Apply Now to Merit System Protection Board - Application deadline is Wednesday, September 26 by 5:00 p.m.

We're accepting applications from qualified voters of the County for appointment to a three-year term on the Merit System Protection Board. Generally, the Board is expected to oversee the Merit System and to protect employee and applicant rights guaranteed under the County Merit System. Here's the full press release:

ROCKVILLE, Md., September 5, 2018 - The Montgomery County Council is accepting applications from qualified voters of the County for appointment to a three-year term on the Merit System Protection Board. The term of Angela Franco (Republican) will expire on December 31. Ms. Franco has indicated that she plans to apply for reappointment. Applications must be received in the Council office by 5 p.m. on Wednesday, September 26. 

In addition to Ms. Franco, current members of the board are Michael Kator (Democrat) and Harriet Davidson (Democrat). By law, no more than two of the three members of the Merit System Protection Board may be of the same political party. The appointee for this position may be a Republican or a voter who declines to affiliate with a party, or a voter who is a member of another party officially recognized by the Board of Elections.

Generally, the board is expected to oversee the Merit System and to protect employee and applicant rights guaranteed under the County Merit System. There are two methods in which the board processes appeals:
• A written decision issued after a review and discussion of a written record.
• A written decision issued after a pre-hearing conference and a formal hearing in cases involving a suspension, demotion, or dismissal.
The Board, on a periodic basis, also conducts special studies, audits, or inquiries of the administration of the merit and retirement pay systems and, in this effort, may compel the attendance of witnesses. Written reports of its findings and recommendations are filed with the County Executive and the County Council. The Board also provides comments on any proposed changes in Merit System law or regulations.
 
The Board generally holds hearings during the day, which may take the full day, with any additional proceedings normally scheduled for subsequent days or evening(s). The Board normally meets once per month during the day for approximately two hours. Additional time is also required for preparatory work. 
Members of the Board currently receive $7,929 per year, which is adjusted annually to reflect 50 percent of the percentage change in the Washington Area Consumer Price Index. The Chair receives $10,170 per year.
 
Boardmembers are restricted in political activity while serving. Section 403 of the County Charter states, in part: “No member shall hold political office or participate in any campaign for any political or public office during the member’s term of office.” 
Members of County Boards, Committees and Commissions may not serve on more than one such group at a time.

Letters expressing interest, including a resume listing professional and civic experience, political party affiliation, home and office telephone numbers, and an email address should be addressed to: Council President Hans Riemer, County Council Office, 100 Maryland Avenue, Rockville, Maryland 20850, or can be emailed to county.council@montgomerycountymd.gov. Letters of application must be received no later than 5 p.m. on September 26, 2018. It is the Council’s policy not to consider applications received after the deadline. After the application closing date, Councilmembers will review the letters of application and may select applicants for interview.

Letters of application and resumes are made public as part of the appointment process. Any interviews held are open to the public and will be televised. A financial statement of assets, debts, income, and family property interests will be required of all applicants. Only the appointed candidate will be required to make the financial statement available to the public.