Statement For · Randy Bolerjack and Brent Terry
statement appears partly AICommittee: Randy Bolerjack and Brent Terry
The City of Everett’s charter currently requires most civil service positions to be filled through a hiring process that relies on eligibility lists established before specific job openings. This system reflects civil service hiring practices that emerged across much of the United States in the late 19th century. Because these eligibility lists may remain in effect for up to three years, departments may be required to fill vacancies from applicant pools established many months or even years earlier. Under the current system, qualified applicants cannot be added to an eligibility list once it is established. As vacancies arise, departments may therefore be required to select candidates from lists that no longer reflect the current applicant market. By then, some candidates on the list may have accepted other employment, while other qualified individuals who have since become available cannot be considered. Proposition 263 would allow the City to modernize its hiring process and align the charter with current state law and contemporary hiring practices. Rather than relying on eligibility lists established well in advance of vacancies, applicants would apply for specific positions as they become available. Human Resources and the hiring department would evaluate candidates based on job-related qualifications and provide timely updates throughout the hiring process. Please vote to approve on Proposition 263 to modernize Everett’s civil service hiring process and help the City recruit qualified employees when positions become available.