County employees who are official PDA representatives shall be given reasonable time off with pay, including reasonable travel time, to:
A. Formally meet and confer or consult with management representatives on matters within the scope of representation;
B. To be present at hearings where matters within the scope of representation are being considered;
C. To testify or appear as the designated representative of the Association in settlement conferences, hearings, or other proceedings before the Public Employment Relations Board, in matters related to unfair practice charges; or
D. To testify or appear as the designated representative of the Association in matters before the Civil Service Commission or grievance arbitration.
The use of official time for these purposes shall be reasonable and shall not interfere with the performance of County services as determined by the County. Such representatives shall submit written requests for excused absences to the Human Resources Director at least two (2) working days prior to the scheduled meeting whenever possible. Except by agreement with the Human Resources Director, the number of employees excused for such purposes shall not exceed four (4) individuals at any one time. If any employee’s request is not approved, disapproval shall be subject to appeal to the County Manager whose decision shall be final.