Civil Service Commission

About the Civil Service Commission: The Mercer Island Police and Fire Civil Service Commission was established in accordance with state Civil Service law governing police and fire (Chapters 41.08 and 41.12 RCW). The Civil Service Commission has such duties and responsibilities as set forth by state law and city code. The Commission is concerned with the selection, appointment and employment of police officers and firefighters of the City.

The Commission is comprised of three Mercer Island citizens who are appointed by the City Manager for a six-year term. The Civil Service Commission currently meets on the second Tuesday of each month, at 5:00 p.m. at City Hall. The meeting date and time can be changed by the mutual consent of the Commissioners. The meetings average 30-60 minutes in length. The major duties of the Commission are to oversee the process of hiring police officers and firefighters, approve hiring lists, and ensure that police officers and firefighters are treated equitably and fairly in disciplinary actions.

Civil Service Commissioners should have interests in the areas of law, labor relations, and human resources. Members should be able to commit to an estimated two hours per month to Commission activities. On rare occasions, the Commissioners may be required to devote more time to Commission activities in the event of police or fire testing, a disciplinary hearing or an arbitration.

Other regular attendees of the meetings include: Police Chief Ed Holmes, Fire Chief Steve Heitman, Deputy Chief Mike Madella, Police Commanders Dave Jokinen & Jeff Magnan, Personnel & Training Sergeant Mike Seifert.  Human Resources Director Kryss Segle, serves as Secretary/Chief Examiner and is the primary staff liaison for the Commission.