Truckee Meadows Water Authority’s (TMWA) board on Wednesday approved a 3 percent raise for general manager Mark Foree after giving him a glowing review.
Surveys were sent to the seven-member board and to seven employees who report to Foree. All board members and six direct reports completed the survey anonymously.
“Adapts to changing conditions, delegates responsibility when appropriate, listens and considers others’ input when making important decisions,” wrote one reviewer when describing Foree.
TMWA board member Vaughn Hartung said Foree has been able to successfully retain good employees.
“That is key and that’s the sign of a good manager,” Hartung said. “In my opinion, you’ve done a stellar job.”
Foree’s annual compensation will increase to $200,303, which is still below market data, TMWA human resources manager Jessica Atkinson indicated.
Current market data states a maximum achievable goal for the Reno market at this position is $237,114, according to Gallagher Benefit Services Inc., a risk management firm from which Atkinson sought input. Midpoint would be $222,768.
Foree discussed his objectives for the upcoming year, which include preparing and proposing financial plans, investment strategies, funding plans, and adjustments to rates and charges that will secure TMWA’s long term financial stability. Improving communication between TMWA and stakeholders, increasing community presence, continuing to create a highly productive work environment, and striving for continuous improvements that will enhance revenue and reduce operating costs were among others.
Any raise for Foree must get board approval because there’s no automatic cost of living adjustment written into his contract.
Last year, TMWA’s board approved a 4 percent raise for Foree. In 2015, it was 2.1 percent. In 2014, he got a 2 percent raise and $5,000 bonus. His pay increase in 2013 and 2012 was 3.73 percent and 5 percent, respectively.
The board declined to give Foree a bonus this year because it could result in poor public perception based on water rate increases that took effect in May.
