Title
Consider approval of the employment agreement with Ray Buenaventura as Public Defender for the County of Monterey and authorize the Chair of the Board to execute the agreement.
Report
RECOMMENDATION:
It is recommended that the Board of Supervisors:
a. Approve the employment agreement with Ray Buenaventura as Public Defender for the County of Monterey; and,
b. Authorize the Chair of the Board to execute the agreement.
SUMMARY:
The County of Monterey retained Bob Murray & Associates to conduct an open, nationwide, competitive recruitment for the position of Public Defender. After conducting the selection process, it is recommended that the employment agreement for Ray Buenaventura as the Public Defender be approved and executed.
DISCUSSION:
The Public Defender is responsible for the development, administration, and direction of the County’s program for legal defense for those needing services as mandated in California Government Code, section 27706.
The Board of Supervisors recently selected Ray Buenaventura as Public Defender. It is necessary and appropriate to authorize the execution of an employment agreement for Mr. Buenaventura’s services, pursuant to Government Code section, 27703 et seq. and Monterey County Code, section 2.22.020: Appointment. The terms of the agreement have been negotiated by and are satisfactory to the County and Mr. Buenaventura. The terms are consistent with Step 3 of the County’s published salary schedule for the position and the County’s Personnel Policies and Practices Resolution No. 98-394.
OTHER AGENCY INVOLVEMENT/COMMITTEE ACTIONS:
The County Administrative Officer reviewed and concurs with the recommended actions. The Office of the County Counsel approves the employment agreement as to form.
FINANCING:
Costs associated with this agreement are included in the FY 2025-26 Adopted Budget for the Office of the Public Defender.
BOARD OF SUPERVISORS STRATEGIC PLAN GOALS:
The appointment of a Public Defender will allow for the management and oversight of operational activities at the Office of the Public Defender.
Mark a check to the related Board of Supervisors Strategic Plan Goals:
___ Well-Being and Quality of Life
___ Sustainable Infrastructure for the Present and Future
___ Safe and Resilient Communities
___ Diverse and Thriving Economy
X Administrative: This report references the following applicable codes and resolutions. Associated links are attached to this report for reference.
• California Government Code, section 27706
• California Government Code, section 27703 et seq.
• Monterey County Code, section 2.22.020
• County’s Personnel Policies and Practices Resolution No. 98-394.
Prepared by: Karina Bokanovich, Management Analyst
Approved by: Sonia M. De La Rosa, County Administrative Officer
Attachments:
Employment Agreement
Links to associated Codes and Resolution