The Hollister City Council this week extended the term another
six months for interim Police Chief Jeff Miller’s contract that
started when he officially retired from the permanent role at the
end of 2010.
The Hollister City Council this week extended the term another six months for interim Police Chief Jeff Miller’s contract that started when he officially retired from the permanent role at the end of 2010.
Council members voted 4-1 on Monday in approving the extension for another 960 hours, or six months. Councilman Robert Scattini dissented and expressed concern about Miller earning pay from both his retirement and city contract.
Under the agreement, Miller earns the same hourly rate that he made as permanent chief – his wages totaled $128,600 in 2010 – but the city does not pay health benefits.
The city hired Miller as police chief in August 2003. He retired at the end of 2010, but agreed to remain as a contracted interim chief.
City Manager Clint Quilter on Monday cited a reason for another extension: the study of prospectively consolidating the San Benito County Sheriff’s Office and Hollister Police Department. A staff report for Monday’s meeting estimates the consolidation study could be done in mid-July.
Miller provides some savings – about $40,000 for the six months – because he no longer receives health benefits from Hollister.
The Hollister Police Officers Association endorsed keeping Miller on as chief in a letter to the city manager.
