minhhs 07-05-22 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Roger Sykes, a CCBH representative, works to create healthy community programming with the board and supported smoke free parks as a great way to do so. He noted over 500 cities have similar ordinances, focusing on passive enforcement and improved signage. Councilmembers and Youth Council members discussed upcoming transitions on the Youth Council, as a new board will soon be elected to fill 15 seats on it. Youth Council members anticipate more discussion on the matter and had previously discussed an educational timeframe for the ordinance. Chair Kepple and Councilmember Baker expressed a willingness to work with the Youth Council to draft legislation on a park smoking ban. Motion by Chair Kepple, seconded by Councilmember Baker to receive and file the communication. All in favor. Motion passed. A member of the public engaged in a brief dialogue on the smoking age and its enforcement with Director Corrigan and Mr. Novickis. ORDINANCE 19-2022 -AN ORDINANCE to take effect immediately provided it receives the affirmative vote of at least five(5) members of Council, or otherwise to take effect and be in force after the earliest period allowed by law, amending Section 149.25 Paid Parental Leave and Childbirth Leave of the Lakewood Codified Ordinances to remove the eligibility requirement of twelve or more months of service with the City of Lakewood. (1st read & referred to HHS 06/06/22; 2nd reading 6/21/22) Director Dillinger gave an overview of the parental leave benefit, noting that it has been used quite a bit since its inception. Previously an individual was required to have a year of employment with the city prior to receiving the benefit. However, in evaluating the benefit, the administration is seeking to withdraw the 12-month requirement and have employees be eligible on their date of hire. Data from 2018 through 2020 was used to examine the proposal. Chair Kepple asked what would happen if an employee joined Lakewood's workforce, goes on parental leave, and does not return. Director Dillinger indicated that nothing would happen to the individual. Ms. Kepple continued to ask what other organizations or cities have implemented this benefit policy. It was noted that Newburgh Heights, the Franklin County Recorder's Office, and the State of Ohio have all implemented it, however the state's benefit period is not a full 12 weeks and the employee only receives 70% of her pay. Councilmember Shachner asked if a reduced benefit in the first year was considered prior to this legislation. Director Dillinger stated that only 1 employee has been eligible during her first year of employment and that the numbers utilizing the benefit will vary. Councilmember Marx asked if the benefit could help the city attract higher quality employees. Director Dillinger noted that it can help attract a higher caliber of applicant and will contribute to the employee staying with the city for a while. She then shared personal insights into her past employment experiences during pregnancy. Ms. Marx expressed support for the ordinance. 2