Item No.
TO: HONORABLE MAYOR AND MEMBERS OF THE CITY COUNCIL
FROM: OFFICE OF THE CITY MANAGER
BY: JAMES MCQUEEN, DIRECTOR OF HUMAN RESOURCES
DATE: FEBRUARY 11, 2025
SUBJECT: APPROV AL OF CLASS SPECIFICATION REVISIONS AND ESTABLISHING
COMPENSATION FOR THE POSITIONS OF PARALEGAL AND CRIME
ANALYST
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The City Council will consider adopting Resolution No. 25-8289 approving classification specification revisions and establishing compensation for the positions of Paralegal and Crime Analyst. Recent recruitment efforts have indicated the need to adjust the compensation level for the position of Paralegal. Additionally, revisions are necessary for the Crime Analyst classification specifically based upon operational needs with a corresponding change in association representation.
RECOMMENDATION
That the City Council:
Adopt Resolution No. 25-8289, adopting classification specifications revisions for the positions of paralegal and crime analyst and establishing compensation.
BACKGROUND
The City’s Classification Plan is a system of consistent and uniform methodology for classifying positions and establishing compensation. This system is intended to support and facilitate understanding between management and employees regarding job expectations, provide a consistent and competitive review of qualifications for hiring and retention, and a structure for equitable compensation.
The purpose of this report is to adopt revisions to the classification specifications for the positions of Crime Analyst and Paralegal. Additionally, this report is also increasing the established salary range for the Paralegal position and establishing the Crime Analyst position as part of the Downey Public Safety Auxiliary Association.
ANALYSIS
The position of Crime Analyst was added to the Police Department budget in Fiscal Year (FY) 2023-2024. The restructuring of duties and responsibilities to meet the operational
CLASS SPECIFICATION REVISIONS AND ESTABLISH COMPENSATION FOR THE POSITIONS OF
PARALEGAL AND CRIME ANALYST
FEBRUARY 11, 2025
PAGE 2
needs of the Police Department requires revisions to the class specification for the Crime Analyst position. Consequently, the classification specification has been revised to include additional information regarding the required duties of an investigatory nature as operationally required. Incumbents in this position are required to provide both tactical and strategic analysis and investigative support in major case investigations and multi- agency task forces involving criminal activity. Additionally, this position is also responsible for conducting crime and intelligence analysis of a highly confidential or sensitive nature. This position was initially established as a non-represented exempt Middle Management position; however, based upon the revised duties, it has been determined that this is a non-exempt position that is appropriately represented by the Downey Public Safety Auxiliary Association.
In the FY 2024-2025 budget, the existing part-time position of Paralegal in the City Attorney’s office was upgraded to a full-time position. Recent recruitment efforts for this position have been unsuccessful, which prompted a compensation survey to be conducted to compare existing compensation levels to those of surrounding agencies.
As a previous part-time position, the payrate had not been receiving the same cost of living adjustment as the City’s other full-time positions. Through this review, it was determined that the salary range was approximately 33% below the median compensation of similar positions. The City is proposing a pay rate for this position of $36.6773 - $45.2776 per hour ($6,357.40 to $7,848.12 per month) which is consistent with established rates of other similar positions with surrounding public agencies. The Paralegal position is designated as Middle Management.
CITY COUNCIL PRIORITIES
Efficiency & Adaptability
FISCAL IMPACT
Approval of the recommended actions in the Police Department will result in an expenditure of approximately $15,000 from the Measure S Fund 17-4-2110, and there is sufficient funding to cover the cost, which is already included in the FY 2024-2025 Budget.
Additionally, approval of the recommended action in Administration will result in a cost of approximately $33,314 from the General Fund 10-4-1120, and there is sufficient funding to cover the cost, included in the FY 2024-2025 Budget
ATTACHMENTS
Resolution
Attachment A: Class Specification for Crime Analyst
Attachment B: Class Specification for Paralegal
RESOLUTION NO. 25-8289
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
ADOPTING CLASSIFICATION SPECIFICATIONS REVISIONS FOR THE
POSITIONS OF PARALEGAL AND CRIME ANALYST AND ESTABLISHING
COMPENSATION
WHEREAS, the Fiscal Year 2024-2025 budget includes funding for the full-time classifications of Paralegal and Crime Analyst; and
WHEREAS, a review of the duties for the position of Crime Analyst was performed based on operational needs, resulting in revisions to the classification specification with a corresponding change in representation; and
WHEREAS, a review of class specification for the position of Paralegal was performed based on operational needs, resulting in revisions to the classification specification; and
WHEREAS, a review of the compensation for the position of Paralegal has indicated the need for a market rate adjustment.
NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY DOES HEREBY RESOLVE AS FOLLOWS:
SECTION 1. The class specifications for the positions of Crime Analyst and Paralegal, as attached hereto, are hereby adopted.
SECTION 2. The position of Crime Analyst is determined to be appropriately represented by the Downey Public Safety Auxiliary Association.
SECTION 3. The following pay ranges shall take effect to coincide with the start of the pay period that includes the date of February 10, 2025:
Classification Title Grade Pay Range
Paralegal 05-500 $6,357.40 - 7,848.12/mo. (Effective 2/3/2025) Paralegal 05-500 $6,611.70 - $8,162.05/mo. (Effective 3/31/2025)
SECTION 4. The City Clerk shall certify to the adoption of this resolution.
APPROVED AND ADOPTED this 11th day of February, 2025.
HECTOR SOSA, Mayor
RESOLUTION NO. 25-8289
PAGE 2
ATTEST:
MARIA ALICIA DUARTE, CMC
City Clerk
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
______________________________
JOHN M. FUNK
City Attorney
I HEREBY CERTIFY that the foregoing Resolution was adopted by the City Council of the City of Downey at a regular meeting held on the 11th day of February, 2025, by the following vote, to wit:
AYES: Council Members:
NOES: Council Member:
ABSENT: Council Member:
ABSTAIN: Council Member:
MARIA ALICIA DUARTE, CMC
City Clerk
ATTACHMENT A
CITY OF DOWNEY
CLASS SPECIFICATION
Date Adopted: June 7, 2023
Employment Status: Regular Full-Time
Unit Representation: Mid-Management/Non-Represented
FLSA Status: Exempt
Crime Analyst
DESCRIPTION:
Under general supervision, to perform a variety of complex research and analytical duties; prepare and disseminate data and information related to actual and anticipated criminal activity to operational personnel to increase the effectiveness of patrol deployment, crime prevention, apprehension of suspects and perform other related work as required.
EXAMPLES OF ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
The following examples are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by persons assigned to this classification.
• Research, analyze, and collect data from a variety of sources to identity and evaluate crime series, patterns, trends in order to identify crime activity and criminal enterprises.
• Prepare known offender bulletins, crime series bulletins, and crime pattern bulletins with appropriate visual presentations, such as maps and link analysis charts.
• Conduct complex analysis in the forms of telephone toll analysis, link charts, timelines, flow charts, financial/asset trace reports
• Conduct crime and intelligence analysis of a highly confidential or sensitive nature.
• Provide tactical and strategic analysis and investigative support in major case investigations and multi-agency task forces involving criminal activity. • Interpret and provide statistical information for department staff members. • Communicate and collaborate with Investigative and Patrol staff to discuss, review, and evaluate crime patterns, trends, and possible intervention strategy for findings.
• Develop and prepare crime summaries, statistical reports, spreadsheets, charts, maps, diagrams, graphs and related materials in order to track and present findings related to criminal activity, patterns and trends. • Collect, review, and analyze a variety of internal and external reports in order to determine if offenders can be identified, extra deployment is needed and if preventative measures are necessary.
• Prepare predictive summary based on reported statistics, crimes, activity and analysis of typical behavior patterns.
CITY OF DOWNEY
CRIME ANALYST CLASS SPECIFICATION
• Troubleshoot and utilize department use of platforms and supporting platforms related to public crime mapping and in-house analytical software. • Testify in court on work product, findings, and methodologies. • Review and respond to information requests, both internally and externally. • Review and respond to the Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) on local, state, and national crime trends and statistics.
• Maintain effective relationships with liaisons from local, State and Federal law enforcement agencies, and US Intelligence Community to gather and share crime information and intelligence.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.
QUALIFICATIONS
Age: Must be 18 years of age or older.
Education/Training: Any combination of education and/or experience that has provided the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary for acceptable job performance as determined by the City. Example combination includes, but is not limited to graduation from an accredited college or university with a Bachelor’s degree, or completion of an accreditation program, with major course work in computer science, research methodology, statistics, criminal justice, or a closely related field, or equivalent training, and two years of experience in statistical data collection and analysis, computerized databases, records management systems, and computer aided dispatch in a law enforcement environment.
Knowledge of: Principles, methods, and techniques used to research, organize and present law enforcement, crime, and offender data; principles, practices and methods of administrative, and statistical analysis; business computer user applications particularly related to statistical analysis and data management; statistical and comparative analysis techniques, and formulae; law enforcement functions and processes; methods and techniques of lead direction, training, and motivation; modern office administrative practices and procedures; automated law enforcement information systems and procedures; applicable Federal, State, and local laws, codes, and regulations; standard office procedures, practices, and equipment; modern office equipment, including a computer and applicable software; methods, and techniques for record keeping and report preparation and writing; proper English, spelling, and grammar; and occupational hazards and standard safety practices.
Ability to: Lead, oversee, and perform complex crime analysis work; collect, compile and analyze information, and data; evaluate alternatives and reach sound conclusions; prepare accurate statistical and narrative reports of study findings and make effective presentations; use crime analysis computer software and programs; retrieve data from electronic data systems; research, compile, and
CITY OF DOWNEY
CRIME ANALYST CLASS SPECIFICATION
organize data for presentations; prepare charts, graphs, and maps; understand and follow instructions; perform a variety of work with speed and accuracy; interpret, explain, and apply applicable laws, codes, and regulations; read, interpret, and record data accurately; organize, prioritize, and follow up on work assignments; create, organize, and maintain records; work independently and as part of a team; make sound decisions within established guidelines; follow written and oral directions; observe safety principles and work in a safe manner; communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing; receive the public in person or over the phone; and establish and maintain effective working relationships
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
License Requirement: A valid California class C Driver's License or the ability to utilize an alternative method of transportation when needed to carry out job- related duties may be required.
Physical Task and Environmental Conditions: The duties and responsibilities of this position are performed in an office environment and involve sitting, standing, and walking for prolonged or intermittent periods of time, and include reaching above and below shoulder level, bending, stooping, and twisting at the waist to perform desk work, file maintenance, and operate general office equipment, including a personal computer with keyboard for prolonged or intermittent periods of time. The operation of a personal computer requires finger and wrist dexterity and the ability to withstand exposure to vibration, pitch and glare from the computer. Employee must be able to safely lift and carry books, files, and reports weighing up to 25 pounds.
Selection/Testing Process: All applications materials received by the required deadline will be reviewed and evaluated on the basis of information submitted to determine the level and scope of the applicant's qualifications for the position. For consideration, an employment application and supplemental questionnaire must be thoroughly completed. Failure to complete the information requested may result in an application being removed from consideration.
NOTE: The City of Downey reserves the right to limit the number of candidates who continue in the recruitment process based on higher scores achieved on the written examination. Candidates selected to continue in the process will be sent an invitation via email.
Those applicants who most closely match the desired qualifications for the position will be invited to participate in the examination process which will consist of:
Part I: Qualifying Written Examination. Only those applicants who meet a passing score of 70% or above on the written examination will proceed to an
CITY OF DOWNEY
CRIME ANALYST CLASS SPECIFICATION
appraisal examination (oral interview). NOTE: The City of Downey reserves the right to limit the number of candidates who continue in the recruitment process based on higher scores achieved on the written examination. Candidates selected to continue in the process will be sent an invitation via email.
Part II: Appraisal Examination (Oral Interview). An Eligibility List of qualified candidates will be established based on the results of the oral interview which will be weighted at 100%. This examination is to assess the applicant's knowledge, education, experience, and general ability to successfully perform the essential functions of the position.
Candidate(s) who complete testing with acceptable results will be considered by the Department hiring authority. Prior to an employment offer, a comprehensive background investigation is conducted, including fingerprinting and a polygraph.
A pre-placement medical exam, including a drug screen will be conducted upon issuance of a conditional offer of employment.
Qualifying veterans of the United States Armed Forces who receive a passing score on an entrance examination shall be ranked in the top rank of any resulting eligibility list. The veteran's preference shall also apply to a widow or widower of a veteran or a spouse of a 100 percent disabled veteran (Government Code § 18973.1).
Any applicant requiring reasonable accommodation during the selection process due to a qualified disability must inform the Human Resources Office at (562) 904-7292 at least 72 hours in advance.
ATTACHMENT B
CITY OF DOWNEY
CLASS SPECIFICATION
Date Adopted: July 01, 2024
Employment Status: Regular Full-Time
Unit Representation: Confidential/Non-Represented
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
Paralegal
JOB SUMMARY
Under general supervision, assists attorneys in the preparation and coordination of all stages of litigation and transactional work; and performs other related duties as assigned.
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS
The following examples are intended to describe the general nature and type of work performed at a journey level by an incumbent. Depending on assignment, duties may include but are not limited to the following:
Researches, gathers and compiles data on various legal issues, statutes, rules, precedents, facts, evidence, codes, public records, contracts, ordinances and resolutions for the preparation of cases, legal documents and legal citation references to assist the City Attorney;
Drafts and reviews agreements, resolutions, ordinances and other legal documents for accuracy;
Act as liaison between City Attorney, Risk Management and outside legal counsel for tort claims processing, discovery, trial preparation including witnesses, depositions and courtroom logistics; prepares deposition summaries, trial exhibits, evidence, notebooks and other related materials;
Independently answers inquiries or makes inquiries of City staff to interpret applicable legal requirements and provisions, relative to the City’s municipal codes, regulations, precedence, status of cases, and City procedures;
Assists in case management issues; reviews contracts for compliance with legal requirements; selects, assembles, summarizes and compiles substantive information on case status, opinions, and specific legal subjects;
Meets with members of the public to discuss and resolve disputes related to municipal code enforcement;
Assists with civil litigation, including legal research, preparing memos, fact investigation, researching and preparing discovery requests and responses, and filing and serving
PARALEGAL CLASS SPECIFICATION
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court-documents.
Communicates with elected public officials and their staff, law firms, companies and organizations doing business with the City; contacts City staff and other persons; and
Perform related duties as assigned.
The preceding duties have been provided as examples of the essential types of work performed by positions within this job classification. The City, at its discretion, may add, modify, change or rescind work assignments as needed.
QUALIFICATIONS
The candidate must possess at least one of the following:
(1) A certificate of completion of a paralegal program approved by the American Bar Association.
(2) A certificate of completion of a paralegal program at, or a degree from, a postsecondary institution that requires the successful completion of a minimum of 24 semester, or equivalent, units in law-related courses and that has been accredited by a national or regional accrediting organization or approved by the Bureau for Private Postsecondary and Vocational Education.
(3) A baccalaureate degree or an advanced degree in any subject, a minimum of one year of law-related experience under the supervision of an attorney who has been an active member of the State Bar of California for at least the preceding three years or who has practiced in the federal courts of this state for at least the preceding three years, and a written declaration from this attorney stating that the person is qualified to perform paralegal tasks.
(4) A high school diploma or general equivalency diploma, a minimum of three years of law-related experience under the supervision of an attorney who has been an active member of the State Bar of California for at least the preceding three years or who has practiced in the federal courts of this state for at least the preceding three years, and a written declaration from this attorney stating that the person is qualified to perform paralegal tasks. This experience and training shall be completed no later than December 31, 2003.
Experience: Two years of responsible journey-level paralegal experience.
Knowledge of: Applicable state and federal legal principles and procedures; Legal terminology and procedures; Legal research procedures and form; Applicable court rules, time deadlines and other related requirements; Principles and methods of legal writing and documents preparation; Advanced English language usage, spelling, grammar and punctuation; and modern office procedures, methods and computer equipment and
PARALEGAL CLASS SPECIFICATION
PAGE 3
software, including word processing, document management, case management and calendaring software.
Ability to: Coordinate and implement case discovery tasks; Effectively research and extract pertinent data from a variety of sources in the preparation of legal cases and documents; Read, interpret and apply pertinent codes, laws, ordinances and statutes; Draft and review a variety of legal documents; Initiate and compose correspondence; Respond accurately to requests and inquiries; Provide effective assistance with trial preparation and at trial; Conduct effective interviews; Work independently, using judgment in making decisions within scope of authority; Analyze problems, evaluate alternatives and make appropriate legal recommendations; Organize and schedule work to meet deadlines; Operate a personal computer and use associated software including word processing, document management, and case management and calendaring software Lexis, Westlaw, etc.; Establish and maintain effective working relationships with city officials, staff, court personnel, outside counsel and the public. Communicate clearly, concisely and effectively, both orally and in writing; Appear for work on time; Follow directions from a supervisor; Understand and follow posted work rules and procedures; Accept constructive criticism; and Establish and maintain cooperative working relationship with those contacted in the course of work.
License: Due to the performance of field duties which requires operation of a City vehicle, a valid California Class C Driver’s License to carry out the essential functions of the position and an acceptable driving record are required at the time of appointment and throughout employment.
PHYSICAL TASKS/ABILITIES: Work is performed in an office environment with moderate noise levels; duties require the ability to speak, hear, touch and see. Also required is the ability to exert a small amount of physical effort in sedentary to light work involving moving from one area to another; occasionally bending, stooping, kneeling, reaching, pushing and pulling (drawers opened and closed to retrieve and file information); occasionally lifting and carrying materials that weigh less than 20 pounds. Finger dexterity is needed to access, enter and retrieve data using a computer keyboard, typewriter, or calculator; requires sufficient hand/eye coordination to perform semi-skilled repetitive movements, such as typing on a keyboard, filing, data entry and/or use of a personal computer or other office equipment and supplies; may involve sitting or standing for prolonged periods of time.