City OKs severance pact with Hecker after 13 years of service

The Elk River City Council approved a severance agreement and waiver of claims with Recreation Manager Michael Hecker.

Hecker submitted his notice of resignation/retirement. City policy provides for payment of severance when leaving in good standing based upon accrued and unused sick time, allowing for one-half of accrued time up to 960 hours.

Previously, employees leaving service and eligible for severance, executed the agreement and waiver of claims with human resources. With a new city attorney reviewing the city’s processes and procedures, the city has made several process changes at his request, City Administrator Cal Portner said. Current counsel would like severance and waiver of claims agreements approved by the City Council, Portner said.

Portner said Hecker has decided to retire after nearly 13 years of city service. Employees sign their waiver of claims on their last day of employment and have a 15-day rescission period before the actual payment. Hecker’s last day was on April 9.