Personnel IVOLUME 20, NO.1 A news quarterly for and about Georgia State Employees I January 1996 4% Salary Increase Proposed, Go~ Miller Proposes Legislation LinkedTo Oct. 1Common Date To Phase In Unclassified Service Gov. Zell Miller has included a proposed four percent pay increase for state employees in his FY 1997 budget package. The (Editors Note: Paul Burkhalter, Miller said in his State of the State agencies it is supposed to serve and increase is linked to a Common Anniversary Date-Oct. 1, 1996- director of the Program Support Address. "Not the first one." support. There is no doubt that this for all employees. Division of the Department of This legislation closely tracks the is a critical system and agencies The budget proposal also stipulates that the increase is "in Natural Resources, is a member of recommendations of a statewide cannot be saddled with one that is conformance with the implementation ofthe GeorgiaGain pay-for- the Governor's Task Force on task force chaired by Joe Tanner, outdated and has outlived its performance system." Personnel Administration.) former Commissioner of the purpose. Agency heads need the The Oct. 1 date comes at the end of the first Performance Department of Natural Resources tools to get the job done for the Management Process (PMP) cycle. An employee must receive a By Paul Burkhalter who currently heads the Governor's citizens of this State." performance rating of at least "meets expectations" on his or her Governor Zell Miller has proposed Commission on Privatization. The The proposed legislation details annual performance appraisal in order to receive the increase. legislation, introduced during this task force was made up of state the new roles and responsibilities All eligible employees will get the same percentage increase on session of the General Assembly, agency heads, line managers and of the state agencies and the State Oct. 1, 1996. The first variable pay increases based on performance that will require that all positions personnel directors, as well as a Me'i-it System in administering the are scheduled for Oct. 1, 1997. filled on or after Jilly 1, 1996, be senior official of a respected State's personnel administration (See Increase, Page 2.) placed in the unclassified service. private personnel administration system. The new system will be However, any employee who is consulting firm. The task force phased in gradually over the next currently in a position covered found that the present system of several years and will require an MasseyIs by the classified service prior to personnel administration, created ongoing partnership between the July 1, 1996, shall remain in the over 50 years ago, was in need of Merit System and the agencies. classified service so long as significant changes. The Merit System will continue Appointed the employee remains in that Tanner noted that "the main thing to perform many of its current covered position. we want to accomplish here is to responsibilities. In addition, it will "My plan will have absolutely no make Georgia state government's define common job classes in the Sec. ofState effect on the job security of a single system ofpersonnel administration unclassified service and associated present state employee," Governor more responsive to the needs ofthe minimum qualifications for those classes; develop applicant Gov. Zell Miller has appointed Garner New Commissioner screening devices being used by the agencies; and establish and Lewis Massey ofAtlanta to succeed Max Cleland as Secretary of State. Cleland resigned effective Jan. 5 maintain' a statewide system ofpay For Corrections Department ranges for all job classes. "To ensure that our new state to seek the Democratic nomination Gov. Zell Miller has named compensation plan is fair-and that for the U.S. Senate seat being Wayne Gamer as commissioner of is very important to me-we will vacated by Sen. Sam Nunn. the Department of Corrections. continue to maintain a system of In announcing the appointment, He replaces Commissioner Allen statewide pay ranges which will Gov. Miller described Massey as "the most qualified applicant-he Lewis-Massey Ault, who accepted a position as director of the National Academy apply to both classified and unclassified workers," Governor will make an excellent secretary School in 1980, and earned a of Corrections in Colorado. Miller said. of state." B.B.A. degree with a major in "As Pardons and Paroles Board Working alongside the State At the time of his appointment, finance from the University of chairman, Wayne Garner was Merit System, the agencies will: Massey was vice president ofBank Georgia in 1984. dedicated to protecting the law- -define agency-unique job South Securities Corporation. He He is a member of the UGA abiding citizens of Georgia," Gov. classes in the unclassified service, previously served as chief of staff Young Alumni Council and a Miller said. along with associated qualifications; to Lt. Gov. Pierre Howard. Business School Outstanding "He's been tough but fair, and -assign these job classes to In 1986, Massey managed the Young Alumnus. under his leadership, there has been appropriate pay ranges on the reelection campaign of Gov. Joe A Leadership Georgia and Cobb no coddling of criminals. I have statewide compensation plan; Frank Harris. After serving as a participant, he also serves on the every confidence that he will -administer applicant screening special assistant to Governor Harris Board of the American Cancer continue to make the safety of devices to ensure the integrity of for two years, Massey left that Society, has served as a board Georgians his top priority." the selection process, as well as position to manage Pierre Howard's member of the Eagle Ranch Home Gamer had served on the Board campaign for lieutenant governor. for Boys, arid is a member of the ofPardons and Paroles since 1993. Wayne Garner -develop policies that will ensure compliance with applicable Massey, 33, is a native of Peachtree Presbyterian Church, During his 1980-1993 tenure as a committees and was in the forefront employment-related federal and Gainesville in Hall County. He where he is an elder. He and his state senator, he served on the of support for the life without state laws. graduated fro!,ll Gainesyi1ler. Hjgh wife, Amy, have two children. Appropriations and Corrections parole and victims' rights bills. ,(See Unclassified, Page 2) Page 2 Donated Leave Option Under Review The State Personnel Board has been employed by the department received a proposed leave donation for at least one year and must re- policy for its consideration. tain a balance of at least 60 hours The proposal would allow of annual leave or sick leave, departments to adopt a departmen- whichever is donated. tal policy permitting eligible' -An eligible recipient also must employees to donate or receive have been employed for at least one leave from other employees ofthe year and must have exhausted all same department. accrued and forfeited leave and The proposed guidelines would compensatory time, as well as have stipulate that: been on authorized leave without -All donations of annual leave or pay for 80 consecutive hlJurs. The sick leave must be voluntary. total donation from all sources can- -An eligible donor must have not exceed 520 hours. Unclassified (from Page 1) "The Governor is commit~ed to it worked-and is working- maintaining a professional system very well." of personnel administration and As an additional safeguard to nothing will change overnight," Tanner said. "We are looking at a gradual transformation process with the best interests ofthe citizens and our employees always kept firmly in focus." "I'm sure one of the reasons the Governor selected me for this assignment is because of our very ensure that the operation ofthe new system, as it is phased in over the next several years, is based upon merit principles and high ethical standards, the State Merit Systelp will be authorized under the new law to conduct regular and comprehensive audits. "I assure you that hiring and keeping skilled, hard-working, HELPING SANTA-Department ofAdministrative Services (DOAS) employees celebrated the holiday season by making Christmas wishes come true for 236 children in seven Georgia counties served by the Department ofFamily and Children Services (DFCS). This was the second consecutive year DOASparticipated in DFCS' Secret Santa Program. The Secret Santa effort was coordinated by DOAS' Employee Relations Task Force. Employees received a personalized wish list complete with the child's name, age, size and three wishes. The dolls, teddy bears, bicycles, video games, footballs, jewelry, clothes and other toys were collected at the agency's Holiday Social, where employees brought their gifts wrapped and readyfor delivery to bring a smile to thefaces ofchildren in foster care on Christmas morning. DOAS Telecommunications Division employees Jim Anderson as Santa and Kim Cain as Mrs. Claus are shown with just a smallportion ofthe gifts collected. positive experience in the public service-oriented employees Department ofNatural Resources," will always be a high priority for Increase (from Page 1) Tanner added. "In 1984, DNR was authorized by law to transfer vacant positions from the classified service to the unclassified service. Classified employees and unclassified employees have been working side by side, and there has never been any problem. In DNR we were able to build a professional system for our classified and unclassified employees. And me," Governor Miller said. "I know we have many talented and committed employees who have dedicated lifetime careers to their work and the public they serVe. I have always believed that hard work and honest service is the best way to make sure that I keep my job, and that principle will also work for our hard-working, service-oriented state employees." "One key benefit of going to a Common Anniversary Date is that it allows all employees to be eligible for a pay increase at the same point in the fiscal year," State Merit System Commissioner Bobbie Jean Bennett said. Currently, an employee's salary increase eligibility date varies depending on his initial employment date and, therefore, could come as Implementation of a Common Anniversary Date also would allow the state to adjust entry-level salaries without inequity to employees already hired. Under the current system, it has been difficult to increase entrylevel salaries because the state didn't want to pay new employees more than incumbents on the same level whose anniversary dates- performance management components ofGeorgiaGain, Bennett said. Agencies will be better able to manage variable pay increases within a funding cycle if all the increases are awarded at the same time. From a management standpoint, the advantages cited are that it: -Requires concentrated focus on performance planning and performance evaluation. STATE PERSONNEL NEWS Volume 20, Number 1 late as the final month of the fiscal year in which an increase is granted. In order to transition to the Common Anniversary Date, those employeeswhose salary increase consideration dates fall within the first three months of the fiscal year- and therefore their eligibility for salary increases-fell later in the fiscal year than the new hire's initial date of employment, Commissioner Bennett explained. The Task Force for GeorgiaGain endorsed the Common Anniversary -Enables managers to better link performance planning to strategic planning. -Enables managers to measure employee performance as it relates to unit/agency goals. State Personnel Board M. David Alalof, Chair Geri P. Thomas, Vice Chair July, August and September- Date concept because it will facili- -Allows analysis of perfor- would not be eligible for an tate the state's implementation of mance score patterns by manager, increase until Oct. I. both the variable pay increase and unit, agency and statewide. Alfred K. Barr, Member Richard M. Ensley, Member GeorgiaGain Gears Up For Next Training Cycle For Managers, Supervisors State Merit System Bobbie Jean Bennett, Commissioner Martha E. Evans, Editor The State Personnel News is published quarterly for state employees by the Commissioner's Office of the State Merit System. If you have comments or questions, wish to submit material for publication, or need to correct a distribution problem/address, contact Martha Evans, Editor, State Personnel News, 200 Piedmont Avenue, SE, Suite 504 West Tower, Atlanta, GA 30334, or call 4041 656-2705 or GIST 221-2705. If you have a disability and need this material in an alternative format, notify tlie Editor at the above listed address, or for TDD Relay Service only: 1-800-255-0056 (text telephone) or 1-800-255-0135 (voice). The State Merit System is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The GeorgiaGain training team for personnel specialists, managers ate performance and to prepare de- is gearing up for the second round and supervisors. The bulk of the velopment plans for employees. of training for the new training will be conducted in April Stage One of PMP training, which GeorgiaGain Performance Man- and May to try to avoid any sched- was held last year, focused on the agement Process (PMP), State uling conflict with the Olympics. planning component of the new Merit System Training Division This second stage will concen- performance management process Director Diane Schlachter reports. trate on training managers to evalu- and on communication skills. Two pilot training sessions were to be held in January. In February, Paralympic Commemorative Tags Now On Sale 31 master trainers from 10 depart- Tags commemorating the upcom- tion of the Paralympic Athlete ments will be trained. They in turn ing 1996 Atlanta Paralympic Village, where 3,500 elite athletes will conduct 20 training sessions in Games will be on sale through May with physicial disabilities from 120 March for 400 instructors. at county tag offices. countries will be housed. ,Statewide training will get under The tags cost $15, with $10 go- The Paralympics, scheduled way in April, with two-day sessions ing to the Paralympics for opera- Aug. 15-25, will feaqu-e 19 sports. Page 3 'Platform For Action' Produced At Conference On Women (Editor's Note: Vickie Traylor is While the official delegations the Executive Director of the attended the Conference in Beijing, Georgia Commission on Women as the vast majority of non-govern- a contract employee. Her mental participants gathered assessment ofthefollOWing should in Huairou, an hour away. The not be construed to reflect the two events, so closely related and opinions of all the Commission intended to complement one members. The Commission was another, had been separated by the created by the Georgia General Chinese government. Assembly in 1992. Its 15 members The real reasons for the separa- are _appointed by Governor Zell tion are a matter of conjecture, but Miller, Lt. Gov. PierreHoward and it is generally accepted that the Chi- House Speaker Tom Murphy.) nese wanted to separate interna- By Vickie Traylor The United Nations Fourth World Conference on Women and the Non~Governmental Forum on Women held in China last September were two simultaneous conferences that will go down in history. Together, they represent the most important global event that has ever taken place for women. The controversy leading up to the tional officials and the citizens of Beijing from the grass-roots clamor that would and did pervade the Forum. This clamor included the democratic process of demonstrations, free speech, right to assembly, marches, protests. Conditions in the Forum location were deplorable. A portion of the town was cordoned offby security for activities of the Forum and events involved the politics ofradi- rseugpipslteemreednpteadrtiacsipchanotosl,ounnlyf.iniTsehnetds Photo by Vickie Traylor shows unfinished buildings and tents provided for the Non-Governmental Forum in Huairou. cal left and right, the intrigue of in- buildings, and an inadequate ternatiOnal diplomacy, the obstructio'n ~fspeech and access: lmd lastminute travel rearrangements that caused enonnous inconvenience. auditorium for an estimated 3,000 workshops, plenary sessions and exhibits. Intense humidity was followed by Violence against women Women and armed conflict Women and the economy Yet, official delegations from 189 rain and mud. Most toilets were Women in power and countries and an estimated 45,000 portable "outhouses" with only decision-making .participants prevailed. , 'The Piatform for Action, the holes, no toilet fixtures. Access for thenandicapped document adopted at the Conference, is a mainstream blueprint for was nonexistent. Harassment by security prevented even present- Institutional'mechanisms for thea'dvancementofwomen .. Human rights of women promoting the economic, political, ers from attending their own Women and the media educational, and social advance- workshops, and changes in venue Women and the environment ment of women. The information shared at the Forum by international women. from all walks oflife solidified the premise that women from all over the world have the same concerns and face similar obstacles in creating opportunities for themselves. Over 50 women from Georgia are known to have attended, including Georgia Commission on Women member Sandra Thurman, who represented the Task Force for Child Survival, the national president of the YWCA, Ann Stallard, and fonner White House staff member Veronica Biggins, who was a member of the U.S. delegation. I attended the Forum with a delegation from the Kentucky Commission on Women and Leadership America. We were joined by hundreds of women from nonprofit, grassroots, or professional organizations devoted to advancing the rights of, and opportunities- for, women and girls, their daughters and granddaughters. Many of went unannounced. These hardships, however, served a purpose. It ralliedthe enonnous spirit of the world's women leaders to overcome the day-to-day hardships they frequently face within their own countries. The experience of being with so many dedicated people, the varied colors of skin and dress, the sounds of dozens oflanguages and dialects, the exchange of infonnation, strategies, and common purpose were powerful for everyone who attended. The official governmental representatives faced far less hardships at the Conference in Beijing. There, the final wording ofthe Platfonn for Action was adopted. The Platfonn is the result of over 20 years of work and influenced by a number of international and regional conferences leading up to China. It outlines 12 areas ofcritical concern, including the following: The girl child The document gives a global assessment of the condition of women, incorporating the fact that each country has its own special conditions and priorities. But its substance is derived from the common strategies and specific actions that can be adopted and implemented on all levels, from international to local, by governments, businesses and service organizations. The Georgia Commission on Women currently has the document under review for adoption by resolution. Other organizations are examining it for new ideas or fresh approaches. Still others are examining it as a basis for collaboration on similar efforts. The document reiterates the importance of women as mothers and as caretakers in partnership with men. But it also recognizes the enonnous contributions women make, paid and unpaid, outside the home to the quality of life for their communities and Vickie Traylor (L) with (L-R) Faye Wong, CDC, Barbara Rose, Georgia Tech, and Dr. Margaret Scarlett, CDC educational, and economic pro- not something women have to earn cesses should be removed. Perhaps or be given. To obtain a copy of the most simply, it is a recognition of document, call the U.N. Bookshop women's rights as human rights, at 800/533-3210. Fiscal Management Council Offers Scholarships Application deadline is March 31 Priority is given to current state for two $500 scholarships offered employees and to those students by the Fiscal Management Council, expressing an interest in govern- the professional organization for ment service. Other criteria include state fiscal personnel. gradepoint averages, as well as College seniors, rising college extracurricular involvement. us paid our own way. Official Women and poverty their nations'. economies. seniors and graduate students For application forms or resources for women, even to Education and training of It is based on the premise that any pursing a major in accounting, information, contact Carla S. attend such an important event, are women barriers for the full participation of finance or public administration are Burgess, Office of Treasury & always scarce. Women and health women in political, legal, civic, eligible to apply. Fiscal Services, 404/657-2094. _ _ k ". " . ~ ~ ''',,' ,_ _ , . _ _ . -, ,~ _ ' _ _ ~, ," ." ~ Page 4 GeorgiaGain 5] Responses to Employee Questions GeorgiaGain Employee Q.& A P.O. Box 347-011 Atlanta, GA 30334 (Editor's Note: Questions are answered in the chronological order they are received. Due to the volume ofletters, some questions have been held for the next issue. See the form at right to submit questions for response in future issues.) Q: How will GeorgiaGain address the employees in the design offices at Georgia DOT whose job function/description is totally based on interdependency? Will those employees be left out ofthe evaluation process until a procedure [for evaluation of employee teams] can be set up? evaluated on an individual basis- the PMP will be revised toimprove that is, how well they function as a techniques and guidelines for team member and what their con- evaluating and rewarding perfor- tributions have been to the team and mance on a team basis. the team's results.. Presumably, the DOT employees Q: Under GeorgiaGain, it ap- referenced in this question are cur- pears possible that a subordinate rently being evaluated on the basis could make more than his/her su- oftheir individual performance and pervisor. I see no problem with are not "left out of the evaluation this ~ince the supervisory chain process". This will continue to be is not necessarily based on per- the case under the new Performance formance, but organizational ef- Management Process (PMP). ficiency. Will this be possible un- The PMP developed as part of der GeorgiaGain and allow us to GeorgiaGain gives more emphasis deal with the class roadblocks than ever before to teamwork now in place? through the addition-preprinted on the Performance Management A: Theoretically, it is possible Attn.: State Personnel News GeorgiaGain Employee Q & A Have questions' about the GeorgiaGain project to implement a new performance-based compensation system? You'll get an answer by sending your question to the address above. Responses will be printed in future issues of the State Personnel News. (No names published.) Name:~ ~------------------ Agency: Daytime Phone: _ Question: ~---- Form---ofa Teamwork responsibil- for a subordinate to be on a higher A: Even though employees may ity. If State agencies continue to pay grade than his or her work as an integral part of a team, move toward structuring more and supervisor-for example, in a case work as a team, why are the employees to learn and adjust to generally their performance can be more work into self-directed teams, where the subordinate's job employees not able to evaluate the other major changes that involves performing a highly tech- their supervisors/managers? I are being made to the State's nical skill for which the job market feel asthough honest evaluations personnel proces~es. COUNCIL FOR STATE pays well, and the supervisor's will make for a better workforce. management of the individual is Q: Can secretaries anticipate PERSONNEL ADI\IIINISTRATION purely administrative and requires A: The concept of employees a change of class/title if current Announces Special Savings To III .Sq~imxqFEl~a~g~s!~A 0 A Time Wamer Entertainment Company TICKETS AVAILABLE YOUR PRICE Earl}' Bird Ticket $16.50 i~gya~r~aI::rk~t;rc~e2":.v~i~~I~,f~~g~rchaseMarch 2 - April 24 nofunctioning or particular knowledge in the technical area. However, this is not typically the case in most agencies, as State supervisors tend to be "working"supervisors, who perform much ofthe same work as their subordinatesperhaps even on a higher skill level-and, in addition, perform supervisory duties. evaluating their supervisors- job duties- reflect a higher level which is frequently referred to as of responsibility and/or past "upward feedback"-was consid- training/experience and educaered at some length by the Task tion? I have been trying to Force and other teams working on break the secretary barrier for the design of GeorgiaGain. While eight years. the groups concluded that the concept is sound and desirable, they felt A: Departments are still in the that there would be a number of process of re-describing and reproblems to be worked out, such as, o evaluating their jobs, both those Adult One-Day Tickets Child's Ticket(ages 3-9) & Sr. Citizens(ages 55 +) Two Day Best Buy Good for any two non-consecutive, days. $22.50 $16.50 $32.50 A definite advantage of the new for example, the fact that many that are agency-specific and those job evaluation system under State managers supervise fewer that they share in common with GeorgiaGain is that the compen- than five employees, making it dif- other state agencies-such as Season Pass Family Passes Pass good for up to three (3) members of the same family! $62.00 $142.00 sable factors that have been defined ficult to protect employees' identi- secretarial and clerical jobs. place much weight on technical ties and allow them to' give frank A multi-agency work team is MAINGATE PRICE IN 1996 IS $32.00 + TAX CHILDREN UNDER 3 FREE DISCOUNTS NOT AVAILABLE AT SIX FLAGS PARK .' STATE SIX FLAGS PROGRAM Please send me: expertise and problem-solving, thus creating two "tracks"-managerial and technical-for State employees to advance in their careers. evaluations. The consensus was that an up- ward feedback system, which includes evaluation by subordinates, reviewing the job data that has been collected on secretarial and clerical positions and will make recommendations about how these State Personnel Council P.O. Box 347206 Atlanta, Georgia 30334-7206 _ _ tickets @ $16.50 each _ _ tickets @ $22.50 each _ _ tickets @ $16.50 each , peers, and custemers, should be jobs should be compensated and Q: Since the workplace pro- designed arid phased into the new titled. The team should be making Or/Drop Boxes at the following location: Room 466 Education Credit Union _ _ tickets @ $32.50 each _ _ tickets @ $62.00 each _ _ tickets @ $142.00 each vides opportunities for employ- PMP at a later stage. That will pro- its recommendations' in the next ees and supervisors/managers to vide time for both managers and few months. Total enclosed No location to purchase tickets on a walk-in basis. All tickets must be mailed. 5 A Day 5K Run & Family Walk Promotes Healthy Choices NAME _ The International Fresh-Cut Pro- produce samples, a health fair, gia Department of Agriculture, HOME ADDRESS ~- duce Association (IFPA) and the Pro- prizes and commemorative t-shirts. Georgia Dietetic Association, CITY ~STATE _ _' _ ZIP ~ AGENCY OFC. PHONE ( ) _ HOME PHONE ( GIST ( )., _ All mail orders must include a self-addressed, stamped envelope and payment to State Personnel Council. Offer valid through August 30, 1996. Your tickets will be mailed to you within 7 days of receipt of your order. duce for Better Health Foundation (PBH) will host the first annual "Kroger 5 A Day 5K Run& Family Walk" on Saturday, March 23, at the Chattahoochee River Recreation Area in Cobb ,County. Participants willwarm up at 7 a.m., followed by The event has received an endorsement from the NFL Alumni Players AssoCiation in Georgia, and both current and former pro players will be involved on-site in the Fun Run's promotional activities. The Health Fair is sponsored by Georgia Department ofEducation, American Cancer Society, Cobb County Cooperative Ext~nsion Service, Kroger-Atlanta, All-Pro Produce Company and Wellness, Inc. Proceeds from the event will go toward funding the national 5 A lickets Cannot Be Returned For Refund. the race start at 7:30 a.m. members of the Georgia Coalition Day effort and local 5 A Day ac- NO DISCOUNTS WILL BE AVAILABLE AT SIX FLAGS PARK. Children under the age of three. admitted free. Fun-runners and walkers can en- for Better Health: Georgia Depart- tivities for the Georgia Coalition for joy fresh-cut products and other ment of Human Resources, Geor- Better Health. DeferredCompensation'Plan Makes It Easier For Employees,To Build Nest Eggs (Editor's Note: Gary Marshall is marketing specialist for the Deferred Compensation Plan administered by the State Merit System.) By Gary Marshall Thanks to Section 457 of the Internal Revenue Code, state employees have a unique opportunity to build a nest egg with tax-deferred earnings. And during the time the . employee's earnings are deferred, they continue to earn additional money for the employee on a taxsheltered basis. The State of Georgia Employees' Deferred Compensation Plan, which became effective July 1, 1980, falls under Section 457. Section 457 originally was created to allow state and municipal government employees a method of salary deferral similar to plans enjoyed by private sector employees. But there are some differences. The Deferred Compensation Plan technically is defined as an eligible plan under Section 457 of the IRS guidelines, as opposed to a qualified pension or profit-sharing plan;siich as a 40l(k), 403(b) or IRA. Despite its technical designation, the Plan can, and does, function for ,employees as a taxdeferred supplemental retirement or savings plan. Employees do not have to pay state or federal income taxes on their deferred compensation or the earnings on that deferred compensation as long as the funds remain in the employee's Deferred Compensation Plan account. In other words, a 457 plan is simply a method for an employee to defer compensation and build taxsheltered earnings until he or she terminates service~ The employee's right to receive Deferred Compensation Plan distributions begins immediately when the employee terminates service, whether for retirement, voluntary or involuntary separation, -or disability. Allowing immediate access to the 457 Plan upon termination differs from access available to contributions in a 40l(k) or other qualified plan, which must remain "sheltered" until a participant is age 59 1/2. If participants take money outofthe qualified planptior to this age; they must pay a 10 percent penalty on all money withdrawn, in addition to the normal state and federal income tax. on the proceeds. In the state's Deferred Compensation Plan, ifemployees terminate service, they can take their money out at any age without the 10 percent penalty. Since Deferred Compensation Plan disbursements are considered ordinary income by the IRS, there is no penalty for "early" distributions. Savvy state employees have used this "no 10 percent penalty" rule to their advantage in many different circumstances. For example, some have built up a nest egg in preparation for leaving the work force to start their ownbusiness, or to retire earlier than otherwise would be possible. The IRS limits the amount of compensation that an employee can defer through the Plan on the basis of two factors: 25 percentof total compensation, up'to a maximum of $7,500 per calendar year. How does that compare to other types of plans? Even though their dollar maximums are somewhat higher than the 457 Plan, the other plans also have a lower and much more restrictive percentage of compensation that can be deferred. For the vast majority of state employees, the $7,500 maximum allowable contribution to the Deferred Compensation Plan is set high enough that they actually are eligible to defer a greater amount of their compensation than they currently do. As long as an individual is actively employed by the State, the employee's deferrals remain under the control of the State of Georgia. The State is legally obligated to account for these assets and their corresponding investment or savings growth rates, and periodically must report account activity to the participating employees. The State reports to employees on a quarterly basis. So just how safe are employees' deferred assets? The State of Georgia has a contractual obligation to payout these assets to employees upon termination-just as it has the same obligation to pay employees wages earned. As a sovereign entity, the State of Georgia can't decide just to cancel its debts or obligations. Like all other state governments, it is bound by law to make good on all its debts and obligations. Therefore, the State is contractually liable to employees who participate in the state's Deferred Compensation Plan for the account value of the selected deferment option(s). In addition, the State Personnel Board takes its fiduciary responsibility seriously. The Board has put policies in place to ensure that the State's investment methodologies are based on sound credit quality and reasonably secure investments, particularly for the fixed income option. The Board also monitors the investment process on an ongoing basis. Therefore, it is highly unlikelyimprobable even-'-that Georgia would ever experience the highly publicized negative investment outcomes that rocked Orange County, California. Orange County's investment problems were attributed to the use of leveraged and high-risk components for their fixed income option, which the State of Georgia does not use. So, while there are differences between the state's Deferred Compensation Plan and those ofthe prIvate sector, the Plan has served the state's employees safely and effectively for over 15 years. Many former state employees who participated now enjoy a more comfortable standard of living than would otherwise be possible, thanks to income from their deferred compensation. State Art Collection To Rotate In Agencies The Georgia Council for the Arts munity," Visual Arts Manager Each agency will select the works it Web Home Page Promotes Georgia (GCA) has established a new rotation 'system for the State Art Collection to give the public and state employees a better opportunity to view the artwork on display in state agencies. The collection includes over 600 works by Georgia artists. "The goal is for the collection to be available to the public, so that everyone can enjoy the rich resources of Georgia's artistic coin- Richard Waterhouse said. wants to harig in its public areas and Artwork for the collection was will have those works for one year. acquired through a juried purchase The 32 agencies in the rotation this program sponsored by the GCA. year selepted artwork in an order w:tJ.en the program was discontin-. determined by random drawing. ued in 1991 due to budget con- Agencies which did not participate straints, the works were placed in in the initial drawing still have the various state agencies, where they opportunity to select artwork from have remained. the remainder of the collection for Under the new system, the artwork exhibition this year, or to sign up to will rotate through various state participate in the next rotation. Con- agencies in the metro Atlanta area. tact Waterhouse at 404/651-7926. Governor Zell Miller has launched a World Wide Web home page available on the Internet. "I want the whole world to know about the great state of Georgia, and that's why I launched this World Wide Web page," Gov. Miller said. "I am very proud to put Georgia out there in cyberspace where everyone can discover that we are on the cutting edge of modem technology." Gov. Miller's home page opens with a message welcoming visitors and promoting the State of Georgia. He describes Georgia's HOPE (Helping Outstanding Pupils Educationally) scholarship and pre-kindergarten programs, and outlines the state's strong economic standing. "The page is also designed to inform Georgians about the operations Roach Named VSU Distinguished Alumna of state government and the Governor's Office," Miller said. Categories available on the pageinclude: education, public safety, government management, human resources, environment, informa- Dotty W. Roach, executive leadership training to top-level tion about Goyernor Miller and his senior staff, press releases and director of the State Health female executives in state govern- speeches, and information on the Governor's Intern Program. Planning Agency, has been ments. She previously served as The page address is http://www.state.ga.us./GOV/. recognized by the Valdosta State president, vice president and University Alumni Association as treasurer of Women Healthcare its 1995 Distinguished Alumna. Executives, a statewide profesGov. Zell Miller commended sional organization affiliated with Karen Hampton Selected IPMA Member ofYear Roach as "an able administrator, a the' American College of Karen Hampton has been named the program committee for the past prudent steward of resources, and Healthcare Executives. an impartial facilitator ofstatewide She serves on the CARE health services." The State Health Advisory Board of the Georgia Planning Agency administers the Hospital Association, the Editorial Certificate-of-Need Program. Board of Georgia Health Law Member of the Year for the three years and as chair for 1995. Metropolitan Atlanta Chapter of Employed by the State Merit IPMA (International Personnel System since October, 1987, Management Association). Hampton is a personnel analyst II She was recognized at the in the Administrative and Systems Roach is the 1996 vice chair of Update and the Advisory Board of Women Executives in State Gov- Atlanta Health Pages. She gradu- ernment, a nationwide organization ated cum laude from VSU with a which provides management and degree in accounting, Dotty Roach . organization's December meeting as "the driving force" behind the quality programs presented by the Chapter. Hampton has served on Division Payroll Certification Unit. She will complete a Master of Public Administration degree from the University of Georgia in June.. Page 6 Classic Capitol Design Stands The Test OfTime: (Editor's Note: Asproject histo- era provide accurate measurements. events that have occurred in it will take to restore the public to take the next step in restoring rian for the Commission on the A field team from the local archi- the building. spaces while still answering the their chambers: developing a mas- Preservation of the State Capitol, tectural firm of Lord Aeck & One of the most intriguing ques- needs of a modern, working ter preservation plan. A master Anne Farissee from Georgia State Sargent is measuring the entire tions about the Capitol's original state house. plan would determine exactly how University's Department ofHistory building by hand, sketching impor- appearance is what type of decora- Just a few months ago, a large to restore each chamber to its his- is developing a historical narrative tant elements and taking volumi- tive painting may have been used. chunk of plaster on a third-floor toric grandeur while providing the about the State Capitol. She nous field notes. Today the study ofhistoric finishes ceiling crashed to the floor, dra- modern amenities needed for a excerpted the following informa- All of these images are "digi- has become a specialized field of matically displaying the urgent working seat of government. tion from her ongoing research.) tized," or entered into a computer restoration work. Frank Welsh, an need for extensive plaster repair in The plan would recommend how to produce computerized drawings. architectural coatings consultant, the Capitol. A subsequent plaster to restore the chambers' 1889 ap- When it opened in 1889, the State These drawings not only are more works at a microscopic level to study by the Georgia Building pearance, which included stenciled Capitol contained the entire state accurate, but they also contain study paint samples taken in sev- Authority revealed a serious walls, figured carpet, clear win- government ofGeorgia-and it was many levels of details that can be eralpublic spaces inside the Capi- public safety problem, with many dows with shutters, a coved and only halffull. Although those days turned "off" and "on." You can see toL The resulting analysis will re- panels as much as 70% damaged. decorated ceiling, brass lighting are long gone, the Capitol still an entire facade, zoom in on a door- veal how the original colors would The affected areas have been fixtures and other handsome ef- functions as the nerve center way, or even focus on a single door- look today, how they appeared in removed, but funds are needed to fects. It would also determine how of state government. It is the knob. Not only are these images 1889, and where and what patterns replace the plaster. to provide suitable acoustics, light- actual-as well as the symbolic- versatile and incredibly. accurate, were used. In addition, the analy- In recommending this repair be ing, HV/AC, media facilities, and center ofpolitics and public policy but they also can be stored indefi- sis will determine the condition of done as soon as possible, the other provisions needed in order for for Georgia. nitely without deterioration. the finishes today and how best to Commission advises a comprehen- the room to function properly. Recognizing the importance of Giant Jigsaw Puzzle restore them. sive approach that will result in the The Georgia Capitol was built to such a significant structure, the Compiling the history of a Originally, the interior of the restoration of the major public secure the position ofthe state capi- Georgia General Assembly created notable public building such as a Capitol was characterized by a spaces of the Capitol in the most tal, and the solidity of its appear- the Commission for the Preserva- state capitol is much like working dramatic contrast between the cost-effective way. Since scaffold- ance underscores the impression of tion of the State Capitol in April a giant jigsaw puzzle whose pieces lavish legislative chambers and the ing will be erected to work on the permanence. The Capitol has with- 1993. Members include the ap- range in size, relevance and simpler rotunda and atriums. In the plaster and repaint, the Commission stood the ravages of time well, pointees of the Governor, Lieuten- reliability. From historic docu- chambers, lush decorative recommends returning the rotunda, thanks in part to its solid construc- ant Governor, President ofthe Sen- ments to paint chips: many types elements, once restored, will atria and corridors to their historic tion and to vigilant maintenance in ate, Speaker ofthe House, and vari- of components come together. to create a dazzling effect. In the two-color scheme. its later years. Its halls, res'onate ous ex-officio participants. help reconstruct just how the Capi- rotunda and atriums, soaring spaces While the . plaster is being with history;a.potent serise.oplace Restoring the Capitol is a large tollooked in 1889 and how it has and graceful architectural elements removed,' a historic lighting plan that survives not only becaus,e and complex project, one that will been changed. combine to create a simple, but no could be designed and installed at the building exists, but also take many years and dollars. The Actual historic records, such as less majestic, beauty. minimal cost. Electrical wiring. because it still functions as a first step, which is virtually com- the minutes ofthe Capitol Commis- A more intensive study of the and unobtrusive supplemental working capitol plete, is to document the building's sioners, .are the most trustwor.thy, decorative finishes in the Senate illumination would be installed to How To Help colorful past and current condition. but even rumors can provide the will uncover the various patterns prepare the area for historic Documenting and preserving the Computerized Drawings leads needed to track down the ac- used on the walls and ceilings of fixtures, which would be repro- Capitol is essential to keep this A federal and local architectural tual facts. The historical narrative the chamber. An architectural duced with private funds. grand old building functioning for team is producing a full set ofcom- being produced focuses on the rendering ofthe space will provide Marble would be cleaned and re- another 100 years. You can help. puterized drawings that record the Duilding, especially its construction a clearer vision of how the room paired, and woodwork would Any information about the entire building, inside and out. The and subsequent alterations. originally appeared, including be refinished to its original appear- Capitol's history is always wel- process combines the latest com- But in order for Georgians to original window treatments, light- ance. The project is costly, an esti- come. Old photographs, postcards puter technology with old-fash- better appreciate the significance ing, and ceiling configuration. mated $6.2 million, but could be or other materials are especially ioned fieldwork. High-quality oftheir state house, the history also Now that the documentation is phased in as the repair work is helpful. Please contact the State photographs taken by employees of describes the development of complete, it can provide a founda- being done throughout the Capitol. Museum office (651-6996) if you the Historic American Building. the surrounding area and some tion for all of the work to follow. The Commission also is working have any information, questions or Survey (HABS) with a special cam- of the important historical The next task is to determine what to encourage the House and Senate comments about this project. A T LAN T A Order for '96 arid receive a FREE copy Georgia Regional Hospital At Savannah HAPPENINGS of a National Dining Discount Directory! Celebrates '25 Years of Excellence' Dine out, travel, shop, go to the movies or local theatre, play sports, and a whole lot more~all at up to 50% off1 How? With the Happenings book. It's packed with twofor-one and 50% off discounts at hundreds of local restaurants and merchants. Have fun and save money too. Order your Happenings book today and receive a FREE national dining discount directory valid for 25% offyour total food and beverage bill at over 1,000 restaurants (20 in Atlanta). Available to view and purchase in most personnel offices. Also available by mail using the order form below. Send to: Atlanta Happenings, 5885 GlenridgeDrive, Suite 110, Atlanta, GA 30328. Telephone: 4041 Georgia Regional Hospital at Savannah celebrated "25 Years of Excellence" in December to mark the 25th anniversary of the date on which the first patient was admitted to the hospital. The hospital was built at a cost of$5.3 million on an 108-acre site. These longtime employees were presented with plaques commemorating their 25 years at the hospital. They include: Ruth B.. Akins, Marie Bracken, Jackie B. Cain, Dorothy J. Childs, Gary Clark, Judy Clark, Robert D. Gibson, Alice Hamilton, Rubye Jenkins, 303-8608 for VISA or MasterCard orders. Please mention you are a state employee Carl E. Roland, Jr., director ofthe Alethea W Jones, Mary D. Smith when placing a credit card order. State Division of Mental Health! and Kathryn M. Williams. Send Name Address City copies of Atlanta Happenings @ $26 each plus $1 for shipping/handling ---- _ State__ Zip _ Provided as a benefit to State Employees and their families Mental Retardation/Substance Abuse, reviewed highlights of the hospital's history since the opening on Dec. 8, 1970. GRH-S Deputy Superintendent Joe Hodge and Judy Clark, R.N:, one of the origi- Three volunteer groups also were cited for thier commitment to the hospital. The Pilot Club and the Soroptimist Club have worked with the hospital for over 24 years. The Pet-A-Pet program, headed by from the State Personnel Council nal employees still at the hospital, Catharine Kelly, has been a weekly also participated on theprogral11. .event for 23 years ... ,. Halls 'Resonate With History, A Potent Sense OfPlace' The restoration effort in many were from Georgia. Six of the 10 ingarchitects were called before the rials and quality workmanship, Capitol, Georgia's winning design ways mirrors the original construc- firms had representatives present Commission to answer questions. would require $1,325,000. Thein- illustrated the state's resurging pa- tion process, which was not when the bids were opened. Unable to decide, they passed a terior, in his estimation, would need triotism, as. well as its growing undertaken lightly, especially since They were invited to come before resolution to hire George Post, a $1,900,000 to be comparable to prominence. The state house would expense was a major factor to the Commissioners and explain well-known New York architect, as other states. tell the world that Georgia was be considered. their plan. a consultant for $1,000. In regard to the designs them- important, a regional and even Selecting the Design The Capitol Commissioners Post accepted and made plans selves, Post considered only three national leader. At their second meeting on Oct. began the selection process to come to Atlanta. By this time, "in conformity with your instruc- According to The American Ar- 4, 1883, the Capitol Commission- "in fine spirits," but as they got all of the out-of-town architects tions." Apparently the Commis- chitect and Building News, it suc- ers turned to their first major task, further along, their attitudes began had returned to their respective ~ sioners had been able to narrow the ceeded, for the building "speaks to select a design for the capitol, to deteriorate. cities, except for Willoughby field a bit. Two were Classical in eloquently of a State rising, by her and with it, an architect. The Capi- Only One Million Dollars Edbrooke, who stayed in town style and the other was from a repu- own efforts, from the impoverished tol Act specified that the "commis- It was a very general impression until the announcement was made. table local firm that had attracted conditions in which a most devas- sioners shall, as soon as possible, when the capitol bill passed that the He may have been more optimistic the attention of the press. The one tating war had left her, to a level .. proceed to select a plan for a suit- million dollars was "simply a start because he was the only archi- from E. E. Myers was the most with her more fortunate sisters." able capitol building, said plan to and that the amount would be in- tect to be called before the elaborate, and probably rejected As far as architectural style was be secured, either by competitive creased after the work was begun." Commissioners twice. because of cost. Local firm concerned, the Commissioners contest or by the employment of a The commissioners decided, how- George Post arrived in Atlanta on Humphries and Norrman was wanted to be as "classical" as competent architect for that pur- ever, that they would "follow the law Feb. 2,1884, examined the entries, dismissed quickly; cost is possible: "The classic style of ar- pose." They held a contest. absolutely and build a capitol to cost and reported to the Board of Capi- mentioned again. chitecture in which the building is Notices were sent to newspapers only a million dollars." tol Commissioners on Feb. 11. Winning Design designed, is believed to be best and offered $3,500 for the winning As one commissioner said, "I do With the help of Post, they had The winning design was "more suited, by reason of its imposing entry. The deadline was Dec. 19. not think that any ofthese plans will reached a decision quickly and academic in its plan than the other effect, to a building of a character An extension was granted on be entirely satisfactory to the com- selected Edbrooke & Burnham designs. It is very dignified, and so monumental as a State Capitol- Nov. 13 and gave the architects mission. Indeed I feel very much of Chicago. more simple and elegant in detail the house of a great common- until noon on Jan. 16, 1884. In the hesitation about acting at all in the However, the Commissioners did than that ofMyers: less picturesq].le wealth--;-,and is more certain to meantime, the Capitol Commis- matter. While a million dollars may not take all of Post's advice, espe- but more monumental than that of meet the demands of a constantly sioners began to get nervous about build such a house as the state is cially when the report did not tell Humphries and Norrman." progressive public criticism than making the selection.. It was an- obliged to have"it would still not them what they wanted to hear. The victorious entry measured more modem styles." ticipaled that there wouldbe many come up to the expectationsof the P6stwas particularlytroubled with 330' x 160', with a dome 240' high. The Commissioners seemed to plans to consider-The Atlanta people, nor equal the dignity ofthe the size of the budget and strongly It was slightly more elaborate than think ofClassicism as a traditional, Constitution estimated 40 or 50. state. I am not sure that it would recommended a larger appropria- the final built version, for it in- comfortable, even old-fashioned At its December meeting, the not be a good idea to wait and go tion. Eight-hundred thousand dol- cluded a sculptural group above the style immune to changing tastes. Commissioners decided to investi- before the legislature and state that lars had been allocated for actual central pediment, carvings in the Certainly, there were other, earlier gate the possibility ofhiring "some the million dollar capitol will not construction costs, which Post felt two flanking west pediments, and capitols that used the same basic competent, disinterested architect be what they expect, and ask them would only cover a plain interior circular lucarne windows with elements as Georgia's design: a to aid in the selection of a plan." if they want to raise the appropria- and an exterior bereft ofany sculp- hood molds in the dome. central dome and rotunda, a rusti- With the new year came the com- tion or let us move ahead on a: ture or ornamentation. Why did this design win? cated first story and basement, a petition entries. Arriving at their million dollar basis." He even suggested delaying the Obviously Edbrooke & Burnham two-story, columned portico, and a Jan. 16 meeting, the Commission- The Commissioners met three construction of the dome so that provided a plan that best fit the Greek cross plan. ers entered a room full ofdrawings more days in January, spending more could be spent on materials needs and tastes of the Board of But the Commissioners were and anxious architects. Ten designs most of the time discussing the and workmanship. To build the Capitol Commissioners. First, it right in step with the direction that had been submitted, ofwhich three designs. Two of the more promis- Capitol right, using durable mate- had to be affordable, for the Com- architecture, especially institutional missioners took their budget very architecture, was taking at the time. seriously. But although they were The High Victorian challenge to State Government Employ.e limited by a conservative budget, Greek Revival, most noticeably porit was imperative that the building trayed in the New York Capitol and make the right statement. And the Richard M. Upjohn's design for IIKnightsll At The Omni! image they had in mind was clear: Connecticut, was losing out to a the Georgia Capitol would be as im- more restrained Classicism. In hir- The Atlanta Knights are pleased to offer two great pressive as $1 million could buy. ing George Post as their expert, the "The building will be grand and Commissioners chose a man who nights of hockey action.to all State Government employ- imposing in appearance. Its pro- "inclined to the architecture of the ees, family and friends. Be a part of the action by selecting one or both games - there is no limit to the portions are fine and its architec- remiissance in ,his taste," and more tural design in every way stately importantly, agreed with their tastes. and dignified....From the center an The Georgia State Capitol may number of tickets that can be ordered! immense dome almost exactly like not be the most fully developed Sat. Feb 24 vs Ind. 7:30pm Call (404) 525-PUCK for more information. the dome of the capitol at Wash- statement of the emerging Classiington rises to a height of240 feet. cism movement, but it is a remark- __Sat. Mar. 30 vs Cle. 7:30 pm Orders must be received 10 days prior to selected game. In fact, the building reminds one able building in the context ofwhat Name _ of the capitol at Washington city was being built in Atlanta in _Ticl~ets @$11each=$--Address _Tdets@$7each=$_------------------ and its general makeup easily the 1880s. Picturesque, irregular shows the purposes for which it designs still predominated in Geor- Handling=$1.00 Cit-t' State__Z i p - - - - - - was designed." gia, even for public buildings. In Total=$ __ Phone:...... -:-- "--_ Nationalism had been spreading selecting Burnham & Edbrooke's Send To: Atlanta Knights Ticket Office 100 Techwood Drive Atlanta, GA 30303 or Fax to (404) 4205038 __Check_ MasterCard _Visa_AMEX Cord No. Exp. Date _ _ " Signature -------.,.... all over the country since the end of the Civil War, and domed capitols had been fashionable since the construction of the National restrained design, the Board of Capitol Commissioners must have believed that they were choosing to do something very different and Capitol. In its resemblance to the very new for Georgia I! Page 8 WW II MelTIorial Dedicated On 54th Anniversary OfPearl Harbor Two World War II Medal of Honor recipients, public officials, veterans, and other guests gathered on a cold damp day in front of the Floyd Veterans Memorial Building to dedicate the state's World War II memorial on Dec. 7, the 54th anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor which brought the United States into World War II. "During World War II, 6,781 Geor- gians made the ultimate sacrifice sparked by the events on that fateful. day, Dec. 7, 1941," GoY. Zell Miller said in a Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day proclamation. He called on all Georgians "to remember those men who were lost at Pearl Harbor, and all the men and women who worked . and fought to ensure the continued State employees (L-R) Delana Tidwell, Steve Davis and Sylvia Mann survival of our nation." study the World War!! memorial. During its last session, the Georgia General Assembly directed Georgia Commissioner ofVeterans Affairs Pete Wheeler and the Georgia Department of Veterans Services to oversee the design and construction ofa monument dedicated to the memory of Georgia's World War II veterans. The main address at the dedication ceremony was given by Georgia native Claude Kicklighter, Deputy Under Secretary of the Army for International Affairs. During the four-year commemoration of World War II, Kicklighter was executive director of the Department of Defense World War II Commemorative Committee.. He spoke of the tremendous contribution the World War II generation has made to this country both during and after the war. "That generation fought and won the war and literally saved the world, They returned after the war to build this great nation," Kicklighter said. House Speaker Tom Murphy, a World War II Navy veteran, said he hopes the monument will reawaken the American public to the contributions that all veterans have made to their country. Special guests were Desmond Doss of Rising Fawn and Retired Army Colonel Robert Nett of Co~ lumbus. Both were awarded the Medal of Honor, the nation's highest military decoration, for their heroic actions during World War II. The monument consists of three granite bases, with the names ofthe 6,781 Georgians who died outside the U. S. during the war inscribed on flanking plaques. Photo by Laura Heath (L-R) Medal of Honor winners Ret. Army Colo Robert Nett, Columbus, and Desmond Doss, Rising Fawn, with State. Rep. Kenneth Birdsong Parking Deck Opens On Schedule, To Delight OfEmployees On Decatur StreetWaiting List Decatur Street Parking Deck was under construction up until the last minute, ~. butthe- Georgia Building Authority opened it as scheduled on Jan. 8. The new year got off to a great and elevators are available-to period that extends for seven years. start for those employees anticipat- access the covered walkway into The next space available will be of- ing the opening of the new Pete Twin Towers. fered to the person at the top of the Hackney Parking Facility on "We couldn't match the levels of waiting list, who signed up for Decatur Street. the two walkways because the lo- parking at Butler Street on July 7, The Georgia Building Authority cation of the new walkway had to 1989, Public Relations Coordina- (GBA) opened the deck on be in compliance with minimum tor Julie Kerlin reported. schedule on Jan. 8, making over clearance requirements for both Individuals interested in being 1,800 new spaces available. freight trains and MARTA," GBA placed on a waiting list for any of "For the first time in five years, Contract Administrator Lamar the GBA parking facilities should we are able to accommodate every- Holland explained. visit the Parking Office, located at one signed up for the Decatur Street GBA also recently acquired 175 #1 MLK Jr. Drive and open Mon- waiting list, as well as state employ- additional spaces in the Georgia day-Friday from 7:30 a.m.-5 p.m. ees making new application for Plaza Parking Facility (underneath Decatur Street parking," GBA the Garden Room). Until 1995, GBA Plans To Create File Director Luther Lewis said. "Of Georgia Plaza Park and the under- Of Bilingual Employees course, we're not sure how long this ground parking facility had been availability will last. " jointly owned by GBA, Fulton The Georgia Building Authority Work on the deck continued County and the City of Atlanta. is compiling a' file on individuals down to the wire and workers still GBA received appropriations in with foreign language skills who are putting the finishing touches on 1995 to purchase the Atlanta and work on Capitol Hill to help the massive structure. Fulton interest in this property. respond to questions or otherwise A covered walkway on the fifth Even with the recent surge in assist in situations that may arise level connects the Hackney Park- available space, other GBA park- with international visitors during ing Facility to the adjacent Butler ing facilities still have waiting lists. the Olympics. Street deck, where employees must For example, the popular Butler Interested employees should go down two levels---=botq stairs Street facility has a. waiting p0J,ltactCipdy ,tJ:ll,n;j.e.A ltt65 1-5924.