You will recall from previous Board Bulletin communications that County and City of Charlotte staff has been exploring potential mutual opportunities in a consolidated fleet maintenance operation. The City’s Business Support Services (BSS) presented the County with a proposal earlier this spring. After considerable examination, we have concluded that the City has made a sound proposal that warrants further negotiation. As a result, I have directed County staff to continue discussions with the City. If these discussions prove fruitful, we would take the next step in negotiating a potential agreement for consideration by the Board.

 

In general, we believe the City’s proposal satisfies our three key questions:

The proposal includes cost savings for the County, while maintaining or enhancing fleet maintenance services. In addition, as we communicated previously, the City’s proposal would ensure that all current County fleet employees would be extended the opportunity to become City employees. Over time, the City anticipates that operational efficiencies will allow a reduction in the number of technicians needed to perform work on the County’s fleet. However, it is not anticipated that anyone would lose their job as a result of realizing efficiencies. Instead, reductions in positions would be made through attrition, such as retirements and other vacancies.

 

We will continue to keep the Board updated as we need arises in this process. If you have questions about this matter, please contact General Manager John McGillicuddy at (704) 336-2661 or john.mcgillicuddy@mecklenburgcountync.gov

 

 

On June 20, the BizHub Board of Directors voted to dissolve the Charlotte-based BizHub Network and merge with services already provided by CPCC’s Institute for Entrepreneurship. The BizHub Network was established as a non-profit organization and one-stop small business resource center through a coordinated effort among several resource partners including CPCC, Charlotte Chamber, PLCMC, Centralina Workforce Development Board, City of Charlotte, and the County. The effective date for dissolving the entity is August 31, with no staff employed after June 30.

 

The free services provided by the BizHub, including guidance to people wanting to start their own companies, will be transferred to CPCC’s Institute for Entrepreneurship along with all tangible and intangible assets. These assets include furniture and office supplies, website, and ownership rights to Resource Navigator (an Internet-based tool to assist potential start-ups with locating local resources that help with everything from evaluating business plans to financing).

 

You will recall that the County’s Minority, Women, and Small Business Enterprise (M/W/SBE) Office was moved to CPCC’s Professional Development Building to be co-located with staff from the BizHub, Institute for Entrepreneurship, and City of Charlotte Small Business Development Program. The M/W/SBE Office will continue to provide services from this location until the move to Freedom Mall, which is scheduled for 2009.

 

For more information, please contact Associate General Manager Michelle Lancaster.

 

 

The recruiting process for the vacant Human Resources Department Director position is underway. The executive recruitment firm of Waters-Oldani has been contracted by the County to manage this national recruiting effort. As a result, the position is posted on the Waters-Oldani website with links from the County’s online job posting. The position also is being advertised in several professional journals and other publications. The job description and requirements can be accessed online at www.watersconsulting.com/woer/apply.aspx?sid=114.

 

 

            --Harry L. Jones, Sr., County Manager