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HomeMy WebLinkAboutContract 41520 (2)PROFFSSIOE'ML SERVICES AGR CIPI SECRETARY rfl ; 3ACT NO._ `` -f:IIUIERIT This PROFESSIONAL SERVICES A G RI=FRIIENT ("Agreement") is made and entered into by and between the CITY OF FORT WORTH (the "City"), a home rule municipal corporation of the State of Texas, acting by and through its duly authorized Assistant City Manager, and STRATEGIC COST CONTROL, INC., ("Consultant"), a Massachusetts corporation acting by and through its duly authorized Director of Operations. 1. SCOPE OF SERVICES. Consultant hereby agrees in good faith with due diligence to provide the City with unemployment compensation CUI") cost control and management services. In particular, Consultant shall perform the following: 1.0 Claims Management Consultant shall: 1.0.1 File a limited power of attorney with the Texas Workforce Commission directing the state to send all of City's unemployment claims and related material directly to Consultant. 1.0.2 Following receipt from the state of a notice of filing of an initial claim, load the clairn data into Consultant's claims management system and calendar all claim -related deadlines. 1.0.3 Identify any claims that duplicate previous entries and file and pursue protests with the state for duplicate claims. 1.0.4 Obtain payroll and human resources data from City and identify the location where the claimant worked. 1.0.5 If a claimant's social security number is not provided by the state, contact City to verify claimant's identity and status as a former City employee. 1.0.6 If claimant did not work for City, file and pursue a protest with the state contesting the claim as invalid and note such protest in Consultant's system to ensure that future charges will not be accepted. 1.0.7 Utilizing City payroll data, determine the City's actual liability for each claim under Texas law. 1.0.8 If wages are provided on a claim, verify that they are correct. 1.0.9 If any errors are discovered in the wages provided, file and pursue a protest with the state to ensure City receives an appropriate credit. M OFFICIAL RECORD Crint SECRETARY 0 WORTH, TX 1.0.10 Obtain all necessary separation information from City to investigate each claim thoroughly, making as many attempts as necessary to obtain this information. 1.0.11 Following investigation, make a recommendation to City's UI Coordinator (as designated by City's Human Resources Director) on whether to appeal a claim based on the facts of the case, state law, and City's monetary liability. 1.0.12 Confer with UI Coordinator to jointly determine whether to file an appeal. 1.0.13 Draft and file detailed appeals and requests for hearing. 1.0.14 Contact the UI Coordinator within 24 hours of receipt of notice that a hearing has been scheduled to identify the official representative of the claimant's former employing department and the appropriate fact witness(es), determine if a representative from Human Resources will be required as an additional witness, and ascertain whether the claimant has initiated any ancillary litigation. 1.0.15 Within 72 hours of receipt of notice that a hearing has been scheduled, hold a conference call with all witness(es) to (i) inform the witness(es) of the time and place for the hearing, (ii) identify any supporting documentation that witness(es) will need to produce prior to the hearing, and (iii) provide a procedural overview of the hearing process to help ensure the witness(es) is (are) comfortable with the process. 1.0.16 Within 24 hours of the initial conference call, provide the UI Coordinator, department representative, and each identified witness with a copy via electronic mail or facsimile of: (i) the packet of information titled "Notice of Telephone Hearing," a sample of which is attached as Exhibit A and (ii) the document "Preparing for an Unemployment Claim Hearing," a copy of which is attached to this Agreement as Exhibit B. NOTE Consultant's representative shall ensure that neither a claimant's social security number nor home address is included in the documents sent to the department representative and witnesses. The claimant's social security number and home address should appear in the documents sent to the City's UI coordinator. 1.0.17 At least 72 hours prior to the time scheduled for the hearing hold an in - person or telephonic conference between Consultant's assigned hearing representative and City witness(s) to (i) review the documentation provided under Section 1.0.16 and answer any witness questions; (ii) ensure that Consultant representative has all supporting documentation to be used at the hearing, including, but not limited to, the claimant s pre -termination and termination letters if applicable; (iii) assist witness(es) with preparing and targeting their testimony; (iv) advise witness(es) of anticipated questions; and (v) provide guidance on presenting testimony in an effective and targeted manner. RFP No.10-0531, Unemployment Compensation Administration, Page 2 of 13 1.0.18 At least 48 hours prior to the time scheduled for the hearing, pre -file all documentary evidence and supporting documentation that is to be introduced or discussed at the hearing. 1.0.19 Provide representation of the City at up to twenty (20) hearings annually, to include conducting cross-examination of the claimant; addressing questions to witness(es); and keeping the presiding officer(s) focused on the pertinent issues. 1.0.20 If Consultant's staff in their professional judgment suspect that the claimant is using the hearing process as a means of discovery for ancillary litigation, notify the Ul Coordinator and the City's Law Department of Consultant staff's concern and cooperate with the City in providing details of the UI case that may have bearing on the ancillary litigation. 1.0.21 If an unfavorable decision results from any protest or appeals proceeding, consult with UI Coordinator to clarify issues raised and provide City with a recommendation as to whether to pursue further administrative appeal or judicial review. 1.0.22 If an appeal is filed, prepare and file appeal briefs and draft a letter to the appellate body. 1.0.23 Continuously monitor both contested and uncontested claims to ensure on- going accuracy and file and pursue protests as needed 1.0.24 Maintain running balance of City charges and provide updates to City on request. 1.0.25 Use running balances and previous year's activity to estimate future ratios and balances and project future years' unemployment cost and provide such information to City on request 1.0.26 Audit on -going claims to ensure that account is charged accurately based on Consultant's independent calculation of liability under Section 10.0.7 and check for any charge errors, including, but not limited to: a. Charges in excess of weekly benefit amount b. Charges in excess of maximum potential liability c. Charges for disallowed weeks due to availability or monetary issues d. Charges for disallowed or non -charges claims e. Charges for claims favorably reversed at appeals level f. Charges that exceed partial entitlement 1.0.27 Generate an audit report and conduct an investigation for each error and file and pursue protests as needed. 1.0.28 Note the date that a charge -error protest is filed with the state, monitor state response, and follow up with state as needed to ensure timely resolution. RFP No.10-0531, Unemployment Compensation Administration, Page 3 of 13 1.0.29 Maintain running balance of outstanding charge -error protests and provide such information to City on request. 1.0.30 Compare charge totals on the state's quarterly and annual reports with the audited totals in Consultant's system and file and pursue appeals as needed. 1.0.31 Work with UI Coordinator and other assigned City staff to develop customized summary and detailed quarterly management reports tailored to City's operational structure and focused on City needs. At a minimum, each report will (i) reflect Consultant s independent calculation of actual liability for each claim under Section 10.0.7, (ii) list the exact amount of actual benefit charges, and (iii) include the date of the claim, reason for separation, and protest or appeal status 1.0.32 Monitor City's quarterly reports and annual reports for unfavorable trends and recommend solutions to address areas of concern. 1.0.33 On City s request, work with UI coordinator to identify City staff who require access to City's unemployment claims activity and provide identified staff with tailored, secure web -based access to current City information in Consultant's claims system. 1.0.34 Ensure that all of Consultant's employees assigned to represent the City are familiar with the City's disciplinary process and the document `Preparing for an Unemployment Claim Hearing," a copy of which is attached as Exhibit A, and with the hearing procedures of the Texas Workforce Commission. 1.0.35 In connection with all services, observe and comply with all deadlines and other procedural requirements under state law and administrative regulations. 1.1 Administration of the City's Unemployment Compensation Account Consultant shall: 1.1.1 Audit each claim account for accuracy of payments and compliance with statutory and regulatory requirements and prepare and file protests for any improper charges. 1.1.2 Audit periodic statements of benefit charges and administration fees invoiced by the Texas Workforce Commission and pursue explanation and/or correction of any discrepancies that are discovered. 1.1.3 Ensure correction of any errors in payments to claimants. 1.1.4 Maintain financial records of benefit charges and adjustments made to the City's unemployment compensation account. 1.2 Consulting and Advisory Services Regarding Administrative Procedures: RFP No.10-0531, Unemployment Compensation Administration, Page 4 of 13 Consultant shall: 1.2.1 Provide guidance, including examples, for developing methods and procedures to control and reduce unemployment compensation costs. 1.2.2 Provide City with up-to-date information on applicable laws and regulations and assist City in revising policies and procedures as needed. 1.2.3 Review City policies and procedures relating to regulatory compliance and minimizing of costs and recommend revisions and improvements. 1.2.4 Provide a written management report on a semi-annual and annual basis that describes the City's unemployment activity, provides a statistical analysis of costs, trends and projections, and reflects the results of Consultant's services. 1.2.5 Provide ad hoc reports to the City, in a form acceptable to the City, as requested by personnel in the Human Resources Department based on quarterly and annual reports of the Texas Workforce Commission regarding claims and costs pertaining to the City of Fort Worth. 1.3 Specialized Training: Consultant shall: 1.3.1 Provide orientation materials for personnel in the City's Human Resources Department assigned to facilitate processing of UI claims. 1.3.2 Provide at least one educational seminar for designated City personnel regarding operation, management and cost control measures related to the City's unemployment compensation responsibilities and liabilities. The work described in this "Scope of Services" section shall be referred to collectively for purposes of this Agreement as the "Services." 2. TERM. This Agreement shall encompass all services rendered by the Consultant to the City for a period of four years, beginning November 1, 2010 ending October 31, 2014, unless terminated earlier in accordance with the provisions of this Agreement. This Agreement may be renewed for one additional one-year period by written mutual consent of the parties. 3. COMPENSATION. As full and complete compensation for the Services, the City shall pay Consultant Four Thousand Two Hundred Dollars ($4,200.00) to be paid in two equal payments. The first payment shall be due within thirty (30) days of the date that this Agreement is fully executed. The second payment shall be due on or before May 31, 2011. Consultant shall not perform any services for the City beyond those specified by this Agreement RFP No.10-0531, Unemployment Compensation Administration, Page 5 of 13 unless the City has provided a signed, written request for such services and provided signed, written authorization of the additional costs for such services. The City shall not be liable for any expenses of Consultant not specified by this Agreement unless the City first approves such expenses in writing. If the City requires representation at additional hearings beyond those included as part of the Services, Consultant shall offer such representation at a rate of One Hundred and Twenty Five Dollars ($125 00) per additional hearing. The City is not requesting or authorizing payment for such additional representation at this time; separate signed, written documentation as described above is required for the City to engage Consultant to provide additional representation. 4. TERMINATION. 4.1. Written Notice. The City or Consultant may terminate this Agreement at any time and for any reason by providing the other party with 30 days written notice of termination. 4.2 Non -appropriation of Funds. In the event no funds or insufficient funds are appropriated by the City in any fiscal period for any payments due hereunder, City will notify Consultant of such occurrence and this Agreement shall terminate on the last day of the fiscal period for which appropriations were received without penalty or expense to the City of any kind whatsoever, except as to the portions of the payments herein agreed upon for which funds shall have been appropriated. 4.3 Duties and Obligations of the Parties. In the event that this Agreement is terminated prior to the expiration of the then -current term, the City shall pay Consultant for Services actually rendered up to the effective date of termination and Consultant shall continue to provide the City with services requested by the City and in accordance with this Agreement up to the effective date of termination. DISCLOSURE OF CONFLICTS AND CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION. Consultant hereby warrants to the City that Consultant has made full disclosure in writing of any existing or potential conflicts of interest related to Consultant's Services u nder this Agreement. In the event that any conflicts of interest arise after the Effective Date of this Agreement, Consultant hereby agrees immediately to make full disclosure to the City in writing Consultant for itself and its officers, agents and employees further agrees that it shall treat all information provided to it by the City as confidential and shall n ot disclose any such information to a third party without the prior written approval of the City. Consultant shall store and maintain City Information in a secure manner and shall n ot allow unauthorized users to access, modify, delete or otherwise corrupt City Information in any way. Consultant shall notify the City immediately if the security or integrity of any City information has been compromised or is believed to have been compromised RFP No.10-0531, Unemployment Compensation Administration, Page 6 of 13 Consultant understands and acknowledges that the City is a public entity under the laws of the State of Texas, and as such, the following information is subject to disclosure under Chapter 552 of the Texas Government Code, the Texas Public Information Act (the "Act") - 1) all documents and data held by the City, including information obtained from the Consultant and 2) information held by the Consultant for or on behalf of City that relates to the transaction of City's business and to which City has a right of access If the City receives a request for any documents that may reveal any of Consultant's proprietary information under the Act, or by any other legal process, law, rule, or judicial order by a court of competent jurisdiction, the City will utilize its best efforts to notify Consultant prior to disclosure of such documents The City shall not be liable or responsible in any way for the disclosure of information not clearly marked as "Proprietary / Confidential Information" or if disclosure is required by the Act or any other applicable law or court order In the event there is a request for such information, it will be the responsibility of Consultant to submit reasons objecting to disclosure. A determination on whether such reasons are sufficient will not be decided by the City, but by the Office of the Attorney General of the State of Texas, or by a court of competent jurisdiction. 6. RIGHT TO AUDIT. Consultant agrees that the City shall, until the expiration of three (3) years after final payment under this contract, have access to and the right to examine at reasonable times any directly pertinent books, documents, papers and records of the consultant involving transactions relating to this Contract at no additional cost to the City. Consultant agrees that the City shall have access during normal working hours to all necessary Consultant facilities and shall be provided adequate and appropriate work space in order to conduct audits in compliance with the provisions of this section. The City shall give Consultant reasonable advance notice of intended audits Consultant further agrees to include in all its subcontractor agreements hereunder a provision to the effect that the subcontractor agrees that the City shall until expiration of three (3) years after final payment of the subcontract, have access to and the right to examine at reasonable times any directly pertinent books documents, papers and records of such subcontractor involving transactions related to the subcontract, and further that City shall have access during normal working hours to all subcontractor facilities and shall be provided adequate and appropriate work space in order to conduct audits in compliance with the provisions of this paragraph. City shall give subcontractor reasonable notice of intended audits. 7. INDEPENDENT CONTRACTOR. It is expressly understood and agreed that Consultant shall operate as an independent contractor as to all rights and privileges granted herein, and not as agent, representative or employee of the City. Subject to and in accordance with the conditions and provisions of this Agreement, Consultant shall have the exclusive right to control the details of its operations and activities and be solely responsible for the acts and omissions of its officers, agents, servants, employees, contractors, and subcontractors Consultant acknowledges that the doctrine of respondeat superior shall not apply as between the City its officers, agents servants, and employees, and the Consultant, its officers, agents, employees, servants, contractors, and subcontractors. Consultant further agrees that RFP No.10-0531, Unemployment Compensation Administration, Page 7 of 13 nothing herein shall be construed as the creation of a partnership or joint enterprise between City and Consultant. 8. LIABILITY AND INDEMNIFICATION. CONSULTANT SHALL BE LIABLE AND RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY AND ALL PROPERTY LOSS, PROPERTY DAMAGE AND/OR PERSONAL INJURY, INCLUDING DEATH, TO ANY AND ALL PERSONS, OF ANY KIND OR CHARACTER, WHETHER REAL OR ASSERTED, TO THE EXTENT CAUSED BY THE NEGLIGENT ACT(S) OR OMISSIONS), MALFEASANCE OR INTENTIONAL MISCONDUCT OF CONSULTANT, ITS OFFICERS, AGENTS, SERVANTS, OR EMPLOYEES CONSULTANT COVENANTS AND AGREES TO, AND DOES HEREBY, INDEMNIFY, HOLD HARMLESS AND DEFEND THE CITY, ITS OFFICERS, AGENTS, SERVANTS AND EMPLOYEES, FROM AND AGAINST ANY AND ALL CLAIMS OR LAWSUITS FOR EITHER PROPERTY DAMAGE OR LOSS (INCLUDING ALLEGED DAMAGE OR LOSS TO CONSULTANT'S BUSINESS AND ANY RESULTING LOST PROFITS) AND/OR PERSONAL INJURY, INCLUDING DEATH, TO ANY AND ALL PERSONS, OF ANY KIND OR CHARACTER, WHETHER REAL OR ASSERTED, ARISING OUT OF OR IN CONNECTION WITH THIS AGREEMENT, TO THE EXTENT CAUSED BY THE NEGLIGENT ACTS OR OMISSIONS OR MALFEASANCE OF CONSULTANT, ITS OFFICERS, AGENTS, SERVANTS, OR EMPLOYEES. 9. ASSIGNMENT AND SUBCONTRACTING. Consultant may not assign or subcontract any of its duties, obligations, or rights under this Agreement without the prior written consent of the City. If the City grants consent to an assignment, the assignee shall execute a written agreement with the City and the Consultant under which the assignee agrees to be bound by the duties and obligations of Consultant under this Agreement. The Consultant and Assignee shall be jointly liable for all obligations under this Agreement prior to the assignment. If the City grants consent to a subcontract, the subcontractor shall execute a written agreement with the Consultant referencing this Agreement under which the subcontractor shall agree to be bound by the duties and obligations of the Consultant under this Agreement as such duties and obligations may apply. The Consultant shall provide the City with a fully executed copy of any such subcontract. 10. INSURANCE Consultant shall provide the City with certificate(s) of insurance documenting policies of the following minimum coverage limits that are to be in effect prior to commencement of any work pursuant to this Agreement: 10.1 Coverage and Limits (a) Commercial General Liability $ 500,000.00 Each Occurrence $1,000,000.00 Aggregate RFP No.10-0531, Unemployment Compensation Administration, Page 8 of 13 (b) Automobile Liability $1,000,000.00 Each accident on a combined single limit basis or $250 000 00 Bodily injury per person $500 000.00 Bodily injury per person per occurrence $100 000.00 Property damage Coverage shall be on any vehicle used by the Consultant, its employees, agents, representatives in the course of the providing Services under this Agreement. "Any vehicle" shall be any vehicle owned, hired and non -owned (c) Worker's Compensation Statutory limits Employer's liability $100,000.00 Each accident/occurrence $100,000.00 Disease - per each employee $500,000.00 Disease - policy limit This coverage may be written as follows: Workers' Compensation and Employers' Liability coverage with limits consistent with statutory benefits outlined in the Texas workers' Compensation Act (Art 8308 — 1.01 et seq. Tex. Rev. Civ. Stat.) and minimum policy limits for Employers' Liability of $100,000 each accident/occurrence, $500,000 bodily injury disease policy limit and $100,000 per disease per employee (d) Professional Liability (Errors & Omissions) $ 300,000.00 Each Claim Limit $1,000,000.00 Aggregate Limit Professional Liability coverage may be provided through an endorsement to the Commercial General Liability (CGL) policy, or a separate policy specific to Professional E&O Either is acceptable if coverage meets all other requirements. Coverage shall be claims - made, and maintained for the duration of the contractual agreement and for two (2) years following completion of Services provided An annual certificate of insurance shall be submitted to the City to evidence coverage. 10.2 Certificates. Certificates of Insurance evidencing that the Consultant has obtained all required insurance shall be delivered to the City prior to Consultant proceeding with any work pursuant to this Agreement. All policies shall be endorsed to name the City as an additional insured thereon, as its interests may appear. The term City shall include its employees, officers, officials, RFP No.10-0531, Unemployment Compensation Administration, Page 9 of 13 11. agent, and volunteers in respect to the contracted Services. Any failure on the part of the City to request required insurance documentation shall not constitute a waiver of the insurance requirement. A minimum of thirty (30) days notice of cancellation or reduction in limits of coverage shall be provided to the City. Ten (10) days notice shall be acceptable in the event of non-payment of premium. Such terms shall be endorsed onto Consultant's insurance policies. Notice shall be sent to the Risk Manager, City of Fort Worth 1000 Throckmorton, Fort Worth, Texas 76102, with copies to the City Attorney at the same address. COMPLIANCE WITH LAWS. ORDINANCES, RULES AND REGULATIONS. Consultant agrees to comply with all applicable federal, state, and local laws, ordinances, rules, and regulations. If the City notifies Consultant of any violation of such laws, ordinances, rules or regulations Consultant shall immediately desist from and correct the violation. 12. NON-DISCRIMINATION COVENANT. Consultant, for itself, its personal representatives, assigns, subcontractors, and successors in interest, as part of the consideration herein, agrees that in the performance of Consultant's duties and obligations hereunder, it shall not discriminate in the treatment or employment of any individual or group of individuals o n any basis prohibited by law. If any claim arises from an alleged violation of this n on-discrimination covenant by Consultant, its personal representatives, assigns, subcontractors, or successors in interest, Consultant agrees to assume such liability and to indemnify and defend the City and hold the City harmless from such claim. 13. NOTICES Notices required pursuant to the provisions of this Agreement shall be conclusively determined to have been delivered when (1) hand -delivered to the other party, its agents, e mployees, servants or representatives, (2) delivered by facsimile with electronic confirmation of the transmission, or (3) received by the other party by United States Mail, registered, return receipt requested, addressed as follows: To The CITY: City of Fort Worth Attn: Karen Montgomery 1000 Throckmorton Fort Worth TX 76102-6311 Facsimile: (817) 392-8654 14. SOLICITATION OF EMPLOYEES. To CONSULTANT: Strategic Cost Control Attn. Heather Anthony 899 Presidential Drive, Ste. 115 Richardson TX 75081 Neither the City nor Consultant shall, during the term of this agreement and additionally for a period of one year after its termination, solicit for employment or employ whether as employee or independent contractor, any person who is or has been employed by the other during the term of this agreement, without the prior written consent of the person's employer. RFP No.10-0531, Unemployment Compensation Administration, Page 10 of 13 15. GOVERNMENTAL POWERS. It is understood and agreed that by execution of this Agreement, the City does not waive or surrender any of its governmental powers 16. NO WAIVER The failure of the City or Consultant to insist upon the performance of any term or provision of this Agreement or to exercise any right granted herein shall not constitute a waiver of the City's or Consultant's respective right to insist upon appropriate performance o r to assert any such right on any future occasion. 17. GOVERNING LAW / VENUE. This Agreement shall be construed in accordance with the internal laws of the State of Texas If any action, whether real or asserted, at law or in equity, is brought on the basis of this Agreement, venue for such action shall lie in state courts located in Tarrant County, Texas or the United States District Court for the Northern District of Texas, Fort Worth Division. 18. SEVERABILITY. If any provision of this Agreement is held to be invalid, illegal or unenforceable, the validity, legality and enforceability of the remaining provisions shall not in any way be affected or impaired 19. FORCE MAJEURE. If either party is unable, either in whole or part, to fulfill its obligations under this Agreement due to acts of God; strikes, lockouts, or other industrial disturbances; acts of public enemies; wars; blockades' insurrections; riots• epidemics* public health cases; earthquakes; fires; floods; restraints or prohibitions by any court, board department, commission, or agency of the United States or of any state; declaration of a state of disaster or emergency by the federal, state, county, or City government in accordance with applicable law; any arrests and restraints; civil disturbances' or explosions, or some other reason beyond the Party's reasonable control (collectively "Force Majeure Event"), the o bligations so affected by such Force Majeure Event will be suspended only during the continuance of such event. 20. HEADINGS NOT CONTROLLING. Headings and titles used in this Agreement are for reference purposes only and shall n ot be deemed a part of this Agreement. 21. REVIEW OF COUNSEL The parties acknowledge that each party and its counsel have reviewed and revised this Agreement and that the normal rules of construction to the effect that any ambiguities are to be resolved against the drafting party shall not be employed in the interpretation of this Agreement or exhibits hereto. RFP No.10-0531, Unemployment Compensation Administration, Page 11 of 13 22. AMI-N.NDIVIFNTS / MODIFICATIONS / EXT �NSIOi S. No extension, modification or amendment of this Agreement shall be binding upon a party hereto unless such extension, modification, or amendment is set forth in a written instrument, which is executed by an authorized representative and delivered on behalf of such party. 23. ENTIR E;TY OF AGRF rIVIENT. This instrument, including all attachments and exhibits and any documents incorporated herein by reference, constitutes the entire understanding between the City and Consultant and their respective assigns and successors in interest as to the matters contained herein. Any prior or contemporaneous oral or written documents purporting to vary from the terms of this Agreement is hereby declared null and void to the extent in conflict with any provision of this Agreement. 24. SIGNATURE AUTHORITY. The person signing this Agreement hereby warrants that he or she has the legal authority to execute this Agreement on behalf of his or her respective party and that such binding authority has been granted by proper order, resolution, ordinance, or other authorization of the entity. The other party is fully entitled to rely on this warranty and representation in entering into this Agreement. [SIGNATURE PAGE FOLLOWS] OFFICIAL RECORD CITY SECRETARY Ft WORTH, TX IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have executed this Agreement in multiples this day of Ma.A..t. , 2010. CITY OF FORT WORTH By: Karen L. Montgomery Assistant City Manager a-LI-0 / Date: STRATEGIC COST CONTROL, INC. Heather Anthoriq- Director of Operations /1/1 �/�Date: to RFP No.10-0531, Unemployment Compensation Administration, Page 12 of 13 ATTEST: By: oki\t'CAA City SecrAary .01 I A, 0 1:imr 1 g 0 0 NS Q Ye(?. 1)° ` , 000 (14-1117 ATT APPROVED AS TO FORM AND LEGA TY: Asistant CONTRACT AUTHORIZATION: No M&C Required By: E f;i, fIfk.:6:s)e"'r>. OFFICIAL RECORD CITY SECRETARY F1'0 WORTH, TX RFP No.10-0531, Unemployment Compensation Administration, Page 13 of 13 Oct 1,2010 8:33 AM • 1 1 cc A • • eybActsvta Texas Workforce Commission Notice of Te iephone Hearing Date Mailed: SRPTEMBER 28, 2010 pl•• • h. •r. dampen •. Is. . .. • • • do • • L • • 111 • • • a _-a. ...• . . . •. Claimant: SSN: Hearing Date: TUESDAY, OC FOBER 12, 2010 Scan l-8OO252-3749 between 1:40 PM and 1:30 PM for your hearing. • /14.g. uan" ao. y ;,...I L '.: ...'_ !!!'.'Jo .:SII I I I I I ! :.:..I. 1 yfl I .1 _ WHEAT YOU MUST DO: Send documents before the hearing. You may have documents that are important to your case. Review the contents of this packet carefully: If any documents are mussing, immediately fax or mail copies of those documents to the hearing officer and the other party. Call in for your hearing, This hearing will be held by telephone conference call. On the hearing date, call (800) 2524749 within, the 30 minutes before the hearing start time. Give the operator the phone number where you can be reached for the hearing. If you call from a pay phone, be sure it can receive incoming calls. The hearing may be your only chance to tell what happened, present your documents, and ask questions of the witnesses. If you do not call (800) 252-3749 within the 30 minutes before the hearing start time, you may not be allowed to participate in the hearing. You will not have another opportunity to offer testimony unless you can establish good cause for whey you did not call in as instructed. Employers who are not parties of interest (indicated above as NPI) do not have the right to request a new hearing, nor to appeal. • ..•• • rO..I.■rrY Y IHiY ii.usi-staimasitissistaatimeesesteiggs Employer: PI Account: 99-991777-1 FORT WORTH -CITY OF % CORPORATE COST CONTROL, INC. PO BOX 851925 • RICHARDSON TX 75085-1925 Hearing Start Time: :30PM Central Daylight Time Hearing Officer: M. MC BRYDE • I ! I P I II ..'_=-'I. ,JIP1 L_,.. 11 .11dl.C2:: Are you ready for your hearing? Go to www.texasworkforce.org and select `Prepare for an appeal" to listen to a sample hearing and access other information and tools to help you prepare. Appeal No: 1351672-1 Hearing: 1 Appeal filed by: Employer Appea! Date: 08/31 /20 10 Initial Claim Date: 07/25/2010 Determination Date(s): 08/18/2010 Equal Opportunity Program M. MC BRYDE, Hearing Officer Texas Workforce Commission PO BOX 90736 SAN ANTONIO TX 78209 Hearing Officer (210) 8041124 Fax No. (210) 804- ] 1 b 1 OFFICIAL i 4Es4)RD CITY SECRETARY 'o wnRTHI TX • • • Oct 1,2010 8:33 AN 2 - A Additional copies of this hearing notice packet were mailed to: FORT WORTH -CITY OF ATTN HR DEPT - PETE NELSON 1000 THROCKMORTON ST FORT WORTH TX 76102-6312 Oct 1,2010 8:33 AM 3-A • • • Issues in Your Hearing (Additional issues, if any, are continued on Page 4.) • Whether the claimant was separated from the last work as a result of a discharge based on work -connected misconduct or a voluntary quit without work -connected good cause. If claimant's discharge occurred while absent from work due to illness, or if claimant resigned from work upon the advice of a physician, claimant should immediately mail or fax to the hearing officer and opposing party a physician's statement to medically verify claimant's physical condition Testimony alone as to a physical condition may be insufficient. Chargeability of benefits paid to claimant which are based on wages from this employer. If employer is a reimbursing employer, benefits paid to claimant based on wages from this employer shall be billed to the employer. • • Please notify your client of the hearing and forward to them copies of the hearing notice and attached Commission documents. Oct 1,2010 8:33 AM 4=A • • • Equal Opportunity Program Oct 1,2010 5-A 8:33 AN • Your Appeal Tribunal Hearing - Information and Instructions Hearing packet contents TWC mails a Notice of Hearing and copies of the information we have to all hearing participants. This packet should contain: • The date that TWC notified the claimant's last employer that the claimant applied for unemployment benefits. (This information is included only if relevant to the claim.) • Any protests to the claim • Any information that TWC received in response to the claimant s claim • Any fact-finding statements that TWC took while investigating issue(s) on appeal. • The appeal itself (either a letter or appeal form), Purpose of the hearing The hearing is a fact-finding process that uses a question -and -answer method. Each side may present testimony, witnesses, and documents relevant to its case. The hearmg officer will conduct a fair hearing, determine what is relevant, and make sure the record is complete. After the hearing, the officer will prepare a written decision based on the evidence. That decision will be mailed to you. What happens at a hearing Your Notice of Telephone Hearing lists what issues the hearing will cover. The hearing is recorded and all proceedings are taken under oath. After explaining the law and procedures, the hearing officer will ask questions of each side and its witnesses in turn. After all testimony is taken from one side, the same procedure is repeated for the other side. Wait your turn, as you may not interrupt while another person is testifying. The hearing officer will tell you when it's your turn to ask questions. Ask relevant questions that have not already been asked and answered. If you don't have any questions, let the hearing officer know. Evidence Written evidence or documents such as letters, timecards, or doctors' statements may help your case. Photos, maps, or charts may also help explain what happened. Be ready to tell who prepared the evidence and how it helps your case. Send legible copies of the documents to the hearing officer and the other side before the hearing. Do this even if you believe the Texas Workforce Commission or the other side already has them If you don t, the documents may not be considered as evidence. Include only documents that relate directly to issues listed on the hearing notice. Special equipment If you need access to a telephone, fax machine, or speakerphone to present witness testimony or documents, TWC can set up the equipment at a Texas Workforce Center an your area We will try to provide as much privacy for your hearing as possible. To request the equipment, please contact your local Texas Workforce Center as soon as you know the time and date of your hearing. For a directory of TWC Workforce Centers, please visit www.texasworkforce. ors. Relay Texas customers may communicate with TWC at 1-800-735-2989 (TDD) or I-800-735-2988 (Voice). Witnesses You may present witnesses to support your case. Choose witnesses who actually saw or heard what happened. Notify them of the date and time of the hearing and arrange for them to be available at that time. When the hearing begins, give the hearing officer the telephone number where each witness can be reached for the hearing. Sworn statements A sworn written statement —called an affidavit —is sometimes used when a witness is unavailable to testify at the scheduled hearing time. An affidavit cannot be given as much weight as live witness testimony because the person who made the sworn statement is unavailable to answer questions. If an affidavit is used, it must be specific and must be sworn to before a notary public. Do I need a Lawyer? The unemployment appeal process is designed for claimants and employers who don t have attorneys. The hearing officer will help you develop the facts, present your documents, and question the other • Equal Opportunity Program Oct 1,2010 8:33 AM 6A side. However, an attorney or another person may represent you at your own expense. Schedule conflicts Hearing postponements are not ordinanly granted. However if you have a justifiable conflict, notify the hearing officer as soon as possible before your hearing. If you don't, a later request to reopen your hearing may be denied. Failure to appear and requests to reopen If one side fails to participate in the hearing the bearing officer may take testimony from those present and issue a decision based on that testimony. The side that failed to participate may request a reopening of the case, but must first establish good cause for the original nonappearance If you want a hearing reopened, request it in writing no later than 14 days of the decision date. Faxing your appeal or petition to reopen If you fax your appeal or petition to reopen, TWC must receive it no later than 14 days from the date the decision was mailed. Keep your fax confirmation as proof of transmission. TWC will use the date we receive the fax to determine whether your appeal is timely Interpreters The Appeal Tribunal will provide qualified interpreters If you or any of your witnesses need an interpreter and you have not previously requested one, contact the hearing officer immediately. Withdrawing an appeal Only the person who filed the appeal may withdraw it. If you wish to withdraw your appeal, please notify your hearing officer in writing or by telephone. The name, address, and phone number of the hearing officer are listed on the Notice of Telephone Hearing. Time zones If you call from a time zone other than Central Standard Time, be sure to properly calculate the time difference. Subpoenas A subpoena is a legal document issued by the hearing officer that orders an essential witness to testify or produce certain documents for the hearing. Before requesting a subpoena, ask the witness to voluntarily participate or furnish documents. If the witness refuses call your hearing officer immediately. The subpoena process takes several days, so please allow plenty of time. The hearing officer determines if it is necessary to issue a subpoena. Decision The Appeal Tribunal's written decision will resolve each issue but it won't review in detail all testunony or documents given at the hearing. If you disagree with the decision, you may file a further appeal. The decision will explain how to file an appeal Oct 1,2010 8:33 AM 1 7-A • Selected Sections of the Texas Unemployment Compensation Act One or more of the following sections of the Texas Unemployment Compensation Act may be involved in your case, depending on the issues. Other sections of the Act not listed here may also be involved. If so, the hearing officer will explain them before your hearing. Discharge for Misconduct. Section 207.044 of the Act states an individual is disqualified for benefits if the individual was discharged for misconduct connected with the individual's last work. Disqualification under this section continues until the claimant has returned to employment and worked for six weeks or earned wages equal to six times the individual s benefit amount. Definition of Misconduct. Section 201.012 of the Act defines "misconduct" as the mismanagement of a position of employment by action or inaction, neglect that jeopardizes the life or property of another, intentional wrongdoing or malfeasance intentional violation of a law, or violation of a policy or rule adopted to ensure the orderly work and safety of employees. The term "misconduct" does not include an act in response to an unconscionable act of an employer or superior. Voluntarily Leaving Work. Section 207.045 of the Act states an individual who left the individual's last work voluntarily without good cause connected with the work is disqualified until the individual has returned to employment and worked for six weeks or earned wages equal to six times the individual's benefit amount,unless the individual left work to move with a spouse from the area where the individual worked. In that case, the claimant shall be disqualified for not less than six nor more than twenty-five benefit periods following the filing of a valid claim, as determined by the Commission according to the circumstances in each case. No individual may be disqualified because the individual left work because of a medically verified illness of the claimant or claimant's minor child, injury disability or pregnancy if the individual is available for work. A medically venfied illness of a minor child prevents disqualification under this section only if reasonable alternative care was not available to the child and the employer refused to allow the individual a reasonable amount of time off during the illness. Military personnel who do not reenlist have not left work voluntarily without good cause connected with the work. An individual who is partially unemployed and who resigns that employment to accept other employment that the individual believes will increase the individual's weekly wage is not disqualified for benefits under this section. A temporary employee of a temporary help firm is considered to have left the employee's last work voluntarily without good cause connected with the work if the temporary employee does not contact the temporary help firm for reassignment on completion of an assignment. A temporary employee is not considered to have left work voluntarily without good cause connected with the work under this subsection unless the temporary employee has been advised; (1) that the temporary employee is obligated to contact the temporary help firm on completion of assignments; and (2) that unemployment benefits may be denied if the temporary employee fails to do so. Benefit Eligibility Conditions: Section 207.021 of the Act states an unemployed individual is eligible to receive benefits for a benefit period if the mdividual: (I) has registered for work at an employment office and has continued to report to the employment office as required by rules adopted by the Commission; (2) has made claim for benefits; (3) is able to work; (4) is available for work; (5) for the individual's base period, has benefit wage credits: (A) in at least two calendar quarters; and (B) in an amount not less than 37 times the individual's benefit amount; (6) after the beginning date of the individual's most recent pnor benefit year, if applicable, earned wages in an amount equal to not less than six times the individual's benefit amount; Equal Opportunity Program Oct 1,2010 8:33 AM 8-A (7) has been totally or partially unemployed for a waiting period of at least seven consecutive days; and (8) participates in reemployment services such as a job search assistance service, if the individual has been determined, according to a profiling system established by the Commission, to be likely to exhaust eligibility for regular benefits and to need those services to obtain new employment, unless: (A) the individual has completed participation in such service; or (B) there is reasonable cause, as determined by the Commission, for the individual's failure to participate in those services Filing; Information Notices. Section 208.001 of the Act states, in part, that claims for benefits shall be made in accordance with rules adopted by the Commission. Each employer shall post and maintain, in places accessible to employees, printed notices giving general information about filing a claim for unemployment benefits. Exclusions from Chargebacks. Section 204,022 of the Act states in substance, that benefits paid to a claimant shall not be charged to an employer's account if the claimant's last separation from the employer's employment pnor to the beginning date of the claimant s benefit year, 1) was required by a federal statute; 2) was required by a state statute or municipal ordinance; 3) would have disqualified the employee under Section 207,044, 207.045 or 207.053 if the employment had been the employee's last work; 4) imposes a disqualification under Section 207.044, 207.045, or 207.053; 5) was caused by a medically verifiable illness of the employee or the employee's minor child; 6) was based on a natural disaster that results in a disaster declaration by the President of the United States; 7) was caused by a natural disaster fire, flood, or explosion that causes an employee to be separated from his or her employer and thereby incapable of performing work; 8) was based on a disaster that results in a disaster declaration by the Governor; 9) resulted in the employee s resigning from partial employment to accept other employment that the employee reasonably believed would increase the employee's weekly wage; 10) was caused by the employer being called to active military service on or after January 1, 2003; 11) resulted from the employee leaving the workplace to protect the employee from family violence or stalking as evidenced by: (A) a protective order; (B) police records and (C) medical documents* 12) resulted from a move from the employment area that: (A) was made with the employee's spouse who is a member of the U.S. military, (13) resulted from the spouse's permanent change of station longer than 120 days or a tour of duty longer than one year; or 13) was caused by the employee being unable to perform work as a result of a disability for which the employee is receiving disability insurance benefits wider 42 U.S.C. Section 423. Failure to Apply for, Accept, or Return to Work. Section 207.047 of the Act states an individual is disqualified for benefits if during the individual's current benefit year the individual failed, without good cause, to apply for available, suitable work when directed to do so by the Commission, or to accept suitable work offered to the individual, or to return to the individual's customary self- employment (if any) when directed to do so by the Commission. Disqualification continues until the individual has returned to employment and worked for six weeks, or earned wages equal to six times the individual's benefit amount. Recovery of Benefits Paid. Section 212.006 of the Act states that benefits paid to a claimant that are not in accordance with the final determination of an examiner or decision of an Appeal Tribunal, the Commission, or a reviewing court shall be refunded by the claimant to the Commission, or in the discretion of the Commission, deducted from future benefits payable to the claimant under this Act. Determination Final; Appeal, Section 212.053 of the Act states, in part, an examiner's determination is final for all purposes unless the claimant or the person or branch for which the claimant last worked, and to whom a copy of the determination is mailed files an appeal from the determination not later than the 14' calendar day after that date on which the copy of the determination is mailed to the last known address of the claimant, person, or branch as shown by Commission records. Equal Opportunity Program Oct 1,2010 8:33 AM 9-A Page: 1 Benefits — Non -Monetary Determinations Fact Finding SSN:1111alh Case Nbr: 4 Issue Nbr: 1 Type. FIRED Reason: FIRED-INTAKE-INTERNET Stmt Nbr: 1 of: 3 Stmt of Claimant Taken: 07-26-2010 11:20:14 AM Name. Title: Phone Stmt: N Claim ID: 2010-07-25 Claim Dt: 07-25-2010 Rebuttal: Footnote: N Accused of inappropriate behavior and the behavior of the employees under my supervision. Name of the person who told you that you were fired: 01.111111.1.111. Title of the rson who told you that you were fired: Did somet ing specific happen that caused you to be fired?_ Y Explanation: I was accused of false allegations filed against me and was term inated. At this time Vm In the appeal process of these false allegations. fired?_ N Explanation: I had no previous disciplines, or warnings in my employee file t hroughout my 3 years of employment with them. Did you do what you were warned about? N Explanation: I was accused of false allegations by one of my employees for hi s own personel reasons. END *** No footnote entered *** Page: 2 Benefits — Non -Monetary Determinations Fact Finding SSN:S Case Nbr: 4 Issue Nbr. 1 Type: FIRED Reason: INAPPROPRIATE CONDUCT Stmt Nbr: 2 of: 3 Stmt of: Employer Taken 08-12-2010 10:39:02 AM Name: STACEY LOPEZ/CORPORATE COST CNTL Title: REP Phone Stmt: Y Claim ID 2010-07-25 Claim Dt 07-25-2010 Rebuttal: N Footnote: Y R!A No Question Set Entered *** END DATE AND TIME: 08-12-10 10:41AM LEFT MESSAGE FOR: STACEY LOPEZ LEFT MESSAGE ON OR WITH VOICEMAIL Oct 1,2010 8:33 AM 10-A ADVISED CALLING FOR INFORMATION ON UNEMPLOYMENT CLAIM. DEADLINE TO RESPOND MON 8-16-10 BY I lAM GAVE CONSEQUENCES FOR FAILURE TO RESPOND BY DEADLINE. COMMENTS: Oct 1,2010 8:33 AM 11 -A • Page: 3 Benefits — Non -Monetary Determinations Fact Finding SSN:ile Cam Nbr: 4 Issue Nbr: 1 Type: FIRED Reason: INAPPROPRIATE CONDUCT Stmt Nbr: 3 of: 3 Stint of: Claimant Taken: 08-17-2010 11:08:01 AM Name: itle• Phone Stint: Y Claim ID: 2010-07-25 Claim Dt: 07-25-2010 Rebuttal: N Footnote: Y What was reason for separation from work? INNAPROPRIATE CONDUCT Nan le of person discharging claimant. When/how discharged? 07-26-10 BY A CERTIFIED LETTER IN A MAIL Exactly what happened? I HAD A DISGRUNTLED EMPLOYER WHO WANTED A TRANSFER AND 1 DIDN'T GIVE IT TO HIM SO HE WAS NOT HAPPY. HE HAD MORE DISCIPLINE COMING BUT THEY TERMINATED ME. Proof relating to the accusation/incident? FUEY SAY THAT THEY HAVE WRITTEN STATEMENTS F/OTHERS PEOPLE BUT I GUESS THEY WILL PRODUCE THAT AT MY HEARING. Prior warning(s)? N Time lapse between incident and discharge? Y If yes, explain. THE COMPLAINTS WERE TURNED IN BY THE DISGRUNTLED EMPLOYEE IN APRIL AND THEY DID NOT TERMINATE ME UNTIL JULY 26TH. I DO NOT KNOW THE REASON WHY IT TOOK SO LONG. END ALL THESE ALLEGATIONS WERE SURROUNDING THREE OF MY EMPLOYEES THAT WERE A PART OF THE MISCONDUCT AND I AM ATTACHED BECAUSE I AM THEIR SUPERVISOR I DID NOT PARTICIPATE IN ANY INNAPROPRIATE CONDUCT AND I HAVE WITNESSES THAT WILL SAY I DID NOT PARTICIPATE IN ANY INNAPROPRIATE CONDUCT AND I DO NOT USE PROFANITY AT THE WORKPLACE I WOULD BE COMFORTABLE IN PUTTING ALL OF MY LOYEES ON THE STAND AT THE HEARING AND ASK THEM THE SAME QUESTION] AM GOING TO MY HEARING ON THURSDAY OF THIS WEEK TO ADDRESS THIS W/THE CITY AND GET MY JOB BACK BASICALLY, I HAD THREE EMPLOYEES WHO WERE OUT IN THE FIELD WORKING WHILE ISTAY BACK IN THE OFFICE BUT I HAVE TEAM LEADS OUT THERE IN THE FIELD WHO WERE SUPPOSED TO REPORT TO ME ABOUT THINGS BUT THEY WERENT REPORTING THINGS TO ME SO THE DISGRUNTLED EMPLOYEE MADE A COMPLAINT AGAINST HIS OTHER CO-WORKERS HIS TEAM LEAD AND ME BECAUSE HE DID NOT GET HIS TRANSFER.THE DISGRUNTLED EMPLOYER ALSO DID NOT GET ALONG W/HIS CO WORKERS. 1 AM GOING THRU A HEARING W/IHE CITY TO GET MY JOB BACK AND TO BRING TO THE FOREFRONT ALL OF THE ISSUES WERE BROUGHT UP BECAUSE OF THIS Oct 1,2010 8:33 AM 12-A DISGRUNTLED EMPLOYEE FIE IS THE ONE TO CAUSE ALL OF THIS BUT HE DOES NOT HAVE MUCH ON ME AT ALL. HE IS THE ONE THAT TS THE CORE OF MISCONDUCT. Oct 1,2010 8:33 AM 13-A Employer Response to Notice of Application for UI Benefits SSNIMINNER Claim Date: 07-25-2010 Claim Type: IC PGM: REG Claim iD: 2010-07-25 Employer: 99-991777-1 FORT WORTH-LiFY OF Correct Last Employer: Y Monetarily Eligible: Y EDI: Notice Sent: 07-27-2010 Due: 08-10-2010 Claimant Separation Reason: FIRED Responded: O8-10-2010 Response Type: Confirmation #: Employer Separation Reason: FIRED TWC Action: ROUTE ONLY Current Investigator. GWENDOLYN DAVIS Employment Information. Date Range Worked: T ru Gross Wages Earned: Wages ]a Lieu Of Notice: On Temporary Layoff: Paid Vacation Days: Paid lbw Recall Date: Paid T7uu: Responder's Name: TWC Account: Responder's Title: Phone: Contact Person: Phone: Additional Information Regarding Separation Oct 1,2010 8:33 AM 14-A Issue Decision Log SSN:alar Case Nbr: 4 Issue Nbr: 1 of: 1 Type: FIRED Reason: INAPPROPRIATE CONDUCT Program: REG Claim ID: 2010-07-25 Claim Type: IC Claim Dt: 07-25-2010 LEU• 99-991777-1 FORT WORTH -CITY OF Late LEU Response: N Interested Party: Y Charged: Yes Other Employer: Decision Date: 08-17-2010 Weeks Disqualified: Mailed Date: 08-18-2010 Deductible Amount: Begin Date: 07-25-2010 State: End Date: Incident Date: Claimant Failed to Respond: N Qualified: Y Rationale: PO -DECISION IS BASED ON AVAILABLE INFORMATION, CONFLICTING STATEMENTS AS THE MOVING PARTY, EMPLOYER FAH4F-D TO PROVIDE PROOF OF MISCONDUCT OR MISMANAGEMENT Conclusion: FIRED -LAST INCIDENT NOT MISCONDUL 1-NUT DISQUALIFIED • • • • Oct 1,2010 8:33 AN POO 1 MI n MINIM' 1wouru11•11 • Waal MIM•Il Total Pages (incl. cover) Request Date: 09/22/2010 SNP 11111. -._a ` - II 11111•11 — apissWeigirsiesisAssormiasseitassustailimuluara ... CRUM ma 7i doom H1ifiwi1111imenrm ours uMlroum ou•.mirls. aims or MEM • D No Records Found SSN: Case Number. 1351672 To: TWC Appeals Fax: 51124751175 From: NO Claimant Claim ID: '7/25/2010 Case -Issue: 4/1, FD D Unable to Locate Paper Records E-CENTER 6475 Oct 1,2010 8:33 AN C 7-a5 /6 Received en0r201n s:00:52 Air Icannil Daylight Tbnel in 00-63 on a+. IS 09 1/ 0 2010 08 Ps2 9249 P . 001 /001 • August 10, 2010 CORPORATE COST CONTROL, INC. TEXAS WORKFORCE COMMISSION P0BOX 901010 FORT WORTH, TX 76101-1010 REFERENCE: Z0/Q Isa Please send a coo/ of the determination to: "` Corporate Cast Controt, Inc. P.O. Box 851825 Richardson, TX 7$088-1825 NOTICE OF RESPONSE TO CLAIM SOCIAL SECURITY NO. ACCOUNT NO. 999917771 Dear Claims interviewer, CLASIANY EMPLOYER City of Fort Worth °Are OF HIRE LA.ST PAY WORK 7/9/2007 7r2til2010 cLA $ DATE 7/25/2010 In response to your Unemployment Claim Notice, the employer's records indicate that the reason for separation is as follows: Claim Protested, Discharged for misconduct. Two separate complaints were filed by employees who alleged various incidents of inappropriate conduct by their supervisor,= and oth individuals supervised liallnAfter an internal investigation, it was determined tlsa ed is inappvyiate behavior andalso failed to adequately supervise employees wbo engaged in in.:*r ,.,:..:e behavior This behavior included supervisors and employees that routinely yelled, screamed, cursed, and made demeaning comments towards employees performing their daily job duties. This inappropriate behavior also included the use of use of obscene and profane language and derogatory comments. It was determined that as a supervisor,Sengagcd in inappropriate behavior himself and also failed to take appropriate remedial action when be became aware of the behavior. Sincerely, A-75-47).- Stacey Lopez Employees Representative Oct 1,2010 8:33 AN FRO SOAP COST CONTROL August 30, 2010 (TUE)AUG 31 2010 10:09/ST. 9:32/No.6827704075 P 1 CORPORATE COST CONTROL, INC. APPEALS TRIBUNAL TEXAS WORKFORCE COMMISSION FAX TO 512475-1135 • REFERENCE! soak sECURRY so. ArcouxY rro. 889817711 NOTICE OF APPEAL Of Decision Mailed 8/18/2010 City of Fort Worth Cbkn t)po: Initial CAA Ch ICWq: 7/25/2010 CLAIM CATE 7/25J2010 As authorized representatives of the referenced employer, we disagree with the claim determination/Ming and wish to file an appeal, Please notify us of the date sad time of the hearing ss soon as It has bees scheduled. Thank you in advance For your consideration in this matter. Sincerely, 49e Stacey Lopez Employer's Representative Please mail employer's copy of 8earisg Notice to: Po• 1 ox et -CPUs Riefardson, ?aDPS /72,5 Page 1 of 1 08/31/2010 TUE 10:06 (TX/RX NO 9136] 111001 Oct 1,2010 8:33 AN • • Fp11�I V tn,�u CORP COST CONTROL 1. /UO'L C44 11e VI Support 61 Custamer SNvice TEXAS WORKFORCE COMMISSION BOX 901010 FORT WORM TX 78101-2010 I MN (TUE)AUG 31 2010 10:09/ST. 9:32/No.6827704075 P 2 ge EMPLOYER'S GOPY DETERMINATION ON PAYMENT OF UNEMPLOYMENT BENEP!TS Date Mailed: Augtat 18, 2010 AUG 2 3 FORT YORTH-CITY OF i CORPORATE COST CONTROL, INC. PO BOX 85192S RICHARDSON TX 75085-1925 Ihatltlel Ita,tl,el tl im211131.011del.berit61t6te,ltl • Iodividua : social Security - 11 RmPbyet FORT WO • " e F Employer Account No,c 99-991777-1 All dfAs a o shown in month-dad-,teatr order, We scat this declsltfn on entitlement to Unemployment Benefits to the individual on this dace. iesstlet $eparst ton from Work Deslslon: We oan pay you benetits, if you meet ail other requirement°. Reason fee Deatsfon: Dur investigation found that some of your actions on the Job nay have been elacenduot. However, the Incident your employer discharged you for want not misconduct connected with the work. Law Referenda: Section 207.044 of tha Texas Unemployment Compensation Act. teult ataostre yaw r aeiefen rwc monitors eligibility for bsncfite snen a claimant first files a claim for unemployment insurance and every ties weekly payments are requested. TWC has made a decision about this c/minima's Joe separation or ongoing ettgipt/ity for ui. bentlte. - if you disagree with this decision, file an appeal. Appeal teem decision separately by the appeal deadline. If you fax your appeal, retain a copy of the confirmation sheet. A claimant Pan dispute or appeal a "we cannot pay you benefits• derision. Two will notify you of the appeal hearing. Fallure to participate may reedit in en advert* decision. Be aware that you may receive additional or revised deaietons for the same claim. tat, you haws questtens, °all the TWC Tele-Center handling your alarm. a 1 .. Dsterminatlan.,.of BtnDIo's •.Potiddat Chariebadc.. Your last employer 1s a reimbursing employer. Therefore. if we make any payments to you during your benefit year, we MUST include the amount paid on the quarterly bit/ for this account. • . , .• If I You . Disagree • with •tnis;:Deleasion• %. . •.r .. ' .... s f it you disagree with this desiska, you may appeal. Fax or have say appeal you nay file postmarked on or betorc 08-01-t0 . TWC will use the data we receive the fax to determine whether your appeal is timely. 1f yos hie your appeal by fit. you should rotate you fax confirmation es proof of anomalistic*. Please include a copy of this notice with Appeals oa pr adore. TM Appeal ale hs is writes to this Wrest Appeal Tribunal Texas Woskforoe Commission 101 E. /5th Street Austin, TX 78778-0002 FAX (512) 475-1135 Please see reverse ter bow to Me ea types/. fn4240 1007ifW7 clews ID.: 07-41-1e C1ti>a, 0. 0705-se rot MCAa1N0 IMPAIRED CL1a0Tt OM, Vela 720 tea: :000435-44N vole Ns: 1-100713341da ate 1 08/31/2010 TUE 10:06 (TX/elf NO 81361 W1002 Exhibit B Preparing for an Unemployment Claim Hearing Information to gather before the hearing. The hearing examiner will ask for the following information about the employee: • Hire date • Termination date • Last position held • Date unpaid leave began • Reason for termination • Final rate of pay • Regular work schedule number of hours worked weekly • Supervisor's name Documents needed for the hearing. The hearing examiner will not allow witnesses to review documents during the hearing unless the documents have been admitted into evidence. You should obtain copies of the following documents well in advance of the hearing and provide them to the City's third -party administrator, who will represent the City at the hearings • Pre -termination letter • Notice of termination • Documents that support the reason for the termination, including the work rule the employee violated (for example, the specific provision of the Personnel Rules and Regulations, General Orders, or Standard Operating Procedures), and the evidence obtained during the investigation, if any, of the employee's conduct • Prior disciplinary action • Evaluations (if they are relevant to the reason for termination) Issues to anticipate at the hearing. Progressive discipline. The City does not have a progressive -discipline policy. A progressive -discipline policy requires an employer to issue an oral or written warning, then some form of discipline short of termination, before an employee can be terminated. Under the City's policies, an employee may be tenmmated for a first offense. Work rules. The hearing examiner will want to know whether the employee was terminated for violating a work rule The Department's representative at the hearing will need to be familiar with the rule that the employee violated and be prepared to discuss how and when the employee learned of the rule. Specifically, the hearing examiner is trying to determine whether the employee had advance notice that the conduct the employee engaged in could result in his termination. Investigation. The hearing examiner may inquire about the investigation the Department conducted that led to the termination decision and what the employee was told about the results of the investigation. (In some cases there is no investigation the decision -maker may have personally witnessed the conduct, such as insubordination so this may not be an issue) If there was an investigation, the Department may need to provide a witness at the hearing who can testify about how management learned of the conduct, what steps were taken to determine whether the employee actually engaged in it, and what the employee was told before the termination decision was made (such as at or following the pre -termination hearing.) Usual order of proceedings. The hearing will be conducted by telephone. Be sure to call in within the time provided on the hearing notice. The hearing examiner will open the hearing with a statement of the issues: whether the employee's separation from work was voluntary or due to discharge or layoff. The hearing examiner will discuss any procedural issues related to the hearing, administer the oath to the witnesses, estabhsh who will be each party's representative during the hearing, confirm that each party received notice of the hearing, and take testimony. All witnesses will be subject to cross-examination and questioning by the hearing examiner. Hearings are usually set for one or two hours. If the hearing is not completed within the time allotted, it will be adjourned and continued on another day, probably a few weeks later.