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www.pinellascounty.org/hr/publications.htmAugust 2020 • Vol.48 No.8
COVID-19: Stay Vigilant
Wear a mask - correctly.
Practice socialdistancing.
Avoid crowds.
Wash your hands often.
Clean and disinfect.
Treat yourself andothers kindly.
This is an extraordinary time. Keep up the good work. Follow CDC guidelines.
Recent COVID-19 UpdatesBe sure to review the Employee COVID-19 web page regularly as the situation changes and new infor-mation and resources become available. Recent updates have been made to the following:
FAQs for Employees
UnitedHealthcare Testing Locations
Families First Act FAQs
Families First Act Examples
INSIDE 2 New Tax Collector and Property
Appraiser Offices Open in St. Petersburg
3 Ask HR / Trades & Vocational Talent Info Session / COVID-19 Updates
4 Easy as 1, 2, 3! / Tobacco Cessation Programs Go Virtual
5 Employee Communications Survey Report
6 Clear the Shelters / Become an Election Worker
7 NEW COVID-19 Resources
8 Tampa Bay WaterWise Program
9 What If Knowledge Was a Super Power?
10 EAC: Kevin Connelly / Help Improve Lives and Become a Mentor
11 Service Anniversaries
12 Retirements / Record Keeper
13 Promotions / Take the Census Before September 30
14 Welcome Aboard! / Consumer Corner: Auto Warranty Scam
15 Thanks to the Employees of the Clerk Reassigned to the SOE
16 EXTRA
Solid Waste employees sent us their maskies. Clockwise from top left: Deb Bush, Josh Lynch, Daniel Mangialomini, and Mike Reilly.
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The PenA monthly publication by
Pinellas County Human ResourcesMary L. Sault, Editor
Would you like to put something in the Pen?
Let us know by the first of the month. And be sure to include photos!
BLOOD DRIVESYou can schedule an
appointment at www.oneblooddonor.org.
Also view the blood donation web page.
To view blood donation FAQs, process, and testimonials, visit OneBlood.
Many blood drives have been postponed due to COVID-19 but there is a great need for
donations. To confirm or make an appoint-ment, contact One Blood directly at
www.oneblood.org.
It’s hard not to feel anxious right now with social distancing, masks and isolation. We miss our old “normal” life and the daily connection of coworkers and friends.
This blog is for you!
Connect with other employees to share COVID-19 stories and support.
Link: www.pinellascounty.org/hr/blog
Blog Guide for instructions on how to create a post.
View the more than 220 posts from fellow employees with topics like:
Coping and managing stress COVID-19 stories and photos Wellness tips Staying motivated COVID-19 support and resources
... and much more.
New Pinellas Tax Collector and Property Appraiser Offices Open in St. Petersburg
A new, 40,000-square-foot facility opened in St. Petersburg this week housing offices for the Tax Collector and the Property Appraiser.
The full-service Tax Collector office, located on the first floor at 2500 34th St. N. in St. Petersburg, provides more than 8,000 appointments each month and offers all Tax Collector services in one location, a great benefit for Pinellas residents. The new facility enhances the customer experi-ence by offering increased privacy, updated technology, and expanded services—including a closed-course driving range and a self-service vehicle registration kiosk. The driving course is designed to handle two tests simultane-ously while the kiosk enables customers to renew vehicle registrations on-demand without an appointment.
The previous location at 1800 66th St. N. in St. Petersburg, is permanently closed.
“The needs of our customers outgrew what that facility could offer,” said Tax Collector Charles W. Thomas. “It was time for an upgrade and we are thrilled to finally be able to offer all our services under one roof, improving the overall customer experience, for our South County residents.”
The Pinellas County Property Appraiser is pleased to join with the Tax Collector in opening the brand-new public service center. Located on the second floor of the new building, the Property Appraiser’s Office can better serve residents through face-to-face customer service as well as virtual meeting break-out rooms within a facil-ity centrally located to serve all in South Pinellas. Ad-ditionally, the new facility includes training rooms (also equipped with virtual technology) to ensure that apprais-ers throughout the county now have a central location to receive continuing education to hone their skills in order to better serve the public and promote public under-standing of the appraisal process.
“I’m excited that this facility will allow us to continue to uphold the office’s mission to provide courteous, knowl-edgeable, and efficient customer service—particularly as the Notice of Proposed Property Taxes appear in mail-boxes starting August 25th”, said Property Appraiser Mike Twitty.
The new facility has various protective measures in place including barriers at workstations and customer service counters, hand sanitizing stations, face coverings, and social distancing.
From press release August 14, 2020
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Q. Does Pinellas County offer any type of assistance in writing a will?
A. Our EAP provider, Optum, offers employees and retirees access to customized legal forms, such as wills, advance directives, durable power of attorney for finances, HIPAA authorizations, and many other common legal documents. The Benefits team has tested the process and it’s similar to using a service like Turbo Tax to prepare an income tax filing. Their system walks the user through each step.
Per Optum, “Each legal document is customized for Florida and is available for all 50 states.”
To reach this legal resource online, start at www.liveandworkwell.com and either register or use our access code PINELLAS. Select Legal from the Financial & Legal tab, and scroll down to Highlighted Resources.
A legal consultation is also available as well as Me-diation services. You may also create an advanced medical directive, also known as a “living will”. You may call Optum with any questions or if you need assistance. Their toll-free telephone number is (866) 248-4096.
Q. What is the time frame for using funeral leave?
A. Personnel Rule #4 outlines Funeral Leave but does not provide for a time frame in which Funeral Leave must be used. Situations can vary significantly regarding when time is needed due to religious customs, time it takes to make funeral arrangements, travel arrangements, and other circumstances. We encourage use of good judge-ment, empathy, and understanding to try to ac-commodate requests for funeral leave whenever possible during what can be a very difficult and challenging time. Employees should speak with their supervisors about their situation to find out if their specific needs can be accommodated with-in the business needs of their department.
Automotive Construction Electrical HVAC Equipment operations Facility operations Facility maintenance Plumbing Transportation System operations
At Pinellas County Government, we have over 400 trades and vocational positions in a variety of departments.
Do you know someone who may be interested in entering a trade or continuing their work in a trade? Tell them about the Trades & Vocational Tal-ent Info Session and help them take the first step on the path to a new career.
Participants will learn about our outstanding ben-efits, and how to join our growing team. Many of our jobs include a promotional career ladder.
Pinellas County Government representatives from the following departments will talk about their positions:
Facilities and Real Property Fleet Management Parks and Conservation Resources Public Works Utilities
Registration is required. Register Now
Use the email confirmation instructions to join us by computer, tablet or phone.
The Pinellas County Trades & Vocational Talent Info Session is August 18
Web pages to help you stay up-to-date and to help you cope with COVID-19. Coronavirus (COVID-19) for County Employees
Pinellas County COVID Response and Recommendations
Employee Blog
Resources from Employee Benefits
FAQs for Employees
Families First Coronavirus Response Act FAQs
COVID-19 Testing Locations in Pinellas County
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Florida Department of Health
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YOUR TOTAL REWARDSHealth ● Wellness ● Retirement ● Compensation
Benefits Partners
DENTALCigna(800) 244-6224 www.mycigna.com
EMPLOYEE ASSISTANCE PROGRAM (EAP)Optum(866) 248-4096 liveandworkwell.com
FLEXIBLE SPENDING ACCOUNT (FSA)WageWorks/HealthEquity(877) 924-3967 www.wageworks.com
HEALTH SAVINGS ACCOUNT (HSA) Optum Bank(800) 791-9361 www.optumbank.com
LIFE INSURANCEStandard Insurance Company(855) 290-9479 www.standard.com
MEDICAL/BEHAVIORAL/MENTAL HEALTHUnitedHealthcare(888) 478-4752 www.myuhc.com
PRESCRIPTIONExpress Scripts(866) 544-9221 www.expressscripts.com
VISIONDavis Vision(800) 999-5431 www.davisvision.com
Take Care of Yourself
The Know Your Benefits Series features benefits programs you need to know and understand so you can make the right choices for you and your family.
In the August To Your Health newsletter, you will find:
The Four Pillars of Well-Being
Maintain a Healthy Immune System
Living Paycheck to Purpose Virtual Financial Empowerment Program
It’s Time! Back to School Tips ... and more.
What is the Tobacco Premium?Employees on the Pinellas County health plan who use tobacco must complete a qualified tobacco cessation program between August 1, 2020 and March 31, 2021 or be subject to a $500 tobacco premium beginning April 1, 2021. The premium does not apply to spouses.
If you successfully complete a qualified tobacco cessation program, the tobacco premium will no longer apply.
NEW! Due to COVID-19, Tobacco Free Florida offers virtual Group Quit, a free support group led by a trained specialist. You need to attend all 4 one-hour classes in the 4-part series. (NOTE: The one-day Tools to Quit classes do not qualify.)
To register for any of the Zoom virtual class series listed below, call the local Tobacco Free Florida agency, Area Health Education Center, at (813) 929-1000.
Wednesdays, 7:00 to 8:00 a.m. August 19 - September 9, 2020
Tuesdays, 12:00 to 1:00 p.m. September 8 - 29, 2020
View other qualified options available to you.
Tobacco Cessation Programs Go Virtual
Easy as 1, 2, 3!Only the Rally Health Survey is Required in 2020 to Save You $500 in 2021
Even though the biometric screening is waived for 2020, employees must still complete the Rally Health Survey before December 31, 2020 to qualify for the 2021 preferred premium.
See the Rally Quick Guide.
1. Log in 2. Take the
survey3. Hit submit
Thursdays, 8:00 to 9:00 a.m. September 17 - October 8, 2020
Tuesdays, 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. September 29 - October 20, 2020
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2020 Employee Communications Survey Results The Employee Communications Survey concluded on July 31. More employees responded this year than last – a total of 1,008 which is over 30% of our workforce. Thank you!
98% of employees have regular access to a computer on the job and check work email daily.
The best way to get information from HR continues to be email. This medium increased in popularity to 88% from 81%. The Pen, the To Your Health, the HR website and home mailers remain popular while face-to-face was rated lower than last year, likely because of COVID-19.
HR will continue to use all avenues of communication available to reach the most employees.
Most respondents (58%) think the current platforms for communication are sufficient. Additional methods suggested were:
mobile apps text messaging social media for employees
In answer to the question “If not on the computer, where do you get your information?” a big takeaway was that 74% of employees rely on their supervisors to get important infor-mation. This is a significant increase from 55% in 2019. Another interesting fact is that 267 people (26%) did not answer this question.
In 2019, in response to the Employee Communications Survey, HR introduced Supervisor Toolkits for critical matters such as Annual Enrollment, the Employee Voice Survey, the Drug-Free Workplace requirement, and the pandemic. We will continue to create Supervisor Toolkits to ensure that supervisors have the information they need to help their employees.
Topics of greatest interest ranking remains about the same:
1. Benefits2. Classification & Compensation3. Retirement4. Employment5. Wellness6. Learning
An additional question this year was “During the pandemic, do you think the informa-tion provided regarding COVID-19 via the County employee web page and emails was sufficient?”
74% responded that they strongly agreed or agreed.
12% disagreed or strongly disagree. 14% were not sure.
We will continue to update you on COVID-19 info with the employee web page and email blasts as appropriate.
HR Employee Communications continues to consider alternate additional means of communications to all employees. Factors to consider are whether they will be used (popularity), cost of software, and staffing of an additional program.
THANK YOU for completing the survey and providing needed feedback. Two-way com-munication is important. As a reminder, we welcome all feedback and questions. Send them to: [email protected].
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Pets of the MonthContributed by Pinellas County Animal Services (PCAS)
Pinellas County Animal Services, 12450 Ulmerton Road, Largo. View more adoptables at www.pinellascounty.org/animalser-vices/Adoption_Center.htm.
1-year-old mixed-breed, red, male.
Aston is a happy boy and so full of life. He will definitely brighten your day. He seems to be new to this “leash thing” but he is smart and wants to please. Aston would be great for a family with an active lifestyle or as an adven-ture partner. He is playful, fun to
watch and likes toys. He appears house trained, gently accepts treats, and is friendly around people and other dogs. Do you think you can open your heart and home to this sweet boy? Please stop by the shelter and meet him today.
3-year-old Calico, female.
We know exactly how this beau-tiful girl Amber got her name. She is a lovely tortoiseshell with the blending colors of the gem-stone. This girl has big sultry yellow eyes which will often talk to her special human showing how much she adores them.
Quiet and shy, Amber has an easygoing personality and most likely would prefer a quiet calm home where she can be the center of attention. She would probably en-joy the pampered life of receiving a lifetime of petting and, in time may even enjoy a warm lap. With her daz-zling good looks Amber is seeking a role as a new feline companion in a comfy new home.
Pinellas County Animal Services is participating in Clear the Shelters which runs all month long. We are offering 50% off cat and kitten adoption fees for the entire month of August, which means adult cats are only $20 and kittens are $25.
Share with Friends and Family: Become an Election WorkerShare with friends and family this opportunity to earn money while helping your community. Become an Election Worker with Pinellas County Supervisor of Elections. Apply today at www.votepinellas.com/Election-Worker.
Election work can take many forms:
Poll Workers – Each poll worker is assigned to work at a specific polling location on Elec-tion Day. Poll workers must be available to set up their sites before the polls open and must remain at the polling place until after the polls close.
Early Voting Workers – Before all state and fed-eral elections, the Supervisor of Elections staffs 3 to 5 early voting sites for voters who wish to cast their ballots prior to Election Day. Early voting can begin from 10 to 15 days before the election and last from 8 to 14 days. Early voting hours range from 8 to 12 hours a day.
Other Election Work – The Elections Office relies on temporary election workers to
help answer phones in a Call Center environ-ment
open mail ballots sort and count ballots for the post-election
audit process petitions for future ballot contests
and initiatives perform other clerical tasks in support of
upcoming elections.
Learn more about becoming an Election Worker.
The Pinellas County Supervisor of Elections is taking all necessary precautions including social distancing and additional cleaning protocols to ensure the safety of the election workers and voters.
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You can still view the recording. Amy covers topics like masks and how to navigate through activities of daily life.
This presentation breaks things down in easy-to-under-stand terms and outlines smart COVID-19 practices.
Nurse Amy gives both the clinical and the practical information that can make life a bit more manageable and it’s less than half an hour long.
“I thought I knew all about prevention but I learned so many new things! Highly recommend!”
- Anonymous viewer
Missed Nurse Amy’s Webinar Strategies for the Prevention of COVID-19?
Living Paycheck to PurposeFREE Virtual Financial Empowerment ProgramFinancial tools are not enough. Financial empowerment begins with a goal, a plan and motiva-tion. Take control of your financial journey with this 4-part workshop.
Each topic is one hour long.
Topic 1: Create Your Vision of Financial Success
Topic 2: Develop Your Financial Plan
Topic 3: Take Control of Your Paycheck
Topic 4: Build Wealth and Live Your Best Life
Reduce your money-related stress and address the root cause of your financial troubles. View the flyer for more information and to register. The next workshop begins August 22.
"As the COVID-19 crisis lingers on, learning about COVID Fa-tigue and the latest information on testing gave me valuable information and tools. Tools that I can use both for myself and to be a resource and encouragement for my co-workers. Nurse Amy and Jane continue to bring a bit of sunshine and laughter to us while delivering important information!"
Tina Jablon, Wellness Champion, Forward Pinellas
At a recent Wellness Champion meeting, Wellness Manager Jane Grannis presented on “COVID Fatique” and the Champions recom-mend this presentation to all employees.
Register for the one-half-hour COVID-19 virtual Lunch ‘n’ Learn COVID Fatigue August 21 or 26.
Back by popular demand, UHC Nurse Liaison Amy Hertog will host another virtual event, the COVID-19 Lunch ‘n’ Learn COVID Testing where she will help you navigate the options and testing sites, August 24 and 27.
View the flyer and register for one or both.
Sign Up for a COVID-19 Lunch ‘n’ Learn
We have many resources for parents in the parenting section on our COVID-19 website:
They include:
Structure for School at Home (from our EAP website, LiveandWorkWell.com)
Back to School Checklists
A Parent Resource Guide
COVID-19: Parent Resources
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Looking for the Right School and Wondering How to Pay for it?
The Employee Assistance Program offers educational resources for a child starting
preschool, going off to college, or anywhere in between.
Visit www.pinellascounty.org/hr/EAP.
Pinellas County Utilities is Participating in the Tampa Bay WaterWise Program ... and So Can YOU!
Tampa Bay Water Wise is a partnership of local govern-ments working to reduce water demands in the Tampa Bay region. Our mission is to help individuals, families, and orga-nizations alike discover ways to lower their water use and make positive changes to our environ-ment.
Tampa Bay Water Wise offers rebates for a variety of water-saving initiatives. We strongly encourage homeowners in the Tampa Bay region to consider doing their part for water con-servation — and earn some cash along the way.
Residential Rebates Include:
•High-Efficiency Toilet Rebate
The Tampa Bay Water Wise program rewards homeowners with rebates for high-efficiency, EPA WaterSense-approved toi-lets. These models use at most 1.28 gallons of water per flush — a huge improvement over older toilets, which use 3.5 gallons per flush or more.
o Existing toilets must use 3.5 gallons per flush or more. These may exist in homes built before 1995.
o Applicants must be potable water utility customers of participating cities or counties.
o Rebates are offered within 90 days of toilet purchase.
o A maximum of 2 rebates is avail-able per home for the lifetime of the utility account.
•Shallow Well Rebate
In some locations, a shallow well can be installed on a homeowner’s prop-erty. It provides nonpotable water for use on lawns and landscapes. Tampa Bay Water Wise provides rebates for shallow wells to eligible customers in participating cities and counties.
To qualify, homes must meet a range of criteria, including: the home must be at least 2 years old, and not have access to reclaimed water. Shallow wells must be installed by a licensed contractor certified by the Southwest Florida Water Management District.
• Smart Irrigation Controller Rebate
Homeowners can lower their water use by installing a smart irrigation controller on their property.
These devices monitor moisture on your property and limit irrigation and sprinkler use to dry periods.
Tampa Bay Water Wise offers rebates for eligible homeowners that install certain smart controllers on their
Save Water and Save Money!
property. To qualify, devices must be approved by EPA WaterSense (ET Controllers) or included on Tampa Bay Water Wise’s list of approved soil moisture sensors.
Visit Tampa Bay Water Wise online to see if you’re eligible and apply www.tampabaywaterwise.org.
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HR’s Organizational and Talent Development team (OTD) is here to help employees keep up with the fast pace of a world where new skills not only need to be continually added, they need to be continually developed. Em-ployees increasingly want to be responsible for their own learning and understand that keeping their skills updated is vital to their own career journey.
To make learning just a little more accessible, OTD has enlisted a group of employees – a network of “Learning Heroes” - who work side-by-side with you and with OTD. Learning Heroes are natu-ral “learners” who are always on and ready to adapt. They are relationship builders who are now entrusted with encouraging fellow
employees to participate and share learning with each other. See this list of Learning Heroes and get to know them. If you don’t see your depart-ment listed, consider becoming a Learning Hero yourself and reach out to OTD.
What Learning Heroes Can Do for YouThey’ll help you:
Appreciate and take advantage of learning opportunities
Provide encouragement and support
Share your feedback with OTD
Virtual Learning Hero Kick Off EventOver 80 employees participated in the Learning Hero Virtual Event on July 24. Interim HR Director Moe Freaney welcomed the participants and gave an overview of HR’s mis-sion and goals.
The OTD team reviewed the learn-ing tools and opportunities offered to employees including the learning resource pages and leadership de-velopment opportunities. They also
What If Knowledge Was a Super Power?
Pinellas County supports a learning culture for all employees. For more information, visit www.pinellascounty.org/hr/learning or call the Human Resources Organizational & Talent Development (OTD) team at 464-3796.
www.pinellascounty.org/hr/ulearnit
The Savvy Learner‘The illiterate of the 21st century will not be those
who cannot read and write, but those who cannot learn,
unlearn, and relearn.’
–Alvin Toffler
outlined the expectations of Learning Heroes.
Paul Valenti, Director of the Office of Human Rights, spoke about OTD’s partnership in anti-harassment and diversity and inclusion learning opportunities, and about the im-portance of taking advantage of the Tuition Reimbursement Program.
Why is it important to keep the learning muscles active even during this very stressful time?Learning IS about career enhance-ment not JUST about your career. Learning helps you stay sharp and engaged in your own development. Learning can help you cope with challenges at work, at home and in your personal life.
ULearnIT is one example of the many resources available. UlearnIT offers many types of courses from leader-ship to managing your stress. The
The OTD team continues to develop virtual courses – view the Learning Opportunities Calendar to see what’s coming up. Contact OTD or your Learning Hero to find out how you can make knowledge your super power!
Introducing OTD’s Learning Heroes!
“Each class is full of very helpful information that can be used to help me be the best leader I can be at every level. There really is nothing to lose and a ton of information to gain.”
Nicole KnopfCustomer Service Specialist
Utilities
Recorded testimonial on Learning Paths played during Learning Hero Event.
Human Resources offers virtual learning opportunities for your convenience and safety during the COVID-19 pandemic. The courses are presented using Zoom or Microsoft Teams virtual plat-forms.
View the Virtual Learning page.
Virtual Learning
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Would You Like to Help Improve Lives and Become a Mentor?
Hello everyone, my name is Kevin Connelly and I am a proud member of Pinellas County’s Employees' Advisory Council (EAC). I have the distinct
pleasure of representing the phenom-enal folks that make up the Other Appointing Authorities Group which includes Business
Technology Services, County Attorney’s Office, Forward Pinellas, Human Resources and the Office of Human Rights.
I started my Pinellas County adventure 13 years ago as a member of the Information Technology Department now known as BTS. I enjoyed my role within BTS and being a resource that people with computer problems could turn to for help.
I became a member of Human Resources in 2015 and it has been a growth opportunity for me every day since. As a mem-ber of Human Resources, I began to see the County in a completely different light. Instead of working in a cubicle fixing machines, I had the opportunity to interact with people who had real concerns about every aspect of their jobs, and I wanted to fix those concerns. I began to explore ways that I could have a bigger impact on the day-to-day lives of my colleagues and, as luck would have it, in January of 2018, the opportunity for me to join the EAC was presented to me.
I joined the EAC as a junior member of the council. During that first year I listened more than I spoke and was able to learn so much about the other groups that make up the EAC. I heard how the concerns their people have were very similar to the ones I heard as representa-tive for my group and I wanted to work together with all of them to make things right. Due to the current pandemic, it has been tough to meet but, rest assured, we are all still working hard for all of you.
As we begin to return to our worksites and we emerge from this very crazy time, I am excited about again meeting with the other EAC representatives on a more regular basis to get all of you the solutions that you count on us for.
You all deserve our very best ef-forts. We all understand that the work we do affects many and it can sometimes be a difficult puzzle to figure out, so we ask for your patience as we meet and continue to count on your support now and in the future.
If you’d like the opportunity to help your colleagues, I’d encour-age you to research being either an EAC Representative or an EAC Delegate. There are openings now and even more openings coming for 2021 and beyond.
Kevin ConnellyHuman Resources
Organizational & Talent Development
“Building a Learning Culture, one class at a time”
Students are in need of mentors now more than ever! This school year, approved mentoring opportunities will look different but will be just as meaningful.
To preserve the health and safety of employees, students and families, men-toring activities that employees choose to participate in while on County time must be virtual, until further notice.
We encourage full-time employees in departments under the County Administrator to work with their su-pervisors to take advantage of the 90 minutes of paid Administrative Leave that is granted to them, each week, to participate in approved virtual mentoring activities.
No experience needed. You just need to be passionate about mentoring.
Check out Virtual Mentoring with Big Brothers Big Sisters.
View the Community Involvement web page on the intranet, or email Christine Covais at [email protected].
Want to learn more? Register for a 1 hour orientation session (virtual session in Zoom) August 20, 25, 27 or September 9.
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SERVICE ANNIVERSARIES
Unavailable for Photo
15 YEARS Catherine Bailey Noble.............................Tax Collector’s OfficeKaren Haggerty ...................................Clerk of the Circuit CourtSteve Harper .......................... Parks & Conservation ResourcesTimothy Hellijas .......................................................Public WorksNancy McKibben ................................... County AdministrationDonna Morahan .................................Clerk of the Circuit CourtKeith Siniff ...........................................Clerk of the Circuit CourtGlenn Weaver ...........................................................Public WorksErnest Williams ........................................................Public Works
10 YEARSDouglas Katez ............................................Tax Collector’s OfficeRobert Sullivan ........................... Business Technology Services 5 YEARSMatthew Bellefeuille ...............................................Public WorksLisa Brandes .......................................................Human ServicesRobert Butler ..................................................................... UtilitiesBrenda Coleman ............................Property Appraiser’s OfficeDylan Connelly ........................... Business Technology ServicesAzra Day ......................................................Tax Collector’s OfficeEkaterini Gerakios-Siren ...................................Human Services
30 YEARS
30 YearsFrederick Roose, Public Works
25 YearsAngel Clemente, Administrative Services
20 YearsLidell Golden, UtilitiesKevin Welch, Human Services
20 YEARS
Rawn Godwin ........................................ Administrative ServicesDaniel Johnson ........................................................Public WorksPeter Lundy ..............................................................Public WorksJonathan Marshall ...................................................Public WorksNabeehah McGill .............................................................. UtilitiesMichael Morgan .......................................................Public WorksNikolas Papadopoulos ............................................Public WorksPeter Pruett ..............................................................Public WorksSean Welch ...............................................................Public Works
3 YEARSErick Clayton ....................................................................... UtiltiesJason Cleland .................................................................... UtilitiesTerese Fisher Cocks ................... Business Technology ServicesMichael Harrington .................................................Public WorksSusan Hover .......................................... Administrative ServicesKelly Meek ............................................. Administrative ServicesRosana Modugno ...............................Clerk of the Circuit CourtCarola Santiago ...............................Property Appraiser’s OfficeJeffrey Shue .........................................Clerk of the Circuit CourtThomas Sterrett .................................... Administrative ServicesAndrea West ........................................... Supervisor of Elections
Denise RuckerSafety & Emergency Services
Barbara BermudezClerk of the Circuit
Court
John CarpenterPublic Works
James HewstonUtilities
Shana OberleBuilding &
Development Review Services
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RETIREMENTS
Over 33 Years James Kubek, Electrical/Mechanical Technician 3, Utilities/Dunn Water Reclamation Facility
Over 31 YearsJeff Withrow, HR Department Computer Support Specialist, Human Resources
Over 13 YearsJeffrey Schaefer, Endpoint Specialist, Business Technology Services/Operations
Retirees Unavailable for Photo
REPCO News
In recognition of current local government guidelines / directives for social distancing, masking and no group gatherings, REPCO meetings are cancelled until the guidelines / directives are relaxed to allow group meetings. For questions, contact Rudy Garcia at (813) 855-3466 or [email protected].
OVER 23 YEARS OVER 15 YEARS
THE RECORD KEEPERImaging Services and Electronic Records Storage Did you know that Records Management provides imaging services for qualifying projects? We are excited to work with you to develop a unique imaging and indexing strategy to support your business needs!
Our skilled imaging team can convert your paper records to digital format and store the records in AppXtender. Some of the benefits of using AppXtender are:
• Easy sharing of information
• Full range of content search and display capabilities
• End user training and IT support
• Destruction workflow
• Extensive security model based on authorized user privileges
If you are interested in learning more about imaging services and electronic records storage, please contact Daniel Magelnicki in Records Management at 464-4406.
Andrew SquiresSection Manager
Public Works/Environmental Management
Robin Gwaltney-HarrisCVB Sales Representative
Convention & Visitors Bureau
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PromotionsPromotions listed are for July 2020.
Forward Pinellas
Public WorksNatasha Dickrell .................................................Envir Spec 3 Bunita Kimm ........................... Procurement Analyst Coord Matthew Laverdure ...........................................Spray Tech 2
Safety & Emergency Services Dawn Barclay ..............................................Acctg & Fin Tech
UtilitiesWilliam Jardine ............................... Wtr/Wstewtr Plt Oper 3 Thomas Keith, Jr. ....................................... Util Maint Spec 3
Rebecca Stysly .....................................Fin & Acctg Analyst 1
Melissa Dondero ............................Insp Gen/Chf Audit ExecCorey Franz............................................................ Rec Spec 2Tina Gasperson ................................................... Fis Rec SpecAnna Klement ............................................................Crt Clk 2Diana Marin ........................................................ Fis Rec SpecRosana Modugno ................................................. Rec Spec 2Ruth O’Bier .......................................................... Fis Rec SpecDoreen Quondamatteo ....................................... Rec Spec 2Markell Riley .......................................................... Rec Spec 2Eva Wigal .......................................................... Fin Opns Spec
Property Appraiser’s Office
Jay Allen .................................................Asst Dir Comcl ApprMitchell Alles ............................................. PAO Appraiser’s 3Mark Becker ..................................................Dir Comcl ApprBrian Lasher .............................................. PAO Appraiser’s 3
Clerk of the Circuit CourtBoard of County Commissioners
Take the 2020 Census Before Sept. 30 at My2020Census.gov
Have you been counted in the 2020 Census yet? This quick survey can be taken safely from home — online or by phone — and your response will ensure billions of dollars in federal funds stay in Florida and Pinellas County for the next 10 years.
Census data are used to determine political repre-sentation and to guide how hundreds of billions of federal dollars are distributed for the things we all rely on, like health care, education, roads, and more. This information also helps us prepare and recover from emergencies. Now, more than ever, we need to make sure everyone is counted.
As of early August, only 63.7% of Pinellas house-holds had been counted in the 2020 Census, and the U.S. Census Bureau recently moved the dead-line for the census a month earlier to September 30. An undercount could cost our communities billions of dollars for vital programs. In fact, for each person who was not counted in the 2010 Census, Florida lost $946 in federal funding — a total of $20 billion in losses, according to recent news reports.
Commissioner Kenneth T. Welch has been work-ing with a diverse coalition of County employees, local governments, nonprofits, commu-nity organizations, churches and businesses to spread the word about the census, especially in areas that have been historically undercounted. You can learn more about the Complete Count Committee here.
Over the coming weeks, Census Bureau workers will visit homes that have not yet responded, wearing masks and practicing social distancing. You can take the census now to avoid a knock at the door – encourage your friends, family and neighbors to do the same. Remember: Census responses are secure, confidential and protected by law.
Take the census today at My2020Census.gov or by calling (844) 330-2020. Let’s #MakePinellasCount!
Contributed by Marketing & Communications
Have you seen the “How are we doing?” link on HR’s website and emails? Take this quick anony-mous Customer Satisfaction Survey whenever you contact Human Resources.
Let us know: Did you get what you need in a timely manner? What do you think we can do to improve? We want to hear from you to help us serve you better.
HR Wants Your Feedback
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Welcome Aboard!New employees listed are for July 2020.
Property Appraiser’s Office
Judy Breadon ...............................................Ofc Spec 2
County AttorneyMatthew Tolnay ..................................... Asst Co Atty 1
Raymond DiPasquale ..........................Prog Analyst 3
Human ServicesYvette Clanton ...........................Admin Sup Spec 1
Parks & Conservation ResourcesChantel Dorsey ...................................... Ofc Spec 1Toni Steel ..................................................... Ofc Asst
Public WorksSean Bennett ............................................... Maint 2Brandon Bomar ......................................... Maint 2Loman Dorsey ................................... Spray Tech 1Anita Khounevixay .......... Survey & Mapping AsstPaul Kirkland .............................................. Maint 1Daniel Nedvidek ............................Env Prog Mgr 3Joel Smith .................................................... Maint 1Anita Wang .....................................................Engr 2Zachary Westfall .................................... Enir Spec 3
Real Estate ManagementJason Hayden ...................................... Electrician 1
UtilitiesRichard Desgrosiellier .........................Meter Rdr 1Jermeil Douse ......................................Meter Rdr 1Daniel Hryniewich.............Wtr/Wstwtr Oper Trne
Human Resources
Jennifer Bryant ..........................................Dep Tax ColBriana Ford ...........................................Cust Svcs TechTiffany Ryals ..........................................Cust Svcs TechJacob Smith ...........................................Cust Svcs TechSean Stewart .........................................Cust Svcs TechLaurie Talerico ......................................Cust Svcs Tech Ashley Wesley-Loyd ..............................Cust Svcs Tech
Board of County Commissioners
Tax Collector’s Office
Consumer Corner
Auto Warranty Scam
From Pinellas County Consumer Protection
It doesn’t matter if you have an existing vehicle warranty or even own a car. You’ve probably received a phone call or letter notifying you that your vehicle’s warranty is about to expire and urging you to purchase an extend warranty. Consumers are warned not to fall for it.
This is what’s referred to as the Auto Warranty Scam. Scammers disguise themselves as legitimate companies to trick you out of your money and personal information. But these warranties are not associated with your manufacturer or any dealerships. Many of the calls are automated-robocalls, but others involve real people. To appear more legitimate, scammers use your vehicle’s specific information, like the make, model and year. High pressure tactics are used to fool you into believing it’s a one-time offer or without the warranty you’ll pay thousands of dollars in auto repairs, when the truth is you’re conned into paying hundreds to thousands of dollars for an inadequate or phony warranty. Here are a few tips to help protect you from getting scammed.
If you receive a such call don’t panic. Just hang up.
Don’t be fooled if the caller has information about you. Scammers can easily obtain such information online from data collection companies or through data breaches.
No matter how believable, never provide personal or financial information to an unsolicited request.
If you’re concerned that your existing vehicle warranty is expiring, then refer to your paperwork and contact that company directly.
For more information on scams, to check out a company or to file a complaint, contact Pinellas County Consumer Protection directly at (727) 464-6200 or visit www.pinellascounty.org/consumer/tips.htm.
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From Ken Burke, Clerk of the Circuit Court and Comptroller:
The decline in revenue to the Clerk’s office due to the pandemic has caused a severe budget problem. Thanks to Supervisor of Elections Julie Marcus for partnering with the Clerk’s office to temporarily employ 60 Clerk employees to help with the primary and general election. This helped with her staffing problem while providing budget relief to the Clerk’s office.
Although very thankful to the Supervisor, this has been tremendously disruptive for the Clerk employees reassigned. Their normal work life has been upended. I am very grateful for their good attitude and representing the office so well with their temporary positions. We are looking forward to welcoming them back to the Clerk’s office after the election.
Thanks to the Employees of the Clerk Reassigned to the Supervisor of Elections
The Pen thanks Tim Closterman and Evan Liss at the SOE for the photos.
L-R: Jill Bird, Mona Budaszewski, Christine Demato (tall with faceshield on), Carla Benson (bangs only), Anna Klemment (receiving card from Mike Monahan), Justin Gross Cynthia “Cindy” Sizemore
L-R: Mona Budaszewski, Stephen Kaczmarek, Anna Klement
Judy Maslar (second from left), Natalie Castro, Doreen Quondamatteo, Maryann Londo (second from right)
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Employee and family news including kudos, weddings, births, graduations, memorials, and classified ads. Send your news to [email protected] or call 464-3367.
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Gone but notForgottenThe Pen is saddened to report the passing
of the following retirees:
Classified Ads
Jerome “Jerry” Boies, 77, of Largo, passed away July 11. He retired in 2014 from the Parks, South District/Boca Ciega after 10 years of service. Read his obituary.
Francis Burger, 73, of New Port Richey passed away July 27. He retired in 2011 from Utilities, Keller Pump Station after 23 years of service. Read his obituary.
Doris Cesta, 90, of Clearwater, passed away July 23. She retired from Printing Services in 1999. Read her obituary.
Antoinette “Dolly” Carro, 94, of Largo, passed away August 9. She retired in 1988 from the then Management Informa-tion Services after 16 years of service. Read her obituary.
Robert Rouse, 72, of St. Petersburg, passed away July 2. He retired in 2014 from Utilities, South Cross Bayou WWTP after 34 years of service. Read his obituary.
Acy Touchton, 81, of Tarpon Springs, passed away August 2. He retired in 2005 from the Highway Department/North District, after 33 years of service. Read his obituary.
Free to a good home
Two Nat Geo collections, late 90’s. Email [email protected]
