Tag Archives: California joint powers insurance authority

California JPIA Welcomes Maintenance Worker Garret Marchese

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Garret MarcheseThe California Joint Powers Insurance Authority (California JPIA) welcomes Maintenance Worker Garret Marchese, whose professional background includes working in the private and public sectors and the United States military.

Marchese joined the Authority this February and will support Facilities Specialist Chris Yanonis. He will be responsible for building, grounds, and facilities maintenance.

“Garret is a welcome addition to the Authority family,” said Finance Director Jason McBride. “His enthusiasm, dedication, and desire to make a positive impact, along with his skill set in facilities maintenance, make him a very good fit for his new role.”

Marchese’s professional journey began at age 18 when he joined the United States Marine Corps. He performed military engineering tasks and construction and demolition duties as a combat engineer.

“In the field, combat engineers deal with whatever is thrown at them,” he said, describing the need for a resilient and adaptive mindset. “One minute, I could use a metal detector to locate and destroy improvised explosive devices; the next minute, I could figure out the most effective and efficient way to create a bunker for cover.”

Following his time in the Marine Corps, Marchese returned to school while working as a hood tech and manager at Masterlube Auto Garage. After receiving an associate degree in social and behavioral science, he began service as a custodian with the Norwalk-La Mirada Unified School District.

“In the two short years I worked with the district, I built a name for myself as a hard worker who set high standards and eventually became a grounds person,” he said. “I thought the district would be my last employer, but, fortunately, the Authority needed a new maintenance worker. I have been chasing that title, and holding it high and proud feels good.”

“Garret’s versatile background, dedication, and enthusiasm make him a valuable team member,” said Yanonis.

Marchese looks forward to building a wide variety of skills and expanding his potential at the Authority.

“I am excited to become part of this amazing team and can’t wait to see what the future has to offer,” he said.

Providing innovative risk management solutions for its public agency partners for more than 45 years, the California Joint Powers Insurance Authority (California JPIA) is one of the largest municipal self-insurance pools in the state, with more than 125 member cities and other governmental agencies. Members actively participate in shaping the organization to provide important coverage for their operations. The California JPIA provides innovative risk management solutions through a comprehensive portfolio of programs and services, including liability, workers’ compensation, pollution, property, and earthquake coverage, as well as extensive training and loss control services. For more information, please visit the California JPIA’s website at cjpia.org.

California JPIA Shares Insights at CSMFO, Cal Cities City Managers, and PARMA Conferences

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California JPIA Shares Insights at CSMFO, Cal Cities City Managers, and PARMA Conferences California Joint Powers Insurance Authority (California JPIA) staff members addressed the latest trends impacting local government agencies by sharing knowledge and best practices with municipal staff and industry peers at three important conferences: the 2024 California Society of Municipal Finance Officers (CSMFO) Conference, May the Magic of Finance Be with You, the 2024 League of California Cities City Managers Conference, and the Public Agency Risk Management Association (PARMA) 50th Annual Conference and Expo. 

CSMFO promotes excellence in financial management through innovation, continuing education, and professional development. The CSMFO Annual Conference in Anaheim, January 30–February 2, featured educational and motivational sessions, networking events, and an exhibit hall. 

In their panel presentation, “Emerging Trends: The Evolving State of the Insurance Market,” California JPIA CEO Alex Smith and Finance Director Jason McBride discussed the current state of the insurance market, including emerging trends shaping the landscape. Managing Director of BMS Group, Hannah Watkins, and Senior Vice President of Alliant Insurance Services, Inc., Rob Lowe, rounded out the panel, sharing the challenges of the current insurance market conditions and countermeasures for cyber security risk. 

The League of California Cities (Cal Cities) defends and expands local government control through advocacy efforts. Cal Cities also offers education and training programs designed to teach city officials about new developments in their field and allow for the exchange of solutions to common challenges facing their cities. The Cal Cities City Managers Conference in Hollywood, February 7–9, welcomed 500 city managers, assistant city managers, and deputy city managers from across the state who equipped themselves with essential information and updates to run their cities effectively. 

When confronted with complaints against their city’s elected officials, city managers may walk a delicate tightrope. California JPIA Employment Practices Manager Kelly Trainer Policky moderated a panel of experts on this topic at the League of California Cities City Managers Conference. The discussion, titled “Walking the Line: Addressing Complaints Against Elected Officials,” provided vital insights and strategies for navigating these complex situations. 

Session speakers included Renne Public Management Group Executive Director Nelson A. Fialho, Van Dermyden Makus Law Corporation Managing Partner Eli Makus, and Atkinson, Andelson, Loya, Ruud & Romo Partner Jenica Maldonado. Each panelist provided practical guidance on key legal considerations, offering insights into the specific challenges that arise when the subject of an investigation holds a position of authority. 

The discussion centered on internal investigations, providing insight into inquiries, legal matters, and best practices for navigating sensitive situations. As they walked the conference attendees through the discussion questions for consideration, the panelists weighed in on best practices for navigating these sensitive situations and shared experiences encountered throughout their careers. 

“City managers face an influx of difficult tasks every day,” said Trainer Policky. “It was my pleasure to join this panel on guiding city managers through complaints against elected official complaints. Bringing intentionality to each step of this process is of the utmost importance, from your initial response to receiving a complaint to disclosing investigation results.” 

PARMA is an association dedicated to the professional development of California public agency risk managers and other municipal staff who support risk management in their organizations. It is guided by a cadre of volunteer leaders, including four California JPIA staff members: Workers’ Compensation Program Manager Jeff Rush, who serves as president; Claims and Insurance Director Paul Zeglovitch, who is the Secretary/Treasurer; Insurance Programs Manager Jim Thyden, who is a past-president and member; and Risk Services Director Alex Mellor, who, along with Jim, serve as members of the conference planning committee. 

Trainer Policky provided additional employment expertise at the PARMA Conference in Indian Wells, February 20–23. During her session, titled “Under Pressure: Top Ten Mistakes Employers Make in Preventing and Responding to Harassment,” she dove into responding to employee complaints with empathy.

“When California JPIA staff present at conferences and industry events, they provide relevant information and engage with local government employees and elected officials,” stated Smith. “We seek to add value by spotlighting the importance of best practices in risk management and good governance.” 

Providing innovative risk management solutions for its public agency partners for more than 45 years, the California Joint Powers Insurance Authority (California JPIA) is one of the largest municipal self-insurance pools in the state, with more than 125 member cities and other governmental agencies. Members actively participate in shaping the organization to provide important coverage for their operations. The California JPIA provides innovative risk management solutions through a comprehensive portfolio of programs and services, including liability, workers’ compensation, pollution, property, and earthquake coverage, as well as extensive training and loss control services. For more information, please visit the California JPIA’s website at cjpia.org.  

California JPIA Promotes Abraham Han to Senior Risk Manager

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Abraham HanThe California Joint Powers Insurance Authority (California JPIA) has promoted Abraham Han from management analyst to senior risk manager. In his new role, he will support training, risk management, claims, and finance activities for the Authority’s members in Imperial, Riverside, and San Diego counties. 

“Over his eight years at the Authority, Abe’s journey has been characterized by continuous growth, impactful contributions, and a steadfast commitment to supporting member agencies,” said Alex Smith, the Authority’s CEO. 

During his tenure at the Authority, Han has managed programs and resources that assist members in sidewalk maintenance, risk technician assignments, fire and law enforcement policy manuals, and training updates. He also analyzed and reported on legislative action at the state level. Through the Authority’s ADA Assistance and ADA Financing Programs, Han also helped members obtain funding to develop their ADA transition plans and remove barriers to access. 

“As anyone who has worked with Abe will attest, he is kind, thoughtful, and always willing to lend a hand. Abe is also a skilled analyst with the ability to carefully consider alternatives before deciding on the appropriate path forward,” said Risk Services Director Alex Mellor. I am confident Region 4 members will enjoy working with Abe and benefit from his support in identifying and implementing solutions to complex risk management challenges.” 

Reflecting on his time at the California JPIA, Han noted, “Every position, every project, every interaction from the time I began until now has represented a meaningful progression.” 

Han, who interned with the cities of Garden Grove and Villa Park, joined the Authority in 2015 from the City of La Habra Heights, where he advanced his career from intern to management analyst to senior management analyst. He holds a bachelor’s degree in economics from the University of Southern California and a master’s degree in public administration from California State University, San Bernardino. 

“My experience working for smaller cities provided a deep understanding of the trials of managing risk alongside other challenges, such as budgetary constraints,” said Han. “Each decision at the local government level requires a balance. Having personally experienced this, I look forward to helping the Authority’s members, especially when resources such as time and staffing are stretched thin. I want members to feel assured they have someone they can have honest conversations with and lean on.” 

“Abe’s impressive professional development over the years has enabled him to deliver valuable support to members and is a source of pride for us,” said Smith. “His promotion underscores our dedication to nurturing and acknowledging outstanding talent within the organization. His expertise and commitment to customer service align well with our goals of operational excellence, innovation, and proactive risk management.” 

Providing innovative risk management solutions for its public agency partners for more than 45 years, the California Joint Powers Insurance Authority (California JPIA) is one of the largest municipal self-insurance pools in the state, with more than 125 member cities and other governmental agencies. Members actively participate in shaping the organization to provide important coverage for their operations. The California JPIA provides innovative risk management solutions through a comprehensive portfolio of programs and services, including liability, workers’ compensation, pollution, property, and earthquake coverage, as well as extensive training and loss control services. For more information, please visit the California JPIA’s website at cjpia.org.  

California JPIA Promotes Alex Mellor to Risk Services Director

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Alex MellorThe California Joint Powers Insurance Authority (California JPIA) has promoted Alex Mellor from senior risk manager to risk services director.

“Mr. Mellor has successfully provided high-quality risk management support to members for 11 years,” said California JPIA Chief Executive Officer Alex Smith, expressing his appreciation for Mellor’s contributions. “His approachable nature, sincerity, and kindness are unmistakable and will become increasingly more valuable to the whole organization as he takes on greater responsibility.”

In his new role, Mellor will lead the California JPIA’s risk management services, managing and supporting the senior risk managers and overseeing the performance of risk assessments, evaluation of municipal operations, development of action plans for exposure reduction, and communication regarding programs, services, claims, and training opportunities.

“I intend to align the Authority’s risk management initiatives with member goals,” said Mellor, who seeks to raise the bar for member service. “The risk management team’s goals are to be responsive and partner with members to help solve complex risk management issues while being considerate of non-risk management factors that may impact decision-making.”

As a senior risk manager, Mellor served the Authority’s members in Imperial, Riverside, and San Diego counties. “This transition won’t affect the excellent service and support our members expect from the California JPIA,” said Mellor. “I intend to work closely with my replacement to ensure a seamless transition.”

Mellor joined the Authority as a regional risk manager in 2012 from RehabWest, a workers’ compensation managed care company. He holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in law and society from the University of California, Santa Barbara. He is a credentialed Associate in Risk Management and Certified Ergonomic Assessment Specialist. He chairs the Public Agency Risk Management Association’s San Diego/Imperial Valley Chapter and serves as a member of its conference planning committee.

“With the Executive Committee’s support, the Authority’s executive management team has developed an organizational culture emphasizing excellence, innovation, teamwork, and integrity,” said Mellor. “I am excited about what the future holds as we continue to partner with members to ensure the communities they serve have the necessary resources to provide critical public services.”

Providing innovative risk management solutions for its public agency partners for more than 45 years, the California Joint Powers Insurance Authority (California JPIA) is one of the largest municipal self-insurance pools in the state, with more than 125 member cities and other governmental agencies. Members actively participate in shaping the organization to provide important coverage for their operations. The California JPIA provides innovative risk management solutions through a comprehensive portfolio of programs and services, including liability, workers’ compensation, pollution, property, and earthquake coverage, as well as extensive training and loss control services. For more information, please visit the California JPIA’s website at cjpia.org.

California JPIA Member Aliso Viejo Takes Proactive Cybersecurity Measures

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As cyber threats evolve, the importance of proactive cybersecurity initiatives increases. The California Joint Powers Insurance Authority (California JPIA) commends the City of Aliso Viejo for prioritizing cybersecurity preparedness with its recent Cyber Attack Tabletop Exercise. This exercise is the first in which the Authority and Insurance Programs Manager Jim Thyden have participated with a member agency.

The tabletop exercise, organized by the City of Aliso Viejo, was a strategic simulation of a ransomware attack and brought together department heads, information technology staff, and partner agencies. For two hours, tabletop participants ran through—in real time—the various protocols, processes, and communication channels required to respond to the model scenario.

“Our goal with the tabletop exercise was to nail down the internal and external communication protocols,” said Aliso Viejo Senior Emergency Management Program Coordinator Sarah Limones. “As a contract city, Aliso Viejo contracts many of its services to different entities. We wanted to bring those partners together to ensure our cyber-attack response was well-coordinated and effective.”

The exercise drew out the complexities of a municipal cyber-attack response and the various inter- and intra-agency coordination. Participants transcended a technical discussion to focus on higher-level decision-making and strategies, which resulted in an improved and streamlined response plan. During the simulation, discussions ranged from public information management to continuing city services to financial and legal implications.

In addition to Aliso Viejo staff, the tabletop exercise engaged Orange County Sheriff’s Department members, the Orange County Intelligence Assessment Center, and even the Department of Homeland Security.

During the exercise, Thyden shared resources, recommendations, and processes to consider from a risk management perspective.

“Jim provided a wealth of knowledge and shared resources that we had no idea the California JPIA offered its member agencies,” said Limones. “That was a big lesson: That the city doesn’t have to do all of it on our own. The California JPIA has a lot of resources for us.”

Thyden applauded Aliso Viejo for coordinating the Cyber Attack Tabletop Exercise, which left the city and its agency partners better prepared for a future cyber threat.

“A tabletop exercise is immensely valuable because it is the only way to properly prepare for a scenario that has not happened but could happen,” said Thyden. “With the right assembled team and the right tabletop exercise, cities like Aliso Viejo can dramatically improve their cybersecurity preparedness.”

Providing innovative risk management solutions for its public agency partners for more than 45 years, the California Joint Powers Insurance Authority (California JPIA) is one of the largest municipal self-insurance pools in the state, with more than 125 member cities and other governmental agencies. Members actively participate in shaping the organization to provide important coverage for their operations. The California JPIA provides innovative risk management solutions through a comprehensive portfolio of programs and services, including liability, workers’ compensation, pollution, property, and earthquake coverage, as well as extensive training and loss control services. For more information, please visit the California JPIA’s website at cjpia.org.

The California JPIA Shares the Top Ten Mistakes Employers Make in Preventing and Responding to Harassment

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At the 2023 California Joint Powers Insurance Authority (California JPIA) Risk Management Educational Forum, Employment Practices Manager Kelly Trainer Policky, who manages the Authority’s Employment Hotline, shared the top ten mistakes employers make in preventing and responding to harassment. While the session was not recorded, if you could not attend or would like a refresher, below are the Top Ten Mistakes Employers Make in Preventing and Responding to Harassment.

10. Training Only for Legal Compliance
Beyond the training mandated for supervisors (AB 1825), non-supervisors (SB 1343), and (most) local government officials (AB 1661) — and encouraged for bystanders (SB 1300) — Trainer Policky encouraged members to use training to foster cultural change and enhance empathy. She suggested in-person training tailored to public agencies, small-group roundtables, and training aligned with organizational roles and levels.

9. Poor Policy Drafting
Trainer Policky identified harassment prevention policies, which must comply with the Fair Employment regulations outlined in Cal. Code Regs. Title 2, section 11023(b), as a primary opportunity for improvement. She outlined factors to consider, dated provisions to reassess, and new provisions to add.

8. Ignoring Informal Complaints
As best practices for addressing informal complaints, Trainer Policky encouraged members to educate supervisors on potential issues, provide practical scenarios for guidance, and encourage open communication and immediate action.

7. Not Understanding Intersectionality
In terms of harassment and discrimination, Trainer Policky explained that intersectionality means that there are multiple grounds for discrimination or harassment that operate simultaneously and inseparably, historically called a “sex plus” claim. She recommended educating professionals and investigators to ensure holistic responses to employees’ concerns and incorporating intersectionality into diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging initiatives.

6. Focusing on the Alleged Harasser’s Intent
“But they didn’t mean to offend…” is a common defense for harassers who did not realize their conduct created a hostile work environment. Trainer Policky encouraged members to shift focus from intent to impact in deference to the reasonable victim standard and to train employees in effective communication and soft skills.

5. Failing to Address Abusive Conduct
Abusive conduct is a problem not only on its own but also as a precursor to workplace harassment and/or violence. Trainer Policky provided guidance on addressing such conduct through education, policies, and procedures.

4. Using Unqualified or Inexperienced Investigators
The California Civil Rights Department’s Harassment Prevention Guide says that investigators should be knowledgeable about laws and policies relating to harassment, investigative techniques relating to questioning witnesses, documenting interviews, and analyzing information. Trainer Policky added that both internal and external investigators should be qualified, independent, and free from bias.

3. Failing to Take Appropriate Corrective Action
Trainer Policky discussed how corrective actions such as training, counseling, discipline, and other responses can help member agencies meet their legal obligations to take reasonable steps to prevent and correct unlawful behavior. She emphasized the importance of identifying the root cause of issues and selecting corrective actions to deter future harassment.

2. Failing to Bring Closure to Involved Parties
Closing investigations—even with a simple message telling the complainant, accused, and witnesses that the investigation has concluded and thanking them for their cooperation—can reinforce organizational communication and transparency. Trainer Policky recommended providing clear, written notifications to all parties involved, addressing the outcome and any corrective actions taken. Following internal policies and MOU/CBA requirements ensures a consistent and fair approach to closure.

1. Failing to Hold Supervisors Accountable
Supervisors play a crucial role in maintaining a positive workplace culture. Trainer Policky noted that employers could empower supervisors to lead by example and contribute to a harassment-free environment by setting clear expectations, providing resources, and promptly addressing concerns.

Providing innovative risk management solutions for its public agency partners for more than 45 years, the California Joint Powers Insurance Authority (California JPIA) is one of the largest municipal self-insurance pools in the state, with more than 125 member cities and other governmental agencies. Members actively participate in shaping the organization to provide important coverage for their operations. The California JPIA provides innovative risk management solutions through a comprehensive portfolio of programs and services, including liability, workers’ compensation, pollution, property, and earthquake coverage, as well as extensive training and loss control services. For more information, please visit the California JPIA’s website at cjpia.org.

California JPIA Team Continues Its Tradition of Community Service

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Photo of JPIA Team at Community ServiceDuring November and December 2023, staff at the California Joint Powers Insurance Authority (California JPIA) took part in a donation drive for the Orangewood Foundation, an organization providing support to current and former foster youth in Orange County. This effort aimed to offer hope to local youth facing challenges while providing a way for staff to contribute time and resources during the holiday season.

Management Analyst Courtney Morrison, Senior Risk Manager Alex Mellor, and Administrative Assistant Jennifer Torres spearheaded the donation drive.

“Embracing community service is ingrained in our culture at the Authority. Our commitment to supporting local organizations, like the Orangewood Foundation, is a longstanding tradition that both serves the community and brings our staff closer together,” said Morrison.

The Orangewood Foundation is one of the leading service providers to current and former foster youth in Orange County, annually helping almost 2,000 young people prepare for independent adulthood.

The Authority typically organizes a food drive for Orangewood around the holiday season, but this year, to address more pressing needs, Morrison, Mellor, and Torres coordinated a donation drive for personal hygiene kits. To rally staff and provide some holiday cheer, the donation organizers arranged for a friendly team competition, challenging each other to assemble the most kits.

Donated hygiene kits, non-perishable food, and items from Orangewood’s wish list

The donated hygiene kits, non-perishable food, and items from Orangewood’s wish list were delivered to the foundation’s Santa Ana location in December.

“Authority staff are deeply committed and proud to partner with Orangewood Foundation, a local beacon of support for youth, offering essential services such as health and wellness, housing, life skills, education, and employment assistance. The success of these young individuals is a triumph for the entire community. It showcases the powerful impact of a dedicated support system,” said California JPIA Chief Executive Officer Alex Smith.

Visit the Orangewood Foundation website for volunteer opportunities and to learn more about their services.

Providing innovative risk management solutions for its public agency partners for more than 45 years, the California Joint Powers Insurance Authority (California JPIA) is one of the largest municipal self-insurance pools in the state, with more than 125 member cities and other governmental agencies. Members actively participate in shaping the organization to provide important coverage for their operations. The California JPIA provides innovative risk management solutions through a comprehensive portfolio of programs and services, including liability, workers’ compensation, pollution, property, and earthquake coverage, as well as extensive training and loss control services. For more information, please visit the California JPIA’s website at cjpia.org.

California JPIA Recognizes Milestone Anniversary for Paul Zeglovitch

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Photo of Paul ZeglovitchThe California Joint Powers Insurance Authority (California JPIA) congratulates Claims and Insurance Director Paul Zeglovitch, who celebrates his milestone 15th anniversary in December.

“As the calendar pages turn, certain milestones compel us to pause and reflect,” said California JPIA Chief Executive Officer Alex Smith. “This month marks a significant one for our organization as we celebrate the 15-year anniversary of Paul Zeglovitch. It’s not just about the number of years, but about his incredible journey, meaningful relationships, countless contributions, and stalwart support and defense of our members.”

Zeglovitch joined the California JPIA in 2008 and was promoted from liability program manager to claims and insurance director in November. He manages all aspects of the liability protection program, including the program’s third-party administrator and defense panel attorneys representing more than 20 law firms from San Diego to San Francisco.
In his new role, Zeglovitch manages the Authority’s employment assistance and intervention program. He also leads the Authority’s claims and insurance team, including Administrative Analyst Edith Aviña, Employment Practices Manager Kelly Trainer Policky, Workers’ Compensation Program Manager Jeff Rush, and Insurance Programs Manager Jim Thyden. Chris Kustra, an account manager at Carl Warren & Company, supports the team. He leverages his technical knowledge of claims and litigation to present cases to the Executive Committee and represent the California JPIA during members’ council meetings.

Zeglovitch said members would benefit from the new team’s increased collaboration and collective wisdom: “By working together more formally, we can facilitate problem-solving and develop more creative solutions. I am excited to help motivate and inspire others within our organization.”

The California JPIA offers members both primary and excess liability coverage that includes bodily injury, personal injury, or property damage to a third party resulting from a member activity, as well as employment practices liability. Zeglovitch supports claims management through a collaborative consultation process with members.

“The Authority’s level of involvement with the members is tremendous,” said Zeglovitch. “We support them from a liability standpoint, whether it’s legal opinions, contract review, or expert evaluations. Our risk managers are essentially an extension of the members’ staff. Everyone works together to respond as quickly as possible to the members’ needs.”

Throughout each coverage period, Zeglovitch monitors the Authority’s Memorandum of Coverage – Liability Program for sections that should be considered for clarification, amendment, or change. Annually, he partners with an independent auditor to review and grade the Authority’s third-party liability claims administrator’s service in investigation, reporting, litigation management, reserving, and technology. The auditor analyzes the quality of the claims handling, completes a holistic overview of the program, and provides recommendations for improvement.

“The audit provides a comprehensive look at the Authority’s claims management process,” he said. “It’s a good indication of how our claims were handled by our adjusters, supervisors, and account manager during the year.”

As host of the California JPIA’s annual Liability Attorney Summit, Zeglovitch moderates a forum about emerging case law, litigation strategies, and liability claims trends. The summit includes representatives from the Authority’s liability third-party claims administrator, defense panel firms, business partners, and Authority staff.

“Paul is the heart and soul of our liability program,” said Smith. “For a decade and a half, he has skillfully guided us through difficult litigation, nuanced and evolving case law, tough mediations, and countless legal issues impacting public agencies in California. Paul’s ability to rally and lead our distinguished panel of defense attorneys and our dedicated claims management team has been nothing less than extraordinary. He works tirelessly to deliver the best possible results because he cares deeply about our members and is committed to their success. Paul is well-known for his claims management expertise and unwavering tenacity; he is also a gifted communicator. He understands the important work that needs to be done but always takes time to make personal connections along the way. Paul brings people together and doesn’t just lead; he inspires.”

Zeglovitch was also integral in creating the Authority’s Employment Intervention Program (now known as the Employment Hotline), which assists members facing challenging employment action and reduces employment practices claims. The Employment Hotline helps members address employment matters that range from straightforward questions to complex investigations, including discipline, harassment and discrimination complaints, suspicion of criminal activity, and reasonable accommodation of disabilities.

“Our Employment Intervention Program has had some excellent results, including having people return to work and become great employees, which is the home run,” he said. “The program has grown steadily over the years and continues to be more successful year after year. We have been fortunate to partner with Burke, Williams & Sorensen, LLP on this endeavor for over ten years and, more recently, to add former Burke partner Kelly Trainer Policky as an Authority staff member.”

Zeglovitch presented at the Public Agency Risk Management Association (PARMA) Annual Conference earlier this year. In “Managing Employment Practices Liability Exposures – Where Do You Start?,” Zeglovitch and Carl Warren & Company Liability Pool Claims Manager Chris Kustra discussed how to prepare and train managers, conduct pre-claim collaboration with qualified counsel, and litigate employment practice liability cases. The prior year, Zeglovitch, along with Kustra and Collins + Collins LLP Partner Michael Wroniak, presented “Liability Claim Reserving and Case Evaluation,” sharing their expertise about how third-party administrators and claims managers set reserves on liability claims and lawsuits, as well as factors that affect the valuation of claims and cases.

Zeglovitch was a claims supervisor at Carl Warren & Company, where he worked for 16 years. He holds a B.A. in business from the State University of New York at Buffalo and is a credentialed Associate in Risk Management, specializing in public entities. Previously a director, he now serves as secretary/treasurer for PARMA.

“We are fortunate to have Paul in our corner and immensely grateful for his knowledge and leadership,” said Smith. “We congratulate him on achieving this significant milestone and look forward to many more years of teamwork and excellent service to members.”

Providing innovative risk management solutions for its public agency partners for more than 45 years, the California Joint Powers Insurance Authority (California JPIA) is one of the largest municipal self-insurance pools in the state, with more than 125 member cities and other governmental agencies. Members actively participate in shaping the organization to provide important coverage for their operations. The California JPIA provides innovative risk management solutions through a comprehensive portfolio of programs and services, including liability, workers’ compensation, pollution, property, and earthquake coverage, as well as extensive training and loss control services. For more information, please visit the California JPIA’s website at cjpia.org.

California JPIA Recognizes Capstone Award Winner Audrey Cray

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The California Joint Powers Insurance Authority (California JPIA) congratulates Audrey Cray, finance and risk manager for the City of Pacific Grove, who received the 10th annual Capstone Award at the California JPIA’s 28th Annual Risk Management Educational Forum in Carlsbad.

“Audrey is deserving of this award for so many reasons,” said California JPIA Senior Risk Manager Tim Karcz. “I think one of the best reasons is that she’s a very proactive risk manager. She’s very attentive. She is involved in every single operation within the city, whether it be the police department, parks and recreation, or city hall and administration.”

Cray upholds Pacific Grove’s culture of safety by initiating programs, hosting California JPIA-sponsored training sessions, and facilitating city-wide safety meetings. She also shares information about organization-wide training goals and provides quarterly reports to the Pacific Grove City Council on workers’ compensation information, including claim statistics and safety program efforts.

“I think one of the more innovative projects that Audrey spearheaded was the Safety Incentive Program,” said Karcz. “It’s a very employee-focused program, one that rewards and incentivizes safety performance and being involved in worker safety in general.”

The Safety Incentive Program requires departments to participate in basic safety activities and rewards employees who go above and beyond the standard requirements.

“Audrey has done fabulous work on the city’s Safety Incentive Program,” said Pacific Grove Administrative Services Director and Interim City Manager Victoria Hannah. “Audrey jumped right in. She has the personality to really bring people together.”

The Capstone Award is presented annually to an individual at a California JPIA member agency who exemplifies the practice of risk management by supporting risk management efforts, coordinating risk management goals and programs, and mitigating risk exposures for their agency.

The 2023 finalists also included:

  • Alexa Davis, Assistant City Manager, City of Rolling Hills Estates
  • Heather Reiter, Training and Safety Specialist, Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District
  • Linda Reid, City Clerk / Human Resources Director, City of Buellton
  • Raylette Felton, Deputy City Manager / Human Resources and Risk Manager, City of Lawndale

“I would like to thank the California JPIA for this esteemed award,” said Cray. “Being nominated alongside such amazing risk managers was an honor in itself, and to have won is a deeply meaningful milestone in my professional journey.”

To learn more about the Capstone Award and view the finalist videos, visit the award webpage.

Providing innovative risk management solutions for its public agency partners for more than 45 years, the California Joint Powers Insurance Authority (California JPIA) is one of the largest municipal self-insurance pools in the state, with more than 125 member cities and other governmental agencies. Members actively participate in shaping the organization to provide important coverage for their operations. The California JPIA provides innovative risk management solutions through a comprehensive portfolio of programs and services, including liability, workers’ compensation, pollution, property, and earthquake coverage, as well as extensive training and loss control services. For more information, please visit the California JPIA’s website at cjpia.org.

California JPIA Recognizes 5-Year Milestone Anniversary for Veronica Ruiz

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Veronica RuizThis August, California Joint Powers Insurance Authority (California JPIA) Agency Clerk Veronica Ruiz commemorates five years of maintaining records and providing administrative support to the Authority’s governing bodies.

“Veronica’s organizational skills are unsurpassed. She plays a vital role in organizing our Finance Directors, City Managers, Risk Managers, and Executive Committee meetings as well as our Annual Board of Directors meeting,” said California JPIA Chief Executive Officer Alex Smith. “She ensures we are complying with all applicable laws and regulations, and she always strives to learn more. She’s forward-thinking and anticipates problems. We are grateful to have her on our team.”

With more than 20 years of experience in the public sector, Ruiz joined the California JPIA as agency clerk in 2018. Before joining the Authority, she served eight years as the city clerk for the City of San Marino. She holds a Certified Municipal Clerk designation from the International Institute of City Clerks and maintains active memberships in the International Institute of City Clerks, the City Clerks Association of California, and the National Notary Association.

Reflecting on her decision to join the Authority, Ruiz shared, “I had never considered working for the Authority because I had spent my entire career working for local municipal governments. When the agency clerk position opened, I kept seeing the recruitment flyer everywhere I went–I think it was a sign, and friends had encouraged me to apply. I never looked back!”

Working for municipal agencies provided Ruiz with clerk expertise. However, since joining the California JPIA, she has gained an understanding of insurance pooling. Ruiz is well-versed in the claims process, the proactive approach the Authority takes to risk management, and the importance of training–all things that have helped her succeed in her position.

Within her role at the Authority, Ruiz manages the preparation of agendas and the agenda review process. She also coordinates meeting attendance and ensures minutes are compiled accurately for the Authority’s governing bodies and various committees. In addition, she oversees the Authority’s document and records management program, promptly responding to public records requests and serving as the Filing Officer for the Authority’s Statements of Economic Interests.

“Veronica is an incredible asset to the Authority, consistently exceeding expectations. Her skill set, professionalism, and impeccable time management place her firmly in the top one percent of all Municipal Clerks,” said California JPIA Administrative Services Director Nikki Salas. “She approaches her work with unwavering conscientiousness, and her dedication and enthusiasm inspire those around her, making her an absolute dream to work alongside.”

Ruiz works closely with the Authority’s Board of Directors and Executive Committee, two of the Authority’s governing bodies. She is also instrumental in coordinating the California JPIA’s Annual Meeting of the Board of Directors each July.

“The organization is like no other I have worked for, and they have such high regard for their employees,” said Ruiz. “I refer to the Authority as my Camelot.”

 

Providing innovative risk management solutions for its public agency partners for more than 45 years, the California Joint Powers Insurance Authority (California JPIA) is one of the largest municipal self-insurance pools in the state, with more than 125 member cities and other governmental agencies. Members actively participate in shaping the organization to provide important coverage for their operations. The California JPIA provides innovative risk management solutions through a comprehensive portfolio of programs and services, including liability, workers’ compensation, pollution, property, and earthquake coverage, as well as extensive risk management training and loss control services. For more information, please visit the California JPIA’s website at cjpia.org.