Seismic Upgrades, Staff Reorganization on PVE Council Agenda

To become more earthquake-ready, the Palos Verdes Estates City Council tonight will consider choosing an outside firm to design seismic retrofits at City Hall.

City staff has recommended the award of a professional services agreement to IDS Group in the amount of $52,512.50 for the design of the retrofits.

"City Hall functions as the city’s Emergency Operation Center and it is imperative that the building be operational after a large earthquake," stated a city report from Public Works Director Allan Rigg.

IDS previously provided seismic design services for the retrofit of the , according to the report.

The council is also expected to approve a staff reorganization, with 1.5 fewer full-time employees. The city estimates saving about $167,600 in salary costs during 2011-12. The reorganization would create and combine positions, according to city reports.

Tonight's meeting is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. at City Hall, 340 Palos Verdes Dr. West.