www.pinellascounty.org/hr/publications.htmAugus t 2019 • Vo l . 47 No.8

Congratulations CPM Grads!

Upwards of 200 jubilant sponsors and spectators cheered as 19 Pinellas County Government employees graduated as Certified Public Managers® (CPM) on August 8. There were many graduates fromother agencies as well, including theSheriff’s Office, the State of Floridaand other local governments.

What is CPM? It’s a professional designation. The CPM program’s purpose is to develop more effective public man-agers, thereby improving services to all taxpayers. Florida has one of the most successful CPM programs in the country. The Florida State University and the Florida Center for Public Management administer the Certified Public Manager Program which is a nationally-recognized leadership development program for public employees. It is currently offered in 38 states and by the federal government.

Over 100 government agencies – including cities, counties, state and constitutional offices – have partici-pated in the Florida CPM Program.

There are 2 levels of the CPM program in Florida. The traditional program has 8 levels to complete, usually within 18 months to 2½ years. A new program called the Certified Supervisory Manager (CSM) is also available where levels one through four are completed. The CSM is considered a halfway designation.

Since 2015, 71 Pinellas County Government employees have gradu-ated with their CPM designations representing an investment of 32 8-hour days of classroom instruction plus required projects and exams by each employee, plus a $2,800 per graduate investment by their Appointing Authorities.

The program is open to all employees—classified and exempt—with the sponsorship of your department director.

Do you want to improve your skills? Grow your career? If you are interested in this program, take a look at the online materials, then talk to your director. Interested but not sure if you’re ready? Consider engaging in a Learning Path as a prerequisite.

Andrew Brown, Office of Management & Budget

Kimberley M. Circello, Real Estate Management

Greg Concannon, Real Estate Management

Alisande Davis, Tax Collector’s Office

Courtney Degros, Utilities

William Gorman, Parks & Conservation Resources

Sean Griffin, Real Estate Management

Danielle E. Holland, Human Resources

David V. Knoph, Regional 911

Julie D. Kreischer, Tax Collector’s Office

Glenda McKinney, Tax Collector’s Office

Casey Miller, Animal Services

Melissa L. Perez, Real Estate Management

Ralph Orla Reid IV, Human Resources

Michael L. Rink, Parks & Conservation Resources

Maria A. Roberts, Human Resources

Audrey J. Savas, Human Resources

Jamie K. Walseth, Tax Collector’s Office

Rebecca Lyn Wayne, Ambulance Billing & Finance Services

The Graduates

Ph

oto

cre

dit:

Flori

da C

ertified

Pu

blic

Man

age

r P

rogr

am

.

The PenA monthly publication by

Pinellas County Human ResourcesEDITOR: Mary L. Sault

Would you like to put something in the Pen?

Let us know by the first of the month. And be sure to include photos!

employee.communications@pinellascounty.org

The

Pen

P I N E L L A S P E N

P-2

AU G U S T 2 0 1 9

INSIDEClick on the topic to go directly to the page.

3Ask HR / Classification & Compensation Study Update

4KNOW Your Benefits: Biometrics & Health Survey / Tobacco Cessation

5Tribute: Paul Brooking / Clear the Shelter on Saturday, August 17 / Pets of the Month

6Work. Grow. Matter. / Congratulations to Our Summer Interns

7Emerging Learning Path Certificate Awarded / Have an Outside or Non-County Job?

8 Learning Needs Survey Results

9 Service Awards

10 Retirements / REPCO / Blood Drives

11 Promotions / Sign Up for Lunch Pals

12 Welcome Aboard!

13Consumer Corner: After the Storm Tips / Green Pinellas: Use Less Water this Summer / Record Keep: Imaging Services

14 EXTRA Section

Pen Satisfaction Survey ReportWe thank everyone who gave us feedback in the 2019 Pen Customer Satisfaction Survey.

We are happy to report that 96% of the respondents said they are very satisfied or mostly satisfied with the Pen content.

Your top eight favorite regular features are:

1. Retirements2. Ask HR3. Promotions4. Service Anniversaries5. Stories about other employees6. The Extra section7. Stories about what other departments do/

their projects8. The Total Rewards page

There were some great suggestions for content primarily centered on other employees and celebrating their success. We hear you and we’re working on that, believe it! Since last year's Pen Survey, we've run 45 stories about employees and departments, because you asked for it.

If you’d like to let us know about the contributions of your team or coworker, we have a quick and easy way for you to do it. Go to the WORK. GROW. MATTER. online survey and answer some questions like:

• “ What is the project you’d like to highlight and why?” or

• “ Have you recently received an award for your work contributions?” or

• “ How did you or your team make an impact in the community?”

We’ll review the information and determine the best way to spotlight it—in The Pen, on social media, or both. We’re looking forward to hearing from you!

Additionally, in the survey responses, there were some statements we’d like to clear up for our readers.

The Pen should not be sent via Gmail for security purposes.

It’s not. We send from Employee.Communications@pinellascounty.org.

Regarding Ask HR questions and answers, HR should contact the inquiring employee directly.

We do. We personally answer every question that comes to the Ask HR email inbox. The Ask HR questions which are published are edited to protect

identity and are intended to inform other employees who may have the same or similar questions.

Employees don’t want to be told to contact their management/Appointing Authority, or FRS, or to look up the Personnel Rules ourselves.

The Unified Personnel System (UPS) is an unusual structure. Most organizations have one HR department that reports to one CEO. The UPS has 10 Appointing Authorities (AAs) who have the authority to establish department rules and regulations concerning the conduct of their employees in addition to the Personnel Rules. HR provides services to the AAs (or employers) and partners with the AAs, but we may not make determinations on many of the AAs own policies. That’s why we must refer some employee questions to their management.

As for the Florida Retirement System (FRS), the FRS is its own entity. HR is involved in your enrollment but the FRS administers the rest.

About employees having to look up the Personnel Rules themselves—we want employees to know about and understand the Rules and that’s why we tell you where you can find them. We’re also here to help employees interpret the Rules. Please ask.

Again, thank you to all who particpated. If you missed taking the survey, please contact us at employee.communications@pinellascounty.org.

Thank you to our regular contributors:Animal Services, Pets of the Month

Mary Burrell, Emergency Management

Extension Services, Green Pinellas

Rudy Garcia, REPCO

Michele Koehler, Records Management, Clerk’s Office

Anna Marie Millet, Consumer Protection

and the Solution Partners in Human Resources

The

Pen

P I N E L L A S P E N

P-3

AU G U S T 2 0 1 9

Q. I am planning to volunteer with Pinellas County Schools, and theirwebsite indicates that if I’ve been fingerprinted by my employer, I couldrequest that information and submit it to their review process. Is thispossible?

A. Unfortunately no. Our background checks may only be used for em-ployment and volunteer determinations for the Unified Personnel Systemand may not be used for other purposes by other agencies. We also donot keep the results from the background checks. When the results arereceived, we verify that they are legitimate, note the record, and destroythem.

An individual can request a copy of their Florida criminal history record from the FDLE for purpose of personal review or to challenge the results. See the FDLE web page on the topic for the clarification.

Keeping You InformedExplore the Human Resources Website: www.pinellascounty.org/hr

Benefits

Employee Relations

Health and Wellness

Jobs/Career Opportunities

Learning and Development

Pay and Classification

Retirement

Read Our Publications: The Pen - employee newsletter -

(monthly)

To Your Health - employeewellness newsletter (monthly)

Leadership Notes - newsletterfor supervisors and subscribers(monthly)

Retiree Connection - newsletterfor retirees (quarterly)

Follow Us on Social Media: Facebook - PCGovCareers

Facebook - PinellasVolunteers

Twitter - PCGovCareers

Twitter - VolInPinellas

Instagram - PCGovCareers

LinkedIn - PinellasCounty

Learn About the Latest EAC Activities: Employees’ Advisory Council

Stay Up-to-Date on Projects: Classification & Compensation

Study

2019 Employee Voice Survey

The survey is 100% confidential. An outside agency (HCP Associates) is conducting the survey. Neither Human Resources nor your man-

ager can see names or personalized results.

Look for the link to the survey in your August 12 work email.

If you haven't received the survey or if you have questions, contact HCP at research@hcpassociates.com.

Your voice matters.

You. Are. Awesome.Nearly half of employees completed

the Employee Voice Survey IN THE FIRST TWO DAYS. If you haven’t taken it yet, it only takes about 10 minutes.

The survey closes Monday, August 26.

Classification & Compensation Study: Phase II of the Evergreen Study Continues

Phase II of the Class and Comp Study is ongoing. Impacted employ-ees received their preliminary notifications on August 2 and August 6. All employees will have an opportunity to request a secondaryreview from Evergreen Solutions. The deadline for submitting thesecondary review form is listed in each employee’s notification letter.

For current and historical information on the Classification and Com-pensation Study, visit the Human Resources webpage at www.pinellascounty.org/hr/study.

* NOTE: This does not apply to employees under the Clerk of the CircuitCourt and Comptroller, Property Appraiser, Supervisor of Elections,and Tax Collector as those Constitutional Officers have chosen tomaintain their current Exempt pay plans.

The

Pen

P I N E L L A S P E N

P-4

AU G U S T 2 0 1 9

YOUR TOTAL REWARDSHealth ● Wellness ● Retirement ● Compensation

BENEFITS PARTNERSDENTALCigna(800) 244-6224www.mycigna.com

EAP/BEHAVIORAL HEALTHComPsych GuidanceResources(866) 615-3047www.guidanceresources.com

FLEXIBLE SPENDING ACCOUNT (FSA)WageWorks(877) 924-3967www.wageworks.com

HEALTH SAVINGS ACCOUNT (HSA) Optum Bank(800) 791-9361www.optumbank.com

LIFE INSURANCEStandard Insurance Company(855) 290-9479www.standard.com

MEDICALUnitedHealthcare(888) 478-4752www.myuhc.com

PRESCRIPTIONExpress Scripts(866) 544-9221www.expressscripts.com

VISIONDavis Vision(800) 999-5431www.davisvision.com

Take Care of YourselfIn August's To Your Health newsletter, you will find information about:

Mobile Mammograms

30-Day Tune-Up - the newfall Wellness Series

Tobacco Cessation classes

Financial Wellness ... andmore!

All employees must attest whether they are a tobacco user during Annual Enrollment (November). If you do not attest or are a tobacco user, you will be assessed a $500 Tobacco Premium in 2020 UNLESS you complete an approved Tobacco Cessation Program between August 1, 2019 and March 31, 2020.

To schedule a class at your location, you must have a minimum of 3 partici-pants. Contact your Wellness Champion or email Wellness to make a request at wellness@pinellascounty.org.

Announcing Two New On-site “Quit Your Way” 4 Week Group Quit Series

ThursdaysAugust 22nd – September 12th

8/22/19 1:00 - 2:00 p.m. 8/29/19 1:00 - 2:00 p.m. 9/5/19 1:00 - 2:00 p.m. 9/12/19 1:00 - 2:00 p.m.

Pinellas County Justice Center2nd Floor Clerk’s Conference Room 14250 49th St. N., Clearwater

To register, contact the local Tobacco Free Florida at (813) 929-1000. View other available programs to satisfy the requirement. Of note: Outside experts evaluated the Tobacco Free Florida Tobacco Cessation Program and determined that tobacco cessation can be achieved in a 4-week series. As a result, the class is now 4 weeks long. It continues to follow guidelines for tobacco use and dependence. All 4 classes must be completed to avoid the $500 premium surcharge.

Tobacco Cessation

Employees enrolled in our group health plan receive a $500 discount on their premium for completing an annual biometric health screening and related health survey by December 31, 2019. (See FAQs.) Biometric screenings measure:

• Height and weight• Blood pressure and cholesterol• Blood glucose (fasting)

What’s in it for me?Research shows that chronic health conditions cause 75% of all healthcare costs. By checking your biometrics annually, you learn your risk for chronic conditions such as diabetes and heart disease, and potential health events, such as heart attack and stroke. You can learn ways to prevent chronic conditions, and improve your overall

health and wellbeing. This enables you to help manage both your own health care costs as well as our group health plan costs.

As a member of a self-insured group, each of us can do our part to reduce health costs and manage our premium contributions. All health information is confidential between each employee and their physician or other healthcare provider.

What’s in it for Pinellas County?Aggregated biometrics and health survey data helps Pinellas County improve our health and wellness programs to ensure our workforce is engaged, and prepared to effectively serve the citizens of Pinellas County.

KNOW YOUR BENEFITS

In the next few months, the Know Your Benefits Series will feature benefits programs you need to KNOW and understand so you can make the right choices for you and your family.

Biometrics & Health Survey

WednesdaysSeptember 4 - 25

9/4/19 11:00 - 12:00 p.m. 9/11/19 11:00 - 12:00 p.m. 9/18/19 11:00 - 12:00 p.m.9/25/19 11:00 - 12:00 p.m.

Printing Services8585 Somerset Dr., Suite BLargo

The

Pen

P I N E L L A S P E N

P-5

AU G U S T 2 0 1 9

Tribute

Paul Brooking, 63, of Fleet Management, passed away unexpectedly on July 28, 2019.

A service was held August 2nd at Holloway Funeral Home in Oldsmar. View his obituary online

His wife, Sandy Brooking, works in EMS & Fire Administration and his niece, Jessica Hoskins, works in the County Attorney’s Office.

His former coworker, Bobby Voss (PCR) sent this tribute: Mr. Paul Brooking was very devoted to his Fleet customers, helping to repair or replace parts and equipment as needed. As a true man of honor, Parks North and South mowing crew will truly miss his loyalty.

His coworkers in Fleet will miss Paul:

He will be sorely missed by his co-workers here in the Fleet Manage-ment Department. His vast array of knowledge and experience in heavy equipment repair was top notch.

The “big guy” in heavy equipment — as we affectionately referred to him — loved what he did and was always willing to help out a co-worker. Rest in peace Paul.

Pets of the MonthContributed by Pinellas County Animal Services

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.

Jitterbug is looking for his ladybug! When you meet Jitterbug there is nothing about him that you won’t like. Jitterbug likes to take everything in with his eyes. He has an easygoing personality and chubby cheeks which he adores having rubbed. At first you may not notice that he is polydactyl – having an extra toe on his front paws. Even though Jitterbug is not overweight, he is a solid cat, making you want to hug and cuddle him. Jitterbug would probably enjoy sitting at the window watching the outside world, happy to be safe as an inside only cat. A friendly boy, Jitterbug may seek out his special person for petting, loving and possibly some playtime.

Say hello to Nova, a 5 year old, affectionate sweetie pie who loves to give kisses. She also LOVES toys. She will gladly lay at your feet and entertain herself with her chew toy or Kong ball. She appears house trained, knows

"sit" and is friendly around other dogs. Nova walks well on a leash but better with a harness. Just imagine coming home to that sweet, smiling face each day. Nova has been at the shelter since March and we just can’t understand why!? Please stop by the shelter and meet this good girl.

On Saturday, August 17th, Animal Services will participate in the national Clear the Shelter event. Our extended hours will be from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Adoption fees will be waived for ALL dogs and cats adopted on this day! Please stop by and give one of these special pets a furever home!

Clear the Shelter! Saturday, August 17

The

Pen

P I N E L L A S P E N

P-6

AU G U S T 2 0 1 9

WORK. GROW. MATTER.

Congratulations to Our Summer Interns

For our current internship opportunities, visit www.pinellascounty.org/intern. If your department is interested in offering an internship opportunity, contact us at volunteers@pinellascounty.org.

Have an intern or volunteer in your department that you’d like to highlight? Complete the Intern/Volunteer Nomination form.

Do you have family or friends interested in a career in public service? Be sure to watch the Pinellas County Workforce Recruitment video highlighting various career opportunities with Pinellas County and share on social media using the hashtag #WorkGrowMatter.

Watch the Pinellas County Summer Internship Participa-tion video spotlighting 3 depart-ments. (Made by our partners at the Pinellas County Schools.)

Congrats to our Summer Career Acceleration Program high school students who completed their internship with Pinellas County Government in July. Eight interns contributed over 1,100 hours in 7 weeks. Check out some of their accomplishments.

Interns are pictured here with some of their supervisors.

This past year, the Human Resources team has worked towards positioning Pinellas County as a top choice employer in the Tampa Bay region. How did we do that?

Developed partnerships withhigh schools and colleges byoffering internship opportuni-ties to students. In this yearalone, over 50 interns contrib-uted close to 5,000hours. Our internshipprogram continues togrow and we’d love totalk to you if your department isinterested in hosting an intern.

Attended over 20 career fairsto attract new candidates. Aswe head into another careerfair season, we are excited topartner with many departmentsto attend alongside our team tohelp promote the County as agreat place to work.

Established a digital presencewith new social media pages.We post more than just job

opportunities. We share sneak peaks into County jobs, share achievements of our employees and welcome our new employees with a New Employ-ee Orientation photo. Follow along with #WorkGrowMatter on LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook and Twitter.

Developed company pages onIndeed and Glassdoor to promotethe County’s company culture toboth passive and active candidates.

Created a careers video that high-lights various career opportunitieswithin the County and features ourown employees. We encourage youto share the video with your familyand friends on social media.

Our employees are eligible for an award through the Employee Referral Program.

Established the Work. Grow. Matter.tagline – which is much more thanjust a tagline. Its goal is to highlight:

• the important work we do (Work),

• the career and learning opportuni-ties within the County (Grow), and

• the difference you make in thecommunity and the positive work-place we hope to provide to ouremployees (Matter).

In the coming weeks and months, you will see more of our branded career materials.

To help promote career growth, webegan emailing employees internal career opportuni-ties every week. Since we be-gan in June, the list generates over 1,000 views weekly.

To help promote learning opportuni-ties, we began sending out a biweek-ly reminder of upcoming courses toall employees.

Via a new and easy tool, share howyou or your team can be featuredas part of the Work. Grow. Matter.campaign.

We're glad you are a part of the Pinellas County team. You make a difference every day!

What's the Meaning Behind WORK. GROW. MATTER.?

The

Pen

P I N E L L A S P E N

P-7

AU G U S T 2 0 1 9

Learning Paths offer a unique op-portunity to develop yourself and expand your skills.

Different Paths for Different Needs

There are seven Learning Paths which include instructor-led and self-paced learning to help you build knowledge and skills progressively over time. Courses are tailored for every level—core to advanced.

Certificates and microcertifica-tions are available upon successful completion.

It’s easy to start! See the Learning Paths Guide, or email learning@pinellascounty.org, or call (727) 464-3796.

Ready to Take Your Career to New Heights?

Nicole Knopf was awarded the Emerging Leader Learning Path Certificate of Completion on July 18.

How did you get involved with the Emerging Leader Path? I have taken many classes offered by the County over the years. When I was presented with the information about the Learn-ing Paths, I knew it was the next step to take.

What did you like most about completing your Learning Path? Each class was full of very help-

Emerging Leader Learning Path Certificate Awarded

If it’s approved in advance by your Appointing Authority and complies with all policies, it’s OK. But that’s not all you have to do. You may also need to request a renewal of approval from your Appointing Au-thority under certain circumstances too. Sometimes that’s overlooked. Here are many common examples of where employees might forget to report their Outside or Non-County work:

• An employee begins outside con-tract work (for example, drivingfor Uber or contract consultingwork, and so on) and doesn’tcomplete the form in OPUS to getprior approval for the work.

ful information that can be used to help me be the best leader I can be at every level.

What would you tell someone who is considering completing a Learn-ing Path? You should go for it! There really is nothing to lose and a ton of information to gain. If pos-sible, take your classes in person. The conversation and experience of your classmates is the best part of each class.

What are your aspirations? I am confident that the information I learned in the Emerging Leader Path will help give me an advan-tage. Maybe by the time this article is printed, you will see my name in the promotion section of The Pen.

Tell us about someone who has in-fluenced/mentored you. How have they helped you? Kevin Connelly (HR) was my advisor through this whole process. He took the time to sit down and explain the process. Anytime I had a ques-tion, he made sure I understood the answer. He is really great at his job, and I can’t thank him enough for all of the knowledge and support he has given me!

Do You Have an Outside or Non-County Job?• An employee starts their own busi-

ness and doesn’t complete the formin OPUS to get prior approval.

• An employee begins work with anoutside employer and does completethe form in OPUS and gets approval,but they later stop working with thatoutside employer and do not up-date OPUS to indicate the date theystopped working with the outsideemployer.

• An employee begins outside em-ployment with a different outsideemployer and doesn’t update theiremployers in OPUS to obtain priorapproval.

You must request renewal of your Appointing Authority’s approval if there is ever a change in:

◆ Your classification

◆ Area of assignment, and/or

◆ The nature of the approved outsideemployment or enterprise

It’s your responsibility to complete the forms and get the approval from your Appointing Authority, and to update your Outside Employment status via OPUS Self-Service.

Read the Outside or Non-County Employment policy and the Request for Outside Employment or Enterprise.

The

Pen

P I N E L L A S P E N

P-8

AU G U S T 2 0 1 9

The results of the Organizational & Talent Development (OTD) Learning Needs Survey are in! Over 500 employees anony-mously shared their thoughts about learning and develop-ment opportunities. Here’s what we learned:

1. Survey respondents were most satisfied with the convenience of course start/end times but were least satisfied with instructor-led courses preparing them for future jobs. We’re developing new courses that better match the needs of our workforce while still offering courses that fit their preferred schedule.

2. Many survey respondents were unfamiliar with our Learning Paths. 38.49% indi-cated they were “not so” or

“not at all” familiar with the program. Learn more about Learning Paths.

3. Only 3.97% of survey respon-dents indicated that they didn’t know about or were unfamiliar with the Tuition Reimbursement program. Learn about the Tuition Reimbursement Program.

4. The most frequently request-ed course topics for future classes by survey respondents were more technical classes, more advanced Microsoft Office classes, and other specific technology-related

courses. We will continue to evalu-ate these suggestions. Stay tuned!

5. Survey respondents ranked hands-on learning (e.g. on-the-job train-ing or mentoring) as their most preferred learning method. The least preferred learning method of survey respondents was e-Learning or online learning (e.g. ULearnIT). We’ll continue to offer multiple learning methods for all types of learning styles using various delivery approaches.

6. One-half-day classes seem to be the sweet spot and survey respondents ranked it as their most preferred course length. We’ll continue to offer a variety of learning opportunities for all learners, but having this data helps us plan and adjust for the future.

7. Responses as to whether employ-ees can schedule time to utilize ULearnIT during work hours were mixed. We’ll continue to work with supervisors and management teams to find innovative ways to fit learn-ing into daily routines.

So, what happens now?Publishing the 2020 Learning Catalog. We’ll retire some courses, add new ones, and revamp others to offer diverse options to better meet the learning needs of our workforce. The catalog will be launched later this year.

Alignment of courses with competency factors and clusters. In order to better guide employees

and supervisors into appropriate instructor-led learning opportunities, we will begin the process of aligning learning to competency factors and clusters. You’ll see these changes in the upcoming Learning Catalog.

Expansion of customized learning solutions. To provide customized solutions for learning and develop-ment that fall outside of our pub-lished Learning Catalog, we will continue to offer customized learn-ing opportunities for departments and teams that request facilitated sessions on-site.

Enhancements to the market-ing of our learning opportunities. We’ll work closely with Human Resources Communications and Outreach to develop better marketing and outreach plans for our learning products to ensure that our focus areas align with employee and supervisor needs.

Developing employee focus groups. In order to continue the conversation, OTD plans to host employee focus groups in order to dig deeper into learning needs.

From the entire OTD team, thank you to everyone that participated in the survey! If you didn’t have an opportunity to participate and would like to share your feedback (or if you ever have any questions about learning opportunities available to employees), please con-tact OTD at 464-3796 or learning@pinellascounty.org.

Learning Needs Survey Results

Pinellas Parler ToastmastersWant to improve your confidence? Become a better speaker? Develop leadership skills? Come see what Toastmasters can do for you! Meets the first and third Thursdays of every month, 6:00 to 7:15 p.m.

NEW meeting location: Florida Botanical Gardens, Gardenia Room, 12520 Ulmer-ton Road, Largo. Membership is open to all.

For more information, visit the website: https://pinellasparler.toastmastersclubs.org.

WHERE LEADERS ARE MADE

The 2019 Learning Catalog is available online.

The catalog presents learning opportuni-ties for employees and provides a framework to develop your knowledge and skills. View the catalog.

Learn Today, Be Ready for Tomorrow

The

Pen

P I N E L L A S P E N

P-9

AU G U S T 2 0 1 9

SERVICE ANNIVERSARIES30 YEARS

Unavailable for Photo35 YearsAlbert Green, Airport

30 YearsRoy Hayden, Public Works, Dobbie Moore, Utilities, John Segrete, Building & Development Review Services

25 YearsBrook Gajan, Planning, Debra Heller, Utilities, Malcolm Walker, Utilities

20 YearsLeonard Lewis, Public Works, Lori Yackoski, Airport

15 YEARS Jill Bird ............................................................Clerk of the Circuit CourtCatherine Burch ...........................................Clerk of the Circuit CourtAndrew Devereux ..............Building & Development Review SvcsErwin Ernestine ............................................................................Utilities Camille Evans...........................................................Human ResourcesJeffrey Haynes ...........................................Property Appraiser’s OfficeDaniel Magelnicki ........................................Clerk of the Circuit CourtPaula Meadors .............................................Clerk of the Circuit CourtMichael Meidel .............................................Economic DevelopmentGeorge Proper ..............................................................................Utilities Derelynn Revie .............................................Clerk of the Circuit CourtMichele Routh ...............................................................................AirportEdward Sheehy ............................................Clerk of the Circuit CourtHiram Stegall ................................................Clerk of the Circuit Court

10 YEARSDavid Haumann ..................................Safety & Emergency Services

5 YEARSJeffrey Albenzio ...................................................Tax Collector’s OfficeJosephine Benwell .............................................................Public Works Carlos Cespedes ...........................................Clerk of the Circuit CourtKalani Cooner ...........................................Property Appraiser’s OfficeLisa Dozois ...........................................Convention & Visitors BureauSarah Herzig .......................................................................... Solid Waste Laurel Jimenez .........................................Property Appraiser’s OfficeChristine Luby ......................................................Tax Collector’s OfficeDonald Mello ................................Office of Management & BudgetGreggory Milam ............................Parks & Conservation Resources Betul Pekdur ........................................................Tax Collector’s OfficeLouis Ricardo .......................................Business Technology ServicesKaren Russell ......................................Convention & Visitors BureauDawn Seddon ...............................................Clerk of the Circuit CourtCheryl Soszka .................................................................................Airport

Aravinda Tangirala .............................Business Technology ServicesJordan Walsh .....................................................Commissioner’s OfficeJacqueline Warr........................................Property Appraiser’s Office

3 YEARSSummer Anderson..............................Safety & Emergency ServicesHeather Canham .........................................................................Utilities Heather Dame .....................................Safety & Emergency ServicesShawn Daniels ....................................................................Public Works Anthony Fabrizio ..............................Marketing & CommunicationsStephanie Gibbons ......................................Clerk of the Circuit CourtJoshua Goodrick ..................................Business Technology ServicesJohn Huff ......................................................Real Estate ManagementMegan Ilavsky .......................................Safety & Emergency ServicesNatasha Keene .............................................Clerk of the Circuit CourtJoshua Kirchmann .............................................................. Solid Waste Hilary Lehman............................................................ Forward PinellasWilliam Logan .....................................................................Public Works Donald Lomas ....................................................................Public Works Amy Meloy ....................................................Clerk of the Circuit CourtRyan Miller ..........................................................................Public Works Lisa Oliver .............................................Business Technology ServicesGail Payne .............................................Business Technology ServicesStephanie Pego .............................Parks & Conservation Resources Craig Queen ..........................................Safety & Emergency ServicesChristopher Reyes ...............................Business Technology ServicesJanelle Rodriguez .........................................Solid Waste DepartmentDavid Sereboff .......................... Office of Technology & InnovationTerresa Spriggs .............................................Real Estate ManagementEdwin Suarez-Rivera ........................................................... Solid Waste Stephanie Thackeray ..................................Clerk of the Circuit CourtToni Treadway ..............................................Clerk of the Circuit CourtDarren Ware ..................................................................................AirportJenna Wiese................................................................... Animal Services

20 YEARS

25 YEARS

Judy Kujawa, Solid Waste, Gail Stewart, Clerk of the Circuit Court

Karen SerranoClerk of the Circuit Court

Marianne Stamer, Clerk of the Circuit CourtMichael Zas, County Attorney’s Office

Della KlugCounty Administrator’s

Office

John Dunlap, Real Estate Management, Lynette Christian, Clerk of the Circuit Court

The

Pen

P I N E L L A S P E N

P-10

AU G U S T 2 0 1 9

RetiRements

OveR 35 YeaRs

The next REPCO lunch meeting will be September 9, 2019 at Applebee’s Restaurant located at 5110 East Bay Drive. The meeting will begin at 11:30 a.m. A representative from the Suncoast CenterInc. will join us and provide a presentation on

“When to Seek Help for Mental Health Care” andother services the agency provides. If you have anyquestions, contact Rudy Garcia at (813) 855-3466 orrdgarcia@verizon.net.

REPCO News 38 Years Cecilia Daniels, Engineering Specialist 1, Transportation Division, Public Works

Over 34 Years Susan Blanco, Executive Assistant, Tax Collector’s Office

Over 29 Years Lora Strong, Engineering Technician 2, Development Review Services

Over 27 Years Michael Ferrara, Accounting Specialist, Real Estate Management

Over 25 Years Deborah Riehle, Animal Control Officer 1, Animal Services

Retirees Unavailable for Photo

OveR 33 YeaRs

James WilsonPark Supervisor

Fort De Soto, Parks & Conservation Resources

Terrol RichardsonRecords Specialist 2

Criminal Court Records, Clerk of the Circuit Court

Larry ColemanTraffic Technician 3

Transportation Division, Public Works

OveR 18 YeaRs

Pam TraasPark Ranger 1, Parks

North District, Parks & Conservation Resources

BLOOD DRIVES

Mark Your Calendars

Public Works22211 US Hwy. 19 N.Building 1, ClearwaterAugust 2212:00 - 5:00

Utilities Building14 S. Fort Harrison Ave. ClearwaterAugust 218:30 - 1:30

You can schedule an appointment at

www.oneblooddonor.org.

Downtown Clearwater Courthouse315 Court St., west lotAugust 20 11:00 - 4:00

Mid-County Tax Collector13025 Starkey RoadOctober 18:00 - 1:00

North County Tax Collector29399 US Hwy. 19 N.October 1611:00 – 4:00

View the NEW blood donation web page.

Want some valuable tips for dealing with Traditionals, Baby Boomers, Gen X, Gen Y, and Gen Z coworkers? Take 2 minutes to watch the video Five Generations: One Workforce or read the script.

Learn Something New in 2 Minutes2New

in

The

Pen

P I N E L L A S P E N

P-11

AU G U S T 2 0 1 9

PromotionsPromotions listed are for July 2019.

Board of County Commissioners

Human Resources

Tax Collector’s Office

Animal ServicesJohn Hohenstern ............................................Ani Cntl Ofcr 1

Convention & Visitors BureauJeffrey John .................................................. Sr CVB Sales Rep

County AdministrationBrian Lowack .............................................. Asst to Co Admin

Emergency ManagementSeason Groves ...................................... Emer Mgmt Coord 2Mecca Serfustini ................................... Emer Mgmt Coord 2

Parks & Conservation ResourcesJohn MacCracken .................................................Park Rngr 1Scott McGrail ....................................................... Lifeguard SrCharles Ripple ......................................................Park Rngr 2

Public WorksJacob Coulter ...................................................Traf Sig Tech 1Eddie Teartt .................................................................Maint 2

PurchasingSharon Beacht ........................................... Proc Analyst AsstDustin Guinta ............................................. Proc Analyst AsstBryant Williams .......................................... Proc Analyst Asst

Real Estate ManagementTiffani Schrader ................................................Accountant 1Kyle Steele ..................................................... Fleet Svc CoordDaniel Sundermeyer ......................................HVAC Sys Tech

Safety & Emergency ServicesTyler Burk ............................... 911 Pub Safety Telecomm 2Julio Chopite Botello ............................... Medical Blng SpecJason Oldfield ..............................................Acctg & Fin TechCraig Queen .......................................Contract Admin Coord

UtilitiesCharles Butter .............................................Acctg & Fin TechTheodore Dallas .....................................................Trne UF AGary Dziedzic.........................................................Maint SupvKenneth Houston, Sr..............................................Trne UF AJoel Kelsey ..................................................... Eng Sect Mgr-PE

*Effective May 2019.

Jim Beaty* ...................................................................HR Tech

Frankie Blasewitz ..................................................Tax Tech 3Robert Carlson, Jr. ..................................................Tax Tech 3Christopher Cordero Torres .................................Tax Tech 3David McCraney .....................................................Tax Tech 3Janet McMahon .....................................................Tax Tech 3

Clerk of the Circuit Court

Alexis Braswell ...................................................... Rec Spec 2Dinalda Canizales ............................................... Fis Rec SpecCecelia Coley ...............................................Fin Opns AnalystShantay Daniels .................................... Clk Rep Supt Spec 1Alicia Dietz ............................................................. Rec Spec 2Markell Riley .......................................................... Rec Spec 2Janai Smith-Glasgow ............................................ Rec Spec 2

County Attorney’s OfficeBrendan MacKesey ......................................... Asst Co Atty 2

Property Appraiser’s Office

Terrence Dukes, Jr. ......................................PAO Appraiser 1Ashley Flaherty ............................................PAO Appraiser 2Enlio Freyle ...................................................PAO Appraiser 2Christian Steiermann ..................................PAO Appraiser 2Uzma Syed .................................................................. DirectorBruce Wright ................................................PAO Appraiser 3

Invest In a Student’s Future: Sign Up For Lunch Pals As school gets back in session this month, consider making a small commitment: 30 minutes, once a week.

Lunch Pals is an opportunity to give a student the pres-ence of a caring, consistent and committed adult in their lives on a weekly basis. As you may know, employ-ees under the County Administrator can use up to 90 minutes per week of paid administrative leave to participate in this partnership program with Pinellas County Schools.

If you’d like to join the program or learn more, attend an On-Site Mentor Workshop on Aug. 20, 8:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. at Pinellas County Utilities, 4th Floor Learning Center, 14 S. Fort Harrison Ave., Clearwater. Register here.

The

Pen

P I N E L L A S P E N

P-12

AU G U S T 2 0 1 9

Board of County Commissioners

Welcome Aboard!New employees listed are for July 2019.

Clerk of the Circuit CourtKelvin Cooks .................................Cust Info Ctr Spec 1Arielle Richardson ................................Fin Opns TechAnna Shaffer .................................Cust Info Ctr Spec 1

Ambulance/BillingChelsea Pray ............................................ Office Spec 2

Animal ServicesKimberly Roys .................................... Veterinary Tech

County Administration Henry Hodde .....................................Proj Coord-Tech

Development Review ServicesMartyna Krege ........................................ Office Spec 2

Emergency ManagementCaleb Jones ....................................... Emer Mgmt Spec

Parks & Conservation ResourcesSteve Chakonas ....................................................AEO 2Matthew Karkheck ................................... Park Rngr 1Michael Polizzi .......................................... Park Rngr 1Ronald Young ........................................... Park Rngr 1Melissa West .....................................Admin Supt Spec

Public WorksCharles Bedard .............................................Trne UF AKyle Bertsch ........................................ Tree Trimmer 1Gabriel Brooklin ............................................Trne UF ASusan Goebel-Canning ............................... Sect Mgr 3Cody Hall ............................................................Maint 1Geoffrey Martin .............................................Trne UF AJohn Riggio ....................................... Prop & Strs Clk 3

Regional 911Dawn Catacchio ...........................Law Enf TelecommMatthew James ............................Law Enf TelecommBrian Kilcoyne ..............................Law Enf TelecommJessica Knapp ...............................Law Enf TelecommBlanca Pacheco-Muller ...............Law Enf Telecomm

Solid WasteMichael Albert ...........................Solid Waste Prog Asst

UtilitiesTheodore Ashby.....................Wtr Conserv Cmpl OfcrJeremy Levine ................................. Elec/Mech Tech 1Jenelle Ostrowski ................................................ Sr Eng

Have you seen the “How are we doing?” link on HR’s website and emails? Take this quick anonymous Customer Satisfaction Survey whenever you contact Human Resources.

Let us know: Did you get what you need in a timely manner? What do you think we can do to improve? We want to hear from you to help us serve you better.

HR Wants Your Feedback

New Employee Orientation July 8.

New Employee Orientation July 22.

The

Pen

P I N E L L A S P E N

P-13

AU G U S T 2 0 1 9

Create Sustainable SolutionsVision • Innovation • Collaboration

THE RECORD KEEPER

Records Management provides imaging services for qualifying projects. We work closely with our customers to develop a unique imaging and indexing strategy so documents can be easily recalled.

Our skilled imaging team will convert your paper records to digital format and store the digital records in AppXtender. AppXtender includes an extensive security model to keep your records secure, and it is also easy to use.

If you are interested in learning more about the imaging services we provide, please contact Daniel Magelnicki in Records Management at 464-4406.

Imaging Services with Records Management

Consumer Corner

Connie Consumer

After the Storm Tips

For more information, to check the complaint history of a business or to file a complaint, contact Pinellas County Consumer Protection at (727) 464-6200 or at www.pinellascounty.org/consumer/tips.htm.

Use less water this summer!

UF/IFAS Extension is an Equal Opportunity Institution

It’s important to be prepared before a storm, but it’s just as important to protect ourselves after the storm. Storm-related scams can cause you financial damage. Pinellas County Consumer Protection offers these post-disaster tips to help keep you safe.

Deal only with licensed and insured contractors. Verify that the license is current andactive by calling the Pinellas County Construction Licensing Board at (727) 582-3100 or visitwww.pcclb.com.

During a declared state of emergency, it is illegal for anyone to sell necessary goods orservices at higher than normal prices; this is known as price gouging. If you suspect pricegouging during a declared state of emergency, you can report the incident to PinellasCounty Consumer Protection at (727) 464-6200.

Never let anyone into your home without first asking for identification. Representatives of utilities, governmentoffices and reputable businesses will have proper identification.

Beware of unlicensed and unscrupulous adjusters for hire. Adjusters for hire charge a commission which YOUmust pay. Adjusters for hire CANNOT speed up the claim process.

Vehicles may sustain damage due to a natural disaster. Before you purchase a used vehicle make sure to haveit thoroughly inspected. You should verify the repair shop is properly registered with the Florida Department ofAgriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS). To learn about your rights under the Florida Motor Vehicle RepairAct, visit at www.freshfromflorida.com

All charities soliciting within the State of Florida, excluding religious, educational and governmental entities, arerequired to register and file financial information with the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.Be sure to check out the status of a charity before you donate by calling (800) HELP-FLA (435-7352) or visit theState of Florida’s Check a Charity resource.

Try these helpful tips:

Take shorter, cooler showers.

Use a carwash instead of washing at home.

Water your yard at night and check irrigation timers.

P-14

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.

Gone but notForgottenThe Pen is saddened to report the passing

of the following retirees:

Classified AdsFor Sale — SUN VILLAGE M.H.P.1 B/R, 1 bath, single wide mobile home family park, pets ok. Available 8/1/2019. Large screened in porch, w/shed, private driveway. $4,000 OBO. Seminole Blvd. & Ulmerton Rd. area. Contact Tom (727) 580-0384

Catherine Mullen, 81, passed away on July 15. She was an Assistant Director in the Clerk’s Court and Operational Services Division and retired in 2005 with over 24 years of dedicated service to the Clerk’s office. Catherine was a resident of Pennsylvania at the time of her passing. Read her obituary.

Saroukos, Pantelis “Pete,” 59, of Tarpon Springs, passed away July 29, 2019. He retired from Pinellas County Solid Waste in 2018 after 16 years of service. Services were held August 2. Read his obituary.

Genevieve Slaton, 83, passed away July 25, She retired in 1997 after 21 years with the Tax Collector's Office.

Want to Get Rid of Stuff?Advertise here for FREE if you'd like to give away, donate, or sell something.

All County employees, active or retired, permanent or temporary, may submit ads. Only personal items can be advertised - business or commercial ads or ads providing services will not be published.

To submit an ad, complete this online form.

Questions? Contact Employee.Communications@pinellascounty.org.

The Pen is published once per month on or around the 15th. Submissions are due the 1st of the month.