Logo courtesy of the City of Biggs

BIGGS, CA (MPG) – Biggs is preparing to seek outside help enforcing municipal codes after the City Council approved changes to its staffing structure Oct. 27.

The council eliminated the code enforcement job classification and established a new Administrative Services Specialist position as part of City Administrator Nicolas Gauthier's ongoing review of municipal operations.

Gauthier said the city previously combined code enforcement and planning assistant responsibilities into one classification, an arrangement he believes has not provided adequate service.

“As of right now, we really don't have code enforcement at all,” Gauthier said.

Although Biggs maintains an agreement with Butte County for certain services, Gauthier said he wants to explore other options to address enforcement needs.

He said he plans to solicit proposals from outside providers rather than just fill a dedicated municipal position, allowing the city to evaluate available services and costs before making a commitment. The change does not eliminate the possibility of employing a planning assistant in the future. Gauthier said that position may still be needed as the city's administrative and development responsibilities evolve.

The council last week approved creating the Administrative Services Specialist classification to reflect expanded duties currently associated with an accounting technician position. Gauthier said the new designation more accurately describes the responsibilities involved and provides greater flexibility in managing the city's financial and administrative functions.

The annual salary range for the position is approximately $62,712 to $72,800, officials said. The new classification's entry-level pay is about $630 higher than the starting rate for an accounting technician, Gauthier said. Actual compensation will depend on the qualifications of the applicant selected after the city advertises the opening.

Officials said the reclassification can be accommodated within the city's existing budget.

Gauthier has been reviewing municipal job descriptions and responsibilities as part of broader efforts to reorganize city operations. Changes involving represented employees would require separate negotiations, he said.

The council approved corresponding amendments to its authorized positions and salary schedule, effective Nov. 1.

Gauthier said he intends to seek proposals for an outside code enforcement provider in early November.