STAFF REPORT
City of Lancaster
CC 15
11/14/2023
JC
Date:November 14, 2023
To: Mayor Parris and City Council Members
From: Human Resources
Subject:Request for Two (2) Additional Full-Time Employees for Lancaster Energy - Renewable H2 Initiatives
Recommendation:
It is recommended that the City Council:
1. Approve the addition of two full-time positions (1) Coordinator II – Hydrogen Projects and Clean Energy Initiatives and (1) Accountant – Lancaster Energy, to be fully funded by Lancaster Energy, to effectively manage and expand the City’s renewable hydrogen and clean energy projects.
2. Appropriate a total of $176,000 between various payroll accounts in fund 501, as shown in Attachment 1 to fund 6 months for the two (2) new positions.
Fiscal Impact:
The addition of these two full-time positions will have no impact on the City’s general fund as the positions are to be fully funded by Lancaster Energy. Detailed financial implications and cost breakdowns for these positions are provided in Attachment 1.
Background:
The City of Lancaster has been at the forefront of hydrogen energy development, earning the title of the “First Hydrogen City” in the United States. With the influx of over $70 million into the region for renewable energy projects, the need for dedicated personnel to manage, expand, and innovate our clean energy initiatives has become critical.
In partnership with industry leaders and through innovative projects such as green hydrogen production, solar heat generation, and more, Lancaster has established itself as a hub for clean energy. To sustain and advance this momentum, dedicated staff with specialized knowledge and experience in hydrogen technologies and clean energy initiatives are required. 1 4
3 8
The proposed Coordinator II position will add to an existing budgeted Coordinator II position to play a pivotal role in the City’s continued journey toward a sustainable and energy-independent future, contributing not only to environmental benefits but also to local job creation and economic growth. Each position costs approximately $176K annually for salary and benefits. Funding two positions for the remaining 6 months of the fiscal year will total approximately $176K. Final costs will be determined based on hire date and salary step offered to the employee when hired. A budget adjustment is requested for total sum of $176K for fiscal year 2023/24. Annualized costs will be budgeted in subsequent years.
The proposed Accountant position will provide finance and accounting support to the current Lancaster Energy operation and will report to the Director of Finance.
Attachment:
Attachment 1