomeMy WebLinkAboutPR 19625: AGREEMENT FOR INDEPENDENT PROFESSIONAL SERVICES WITH ROSIE VELA, TEMP SERVICES FOR THE CITY'S FINANCE DEPARTMENT DERRICK FREEMAN,MAYOR
RAYMOND SCOTT,JR,MAYOR PRO TEM i BRIAN MCDOUGAL
CITY MANAGER
COUNCIL MEMBERS: City of SHERRI BELLARD,TMRC
TIFFANY HAMILTON '%%//,/i10, CITY SECRETARY
MORRIS ALBRIGHT
KEITH RICHARD0/ 1 I"!h t/Z�� VALECIA TIZENO
WILLIE"BAE" LEWIS, JR. CITY ATTORNEY
CHARLOTTE MOSES . (L
KAPRINA RICHARDSON FRANK
Date: December 6, 2016
To: Mayor and Council
From: Brian McDougal, City Manager
RE: Rosie Vela's Contract
Nature of the request:
On January 18, 2017, the contract for Mr. Dale will expire and will not be renewed by Mr. Dale.
This request is for approval of a four (4) month term contract with Ms. Vela as a contractor for
Interim Finance Director,with an option to renew for one additional year.
Staff Analysis, Considerations:
Ms. Vela has 37+ years of accounting experience with 30+ years of it in municipal accounting
(see attached resume). She has also, guided the finance departments in 7 cities (see attached
resume). She and the finance department will be working to finish our 2016 Annual Audit by
March 31, 2017 on time. While that is occurring, she and the staff will have to continue to
work with our forensic audit staff on the first departments that were requested in the citizen
petition, and the development of staffing within the Finance and Accounting Department for
secession.
Recommendation:
The enclosed contract for Ms. Vela is recommended. The contract is for four (4)months, with an
option to renew for one additional year. The hourly rate will be $50 per hour with a maximum of 40
hours per week, with overtime only being approved by the City Manager.
Budget Consideration:
Funds for this position will be from the salary budgeted in the Finance Department for the Finance
Director's salary.
P.O BOX 1089 PORT ARTHUR, TEXAS 77641-1089 •409/983-8101 •www.portarthur.net
P.R. NO. 19625
jnp 10/21/16
RESOLUTION NO. _
A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING A N AGREEMENT FOR
INDEPENDENT PROFESSIONAL SERVICES BETWEEN THE CITY
OF PORT ARTHUR AND ROSIE VELA, CPA, TO SERVE AS THE
INTERIM FINANCE DIRECTOR FOR THE CITY'S FINANCE
DEPARTMENT
WHEREAS, there will be a vacancy for the Finance Director position of City on January
18,2017; and
WHEREAS, the City in order to effectively continue City Finance projects during the
process to fill the referenced vacancy recommends contracting with Ms. Rosie Vela, as
Interim Finance Director; and
WHEREAS, the City Council deems Ms. Vela to possess the necessary professional,
technical, and institutional knowledge, as well as required professional licensure, to ensure the
effective execution of City projects to its citizens at a rate of $50.00/hour and shall not exceed
40 hours per week without prior approval of the City Manager.
NOW THEREFORE,BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF PORT ARTHUR:
Section 1. That the facts and opinions in the preamble are true and correct.
Section 2. That the City Manager is hereby authorized to execute a four (4)
month Agreement with Rosie Vela, to serve as Interim Finance Director effective February 1,
2017, with an option to renew for an additional year, in substantially the same form as the
attached Exhibit "A".
Section 3. That a copy of the caption of this Resolution shall be spread upon the
Minutes of the City Council.
READ,ADOPTED,AND APPROVED,this day of ,2016 AD,
at a Regular Meeting of the City Council of the City of Port Arthur, Texas by the following
vote: AYES:
P.R. N O. 19625
Jnp 10/21/16
Page 2
Mayor:
Councilmembers:
NOES:
Derrick Freeman, Mayor
ATTEST:
Sherri Bellard, City Secretary
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
\(CLQ
Valecia R. iz , City Attorney
APPROVED FOR ADMINISTRATION:
Brian McDougal, City Manager
EXHIBIT " A"
AGREEMENT FOR INDEPENDENT PROFESSIONAL SERVICES
That this Agreement is made between the City of Port Arthur, Texas hereinafter
referred to as "City" and Rosie Vela, Interim Finance Director, hereinafter referred
to as the "Contractor."
I. DURATION AND TERMINATION
That this Agreement shall be for a four (4) month period beginning February 1,
2017 and shall remain in effect until May 31, 2017, with an option to renew for one
additional year. Either party may terminate this Agreement upon thirty (30) days written
notice. It is understood and agreed that if Contractor is incapable of performing the
services described herein; all rights to further compensation under this Agreement are to
be invalid.
II. PROFESSIONAL SERVICES TO BE PERFORMED
Contractor shall perform the duties of Finance Director. The Contractor shall comply
with the ethical and professional code of the profession and the policies of the City of
Port Arthur (see attached job description).
III. COMPENSATION
Compensation shall be at $50.00 per hour. Appropriate work related expenses,
(training, conferences, etc), computer and facility access, as necessary for the effective
performance of the required job duties, may be provided and/or reimbursed as
determined appropriate by the City Manager. The Contractor shall safeguard all
records, and maintain confidentiality of records and information encountered in the
course and scope of his job duties. The hours of work shall be mutually agreed upon
by the City Manager of the City of Port Arthur and Rosie Vela, Finance Director, and
shall not exceed 40 hours per week unless approved by the City Manager. Ms. Vela will
be considered an independent contractor for the City.
IV. OTHER BENEFITS
Housing for work days and mileage at IRA rates. That all benefits resultant from
this contract are delineated herein, and no other benefits promised by any City
officer shall be binding on the City. Although, Ms. Vela will not be compensated for
vacation, sick leave and holidays, she will be allowed to take time off from time-to-time
as approved by the City Manager.
V. INDEMNITY
It is understood and agreed that Contractor is independent contractor. The CITY
hereby agrees to indemnify CONTRACTOR, to the extent permitted by law or the extent
to which such coverage is available to CITY employees and officials, against any
liability, claim, cause of action, damage, personal injury or death rising out of or in
connection with the services performed or to be performed by CONTRACTOR pursuant
to this Agreement when CONTRACTOR is performing duties in the scope of his duties
with the City of Port Arthur.
VI. PROFESSIONAL LIABILITY INSURANCE
The City will provide legal services or pay an judgment rendered against Contractor
for any suit or claim arising out of the performance of the Contractor's duties as
outlined herein unless it is determined that said performance was the result of
malfeasance or negligence to the extent of the coverage by TMLIRP, and only in the course
and scope of his duties with the City of Port Arthur.
VII. NON DISCRI MINATION
The Contractor hereby agrees that no person shall, on the grounds of race, creed,
color, handicap, national origin, sex, political affiliation, or beliefs, be excluded from, be
denied the benefits of, or be otherwise subjected to discrimination as regards to any
services or activity under this contract; and hereby gives assurance the Contractor will
immediately take any measure necessary to effectuate Agreement.
SIGNED AND AG REED TO on the day of ,2016.
CONTRACTOR
Rosie Vela
CITY OF PORT ARTHUR
Brian McDougal,City Manager
s.pr19022_exhibit
CITY OF PORT ARTHUR
JOB TITLE: Finance Director EXEMPT: Yes
REPORTS TO: City Manager NON-EXEMPT:
DEPARTMENT: Finance DIVISION: Finance
SALARY RANGE:
DEFINITION
To plan, organize and direct the activities of the Finance Department including accounting, tax,
purchasing, cash management, and central cashiering functions; to supervise Department staff; to
coordinate activities with other departments' and to provide highly complex staff assistance to the
Assistant City Manager, City Manager and City Council.
SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED
Receives administrative direction from an Assistant City Manager.
Exercises direct and indirect supervision over professional, technical, and clerical staff.
EXAMPLES OF IMPORTANT RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES -
Essential and other important duties and responsibilities may include, but are not limited to, the
following:
Develop, plan, implement and administer Department goals and objectives as well as
policies and procedures necessary to provide financial services; approve new or modified
programs, systems, policies and procedures.
Direct the development and administration of the Department's budget; direct monitor
and approve expenditures; make mid-year corrections.
Coordinate Department activities with those of other departments and outside agencies
and organizations; provide staff assistance to the City Manager and City Council; prepare
and present staff reports and other necessary correspondence.
Recommend appointment of, train. motivate and evaluate staff; establish and monitor
employee performance objectives; prepare and present employee performance reviews;
provide or coordinate staff training; work with employees to correct deficiencies;
s
implement discipline procedures; recommend employee termination's; approve time cards
and expense reports.
Participate in planning, directing and reviewing of financial activities of the City
including budget planning , financial policy determination, economic forecasting,
financial reporting. audit compliance, and cash management and investments.
Prepare financial and administrative reports and resolutions for presentation to the City
Council.
Maintain mental capacity which allows the capabilities to:
• exercise sound judgment and rational thinking under stressful circumstances
• evaluate various options and alternatives and choose an appropriate and
reasonable course of action
• prepare complex policies and recommendations
• effectively supervise personnel
• operate effectively in an economically and culturally diverse environment
Maintain physical condition which will allow the capability to perform the following:
• running, walking, crawling, or standing for extended periods of time
• climbing stairs or ladders
• moving loads of approximately 25 - 50 lbs.
Maintain effective audio-visual discrimination and perception for:
• making observations
• reading and writing
• operating necessary and assigned equipment
• communicating with others
OTHER IMPORTAND RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES:
Represent the City before citizens and elected officials on financial and administrative
matters of the City.
Direct the implementation and control of the City's annual operating and capital budgets.
Review and evaluate administrative and financial internal control systems and procedures
of the Department and the City.
Assist in the preparation of the annual operating and capital improvement budget;
forecast City revenues, expenditures and year-end balances.
A
Provide financial management support and assistance to City departments.
Direct the preparation of financial reports as required by law; prepare various financial
reports and analyses requested by the City Manager and City Council.
Coordinate the annual independent audit of the City's financial records as required by
law.
Meet an confer with bankers, financial advisors, and legal counsel on matters related to
the planning and management of City funds.
Oversee the management of the City's Fireman's Relief and Retirement Fund.
Perform related duties as assigned.
QUALIFICATIONS
Knowledge of:
Modern and highly complex principles and practices of financial administration.
particularly in the areas of accounting, budgeting, and cash management.
Principles of personnel administration, supervision and training.
Modern office practices. procedures, methods, and equipment.
Laws regulating the financial administration of City government.
Budget preparation, program analyses, and revenue forecasting.
Applicable purchasing laws, rules, regulations,policies and procedures.
Advanced methods and practices of accounting and financial reporting.
Ability to :
Develop and install sound accounting and related financial systems and procedures.
Communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
Prepare and analyze complex financial statements, reports, analyses, and correspondence.
Interpret applicable laws, rules, and regulations.
Select, supervise, train and evaluate professional, technical and clerical staff.
Maintain effective working relationships with members of the financial and business
communities, staff, committee members, public officials, and the general public.
Experience and Training Guidelines:
Any Combination of experience and training that would likely provide the required
knowledge and abilities is qualifying. A typical way would be:
Experience:
Eight years of increasingly responsible experience in accounting and financial
work including significant administrative and personnel management
responsibilities.
Training:
Equivalent to a Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with
major course work in accounting, finance, business administration or related field.
A Master's degree or CPA certificate is desirable.
License or Certificate
Possession of, or ability to obtain, an appropriate Texas driver's license.
ROSIE G. VELA, CPA, CGFO
6125 Queen Jane Street
Corpus Christi TX 78414
512-216-7296
October 2015
EDUCATION: Master of Business Administration
Corpus Christi State University —August 1980
(Now Texas A & M University — Corpus Christi)
Emphasis in Finance and Management
Bachelor of Business Administration
Corpus Christi State University —August 1979
Major —Accounting
Graduated Magna cum Laude
PROFESSIONAL Certified Public Accountant, May 1982
CERTIFICATIONS: Certified Government Finance Officer, Nov. 1988
EXPERIENCE:
May 2014 — May 2015 Finance Director, City of Ingleside Texas
As Finance Director, I am responsible for the interim and annual financial
reporting for the City; the annual audit of the City's books; the budgeting and tax
assessment process; the accounts payable and payroll functions; the investment
of the City's funds; managing the City's debt; serving as liaison with the City's
financial advisors, underwriters and bond attorneys; and other financial
responsibilities.
October 2012 — May 2014 Controller, Central Health, Austin Texas
As controller, I managed the payroll, accounts payable, budgeting, accounting,
and financial reporting functions, as well as coordinated the annual audit. In
addition, the Finance Department manages recording and reporting
Intergovernmental Transfers through the Health and Human Services
Commission. Central Health is a taxing entity which collects property taxes in
Travis County and uses those funds to provide healthcare for the uninsured
through contracts with medical providers.
March 2009 — May 2012 Self Employed Consultant
As a consultant, I provided Interim services to cities when they had a vacancy in
the Director of Finance position. Cities served include Cedar Park, Buda,
Beeville, Granite Shoals, Windcrest, Copperas Cove and Town of Addison.
Engagements were for limited time periods, usually three to six months. During
this time, I assisted in the recruiting process and provided interim financial
statements and investment reports, as well as overseeing the day-to-day financial
operations.
Sept. 2006 — Sept. 2008 Director of Finance, City of San Marcos Texas
As Director of Finance, I was responsible for the Purchasing, Accounting,
Information Services and Utility Business Office Divisions. The Department was
responsible for preparing and presenting the annual budget of over $140 million;
preparation of interim and annual financial reports; preparation of the annual
Comprehensive Annual Financial Report; coordinating Annual and Internal Audits
for the City; managing debt issuance and continuing disclosure; payroll for over
500 employees; accounts payable for all vendors of the City; procurement of all
goods and services for the City; and customer service and collection of utility
payments for Water and Electric Utilities.
Sept. 1996 — Sept. 2006 Director of Finance, City of Richardson, Texas
As Director of Finance, I was responsible for various divisions including
Accounting, Purchasing, Fleet and Materials Management, Municipal Court, Utility
Customer Service, Tax and Administration. I was responsible for a department of
84 individuals with a budget of$8 million.
Significant accomplishments:
Bond rating upgrades in both revenue bonds and General Obligation
bonds
From Baa-1 to Al in Revenue Bonds (Moody's) and from A to AA-
(S&P)
From Aa to Aal in General Obligation bonds (Moody's) and
From AA to AA+ in General Obligation bonds (S&P)
Dec. 1990 —Aug. 1996 Director of Finance, City of Corpus Christi, Texas
As Director of Finance, I was responsible for the daily operations of a department
of 133 people comprised of various divisions, which included Accounting, Cash
Management, Central Cashiering, Federal Grants, Accounts Payable, Payroll, and
the Utilities Business Office.
As Director of Finance, I was also responsible for performing long-range
projections on the City's ability to finance debt for long-term capital projects;
served as liaison to the City's financial advisors, bond attorneys, and
underwriters; and coordinated presentations to the City's rating agencies for bond
sales. During the years that I served as Finance Director, the City received the
Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Management from the
Government Finance Officers Association.
Jan. 1990 — Dec. 1990 Director of Management and Budget, City of
Corpus Christi, Texas
As Director of Management and Budget, I directed a staff of twelve people in coordinating the
preparation and publication of a $242 million budget. This involved compiling information for
approximately thirty-five departments and twenty funds into a comprehensive financial and planning
document. During this year, the Government Finance Officers Association awarded the Distinguished
Budget Award to the City.
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Sept. 1985 — Jan. 1990 Chief Accountant, Assistant Director of Finance,
City of Corpus Christi, Texas
In this position, I supervised the Central Cashiering, Collections, Cash Management Section,
Accounting Division, which consisted of Payroll, Accounts Payable, Federal Grants, and General
Accounting. As Chief Accountant, I directed a staff of seven accountants in recording the City's
financial transactions, generating timely and correct interim financial reports, and preparing and
publishing the City's audited Comprehensive Annual Financial Report.
May 1984— Sept. 1985 Director of Accounting, Spohn Hospital, Corpus
Christi, Texas
In this capacity, I directed a staff of twelve people in generating monthly and
annual financial statements; processing accounts payable for a 500-bed hospital;
recording all payroll transactions and generating payroll checks for over 1,700
employees; investing the hospital's temporarily idle cash; processing all bank
deposits; accounting for all fixed assets and capital improvement projects; and
maintaining records for the hospital's four subsidiary corporations.
May 1983 — May 1984 Internal Auditor, Spohn Hospital, Corpus Christi,
Texas
In this capacity, with the help of an assistant, I audited the hospital's cash collection procedures, petty
cash funds, patient charge documentation, and reviewed other operations in various departments of
the hospital.
Dec. 1980—May 1983 Auditor, Peat Marwick Mitchell &Co (Now KPMG) Corpus Christi
Texas
In this capacity, I performed audits for banks, manufacturing firms, retail operations, non-profits, and
government entities, simultaneously supervising several engagements with staff members at various
locations.
Aug. 1979—Dec. 1980 Instructor, Corpus Christi State University (now Texas A&M
Corpus Christi)
While pursuing my master's degree, I taught part-time and, upon completion of my master's degree,
taught full-time. Classes taught included Principles of Accounting, Cost Accounting, and Intermediate
Accounting. While working at other organizations, I have taught as an adjunct professor at this
institution, teaching classes that included Government Accounting and graduate accounting courses.
Memberships and Professional Associations:
Government Finance Officers Association of Texas — President 2001-2002; President-Elect 2000-
2001; Vice-President 1994 — 1996; Secretary 1996 — 1997; Representative from Texas to the
Government Finance Officers Association of the U.S. and Canada, 2004—2006; former presenter and
moderator at state and national conferences.
Former Adjunct Professor, Corpus Christi State University, 1990— 1992; Texas A&M University, 1995.
Former presenter for National Association of Latino Elected and Appointed Officials (NALEO) at
regional and national conferences.
Former faculty member, Utility Management Institute (UMI) of NADBANK, teaching financial
management for utilities in the United States and Mexico.
Graduate of Leadership Corpus Christi and Leadership Richardson.
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Community Service:
Former Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) for CASA of Central Texas, serving Hays, Comal,
Guadalupe and Caldwell Counties. Former member of the Board of Directors and Treasurer, October
2011 to 2012
Former Board Member, Community Credit Union and later became ViewPoint Bank in Dallas Texas,
1998 to 2007.
Former Associate Member, Board of Directors, United Heritage Credit Union, September 2011 to April
2014
Former Member, Finance and Economics Advisory Council, McCoy College of Business
Administration, Department of Finance and Economics, Texas State University, San Marcos, Texas
San Marcos Citizen Police Academy Alumni Association, 2008 to 2012
Special Awards:
In February 2015 I was selected for the Texas A&M Corpus Christi College of Business Alumni
Excellence Award.
In April 2005 I was awarded the Outstanding Service Award by the Government Finance Officers
Association of Texas (GFOAT)for 2004.
In November 2005 the Government Finance Officers Association of Texas awarded the City of
Richardson a Distinctive Innovation Award for its Infrastructure Development Program which
encompassed providing fiber-optic cable to the community through a partnership with Richardson
Independent School District, and providing Wi-Fi hotspots to allow for wireless network
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