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Finance and Administrative Service Division FAQs

The Administrative Services Division is dedicated to the demonstration of “community-based” support services. 

 

Our mission = Service. 

 

Service:  To provide the finest quality support services by Administrative Services Departments (Business Services,  Contract Services, Facilities, Fiscal Services, Information Services and Payroll).

 

Below is a list of “Frequently Asked Questions” that is developed to be of assistance to the staff and faculty of Palomar College.

 

Should a question arise that is not listed, please contact Jo Anne Giese at the division office on extension 2109. 

 

To quickly move to a specific department or subject please click the link(s) to the right:

 

  BUSINESS SERVICES

  CONTRACT SERVICES

  FACILITIES SERVICES AND MAINTENANCE

       Building

       Custodial

       Environmental Health and Safety

       Facilities Planning

       Facilities Office

       Grounds and Recycling

  FISCAL SERVICES

       Budget

       PeopleSoft

       Travel

  INFORMATION SERVICES

  PAYROLL SERVICES

       Classified

       Adjunct Faculty

       Student

       Short-Term

 

  BUSINESS SERVICES
 

How do I get information on the web about Business Services?

The web page for the Palomar Business Services Department is:  http://www.palomar.edu/businessservices/default.htm.

 

What is a Cal Card and how do I obtain one?

The Cal Card is one method for purchasing at the college.  It is a Visa, issued by the State of California, through the Business Services office.  To find out more information about the card program, and to access the forms necessary to obtain a card, please visit the Business Services web page at the address above.  There is a “Cal Card” link on the left side of the Business Services department home web page.

 

When do I submit a requisition?

All items not obtainable by using the Cal Card are to be ordered by means of the District’s Purchasing requisition.  This would include supplies, materials, equipment, services, repairs, and other miscellaneous commodities.

 

How do I complete and submit a Purchase Requisition?

To access the requisition and continuation form, go to the Palomar College homepage – click on Staff, under Administrative Services – Business Services.  Then click on Requisition Instructions, for instructions on using the form.  After reading the instructions, use the back key.  Then click on Requisition Form/Continuation Sheet and fill out according to the instructions given at the instructions page.

 

How do I order office supplies from Office Depot?

There are two ways to place orders with Office Depot.  If you do not have a Cal Card, you will have to fill out a requisition (instructions above).  If you do have a Cal Card, you need to email the Business Services Staff Assistant with your request.  You will need to include your extension, the last 4 digits of your Cal Card, and the expiration date of your card.  You will be set up at the Office Depot secure website with a logon, password, and an online training document.

 

Who do I call to ask questions about purchasing specific items?

The Business Services department maintains a commodity listing at our web page.  It lists all the main commodities, and the buyer that is responsible for those commodities.  The listing is updated on a regular basis.  To access the commodity listing, simply visit the Business Services department home web page.  Click on the link: “Please contact our staff.  They will be happy to answer your questions.”

 

How do I order computers?

The Information Services Department has posted a list of standardized desktop and notebook computers that the District may purchase.  Go to the Palomar College homepage – click on Computing at Palomar, then click on Dell Computer & Notebook Pricing for District Use.  Complete a requisition including the computer description and quote number as referenced on the list and submit your requisition to Business Services.  All requisitions for computer hardware, peripherals, and software will be sent to the Information Services Department for review and signature.  The requisition will then be returned to Business Services and an order will be placed.

 

What is the current state of California sales tax rate?

State of California sales tax rates vary by county; however Palomar College will always pay tax based on the rate in San Diego County.  Currently the sales tax rate is 7.75%.

 

Palomar College is not tax exempt – we will always pay tax on taxable items even if the vendor is out of state.  If an out of state vendor does not collect California state sales tax, we will still have to pay the state of California directly.

 

Is petty cash available?

Yes – for items $200 and under, on an emergency basis only.  Complete a requisition form, using the wording “Petty Cash” in the vendor section.  Send your requisition to the Business Services Staff Assistant.  She will contact you to come pick up the cash.  You will be required to sign a form, signifying that you received the money and when the receipts/unspent money will be returned.

 

How do I obtain certificates of insurance from outside agencies or companies?

The Business Services Department is responsible for preparing proper insurance solicitations for the District’s liability coverage.  All District-wide insurance policies are administered through the office of the Director of Business Services.

 

Contractors doing work on campus or education centers must be required to file the following proofs of insurance with the District prior to receiving authorization to proceed on a contract:

a.  Certificate of Insurance confirming $1,000,000 combined single limit general liability coverage and automobile liability coverage, both naming the Palomar Community College District as an additional insured, and copies of the endorsements to the policies naming the Palomar Community College District as an additional insured.

b.  Proof of workers’ compensation coverage.

Should any of the above-described policies be cancelled prior to their expiration dates, the issuing company shall mail 30 days written notice of cancellation to the District.  The contractor shall maintain current insurance documents, for all of the above coverage’s, on file at the District during the term of any contract with the District.

 

What dollar amount can I expect my request to be put out for competitive quote or bid?

Whenever practical, competitive quotations from vendors handling the same or similar products will be secured.  The Business Services Department may, at its discretion, choose to bid any item which in its judgment lends itself to competitive bidding.

 

Individual departments may, for their own information, wish to secure inquiry price quotations on items they intend to purchase.  It should be understood, however, that these price quotations may not be usable at the time of purchase due to time lapse, quantity changes, incomplete information, inability to meet District’s bond or insurance requirements, or inability to meet federal or state laws or District policies and regulations.

 

Requisitioners should be sure to allow sufficient time for the Business Services Department to obtain quotes or bids, evaluate vendor qualifications, place the order and receive goods/services. 

 

Quotations will be secured in accordance with the following guidelines:

Supplies, Equipment and Services (except under Government code section 53060 and construction services)

$5,001 – $14,999                    Depending on the competitive nature of the items, comparison-shopping needs will be determined by the Business Services Department.

 

$15,000 - $58,900                   The Business Services Department will attempt to solicit at least three (3)  written competitive quotations.

 

$58,900 – Up                          “Formal bidding including advertising and Board approval is required” (California Public Contract Code).

 

Public Works Projects (construction services)

$1,000 - $5,000                       Depending on the nature of the given work project, comparison-shopping needs will be determined by the Business Services Department, Contracts Department or Facilities Department, as applicable.

$5,001 - $14,999                     The Business Services Department, Contracts Department, or Facilities Department, as applicable, will attempt to solicit at least three (3) written competitive quotations.

$15,000 – Up                          “Formal bidding including advertising and Board Approval is required” (California Public Contract Code).

Note:  Any “works of improvement” (work involving labor), the total cost of which exceeds $15,000, must be accompanied by a labor and materials (payment) bond prior to the commencement of work, or the contractor may not be paid.

 

The requisitioning department is not to use multiple requisitions for like items to circumvent the bidding process.

Vendors are responsible for the accuracy of quoted prices submitted to the Business Services Department.  In the event of a discrepancy between a unit price and its extension, the unit price will govern.  Quotations may be amended or withdrawn by the bidder up to the time of opening of the bids.

 

It is the vendor’s responsibility to ensure that their quotations are received in the Business Services or Contracts Office no later than the designated hour and day of the bid opening time and date, as specified in the request for bid.

All bids/quotations become a part of the Business Services Department’s records and may be reviewed upon request by interested parties after the bid is awarded.  No bids or quotations may be removed from the Business Services or Contracts Department.

 

Who is authorized to sign contracts/agreements?

There are three people on campus that are authorized to sign contracts/agreements for the District.  Those people are the Vice President of Finance & Administrative Services, the Director of Business Services, and campus Counsel, Contracts & Special Projects.

 

When should I use a pay voucher?

Pay vouchers should be used for the following:

  • Employee reimbursements - under $1,000

  • Subscriptions (Cal-Card may be used)

  • Memberships (Cal-Card may be used)

  • Emergency items - under $1,000 unless granted an exception

  • Independent Contractor Honorarium

  • Student Payments

  • Payments to Campus Food Services

What is the time frame for vendor payment?

We are aiming for normal vendor payment within 30 days.

 

How do I get copies made?

To get copies made you can go to any one of Comet copy machines on campus.  There are machines located in the following rooms:  A-25, F-6, Instruction Office, GJ-1 and at the Escondido campus.  The machines in GJ-1 and F-6 are manned with employees to copy your work for you.  A-25, Instruction and Escondido are self-serve machines you use yourself. To get copies made in GJ-1 and F-6 a Comet Copy work order form must be submitted with the work to be copied. In A-25, Instruction office and Escondido you do not need to fill out a work order. All copy machines require an access code, if you do not know your code you must obtain it from your department ADA or Chair.

 

How do I obtain business cards?

To have business cards made you must complete a Print Services work order and submit it along with the card information to the Print Services department.

 

How do I use Fed Ex, UPS, etc?

Please go to: http://www.palomar.edu/mailroom/.htm.

 

How do I obtain a mailbox key?

Contact the Business Services Technician in the Mailroom at extension 2113 and ask for a key.  Keys may be available immediately.  It may take a week to obtain a key if it needs to be ordered.

 

Are stamps available to purchase?

Yes. Please see the information at http://www.palomar.edu/mailroom.htm.

 

Can employees ship personal items through the Mailroom?

Only first-class and priority mail that has postage already affixed can be sent through the Mailroom.  However, if the weight of the mail piece is 16 ounces or over, the package must be taken to the post office due to current postal regulations.

 

Can the warehouse store items for campus departments?

Only if space is available and arrangements are made with Warehouse Services prior to receiving shipment.

 

Who is responsible for moving/transferring furniture on campus?

The Custodial Department is responsible for all moves and transfers on campus.  Warehouse Services is responsible for moving and transferring furniture to all the off-site campuses.

 

Who do we contact for surplus pick-up?

You must first fill out a surplus request form, accessed through the Facilities Department web page.  The completed form (with all necessary signatures) should then be forwarded to the Facilities Planning division of the Facilities Department.  They will notify Warehouse Services when the surplus is ready for pick-up.  Note: The I.S. Department must deprogram computers before a surplus form is submitted.  Also, furniture, chairs, etc., with no property tag will be picked up by Warehouse Services as soon as possible.

 

 

  CONTRACT SERVICES
 

How do I get an items placed on the Governing Board Agenda?

Complete the Board Agenda Item and/or Contract Review & Approval Form, which can be found on Counsel, Contracts & Special Projects web site (copy the form on pink paper).  Attach all information that pertains to the agenda item.  Have form signed by Department Chairperson, Dean, and Vice President and forward to Counsel, Contracts & Special  Projects, Room A4A, on the first Friday of the month.    

 

How do I process an agreement with an outside agency or company?

Complete the Board Agenda Item and/or Contract Review & Approval Form, which can be found on Counsel, Contracts & Special Projects web site (copy the form on pink paper).  Attach a scope of services to the form.  Have form signed by Department Chairperson, Dean, and Vice President and forward to Counsel, Contracts & Special Projects, Room A4A.

 

  FACILITIES DEPARTMENT
BUILDING
 

How do I contact Facilities to report a maintenance emergency?

Examples:

  •  Leaking plumbing (pipes or fixtures)

  •  No heating or cooling

  •  Power Outages

  •  Reset breakers

  •  Unsafe electrical situation (power outages)

  •  Building security problem

  •  Leaking roof

  •  Spills and floods

  •  Elevator emergencies

During normal business hours, emergencies should be telephoned into the Facilities Office at extension 2629 or they can be emailed to the Facilities Office.  After regular business hours, emergencies should be telephoned into the Palomar College Campus Police by dialing extension 2289.

 

How do I make a routine maintenance request?

Examples:

  •  Heating and air conditioning—too hot or too cold

  •  Painting requests

  •  Interior/Exterior maintenance problems

  •  Key problems

  •  Unlocking restricted classrooms/offices

  •  Repair ceiling tiles

  •  Drinking fountains

  •  Broken Glass

  •  Pool repair

  •  Clock correction/repair

  •  Bat removal

Routine maintenance requests should be telephoned into the Facilities Office at extension 2629 or they can be emailed to the Facilities Office

 

How do I request services such as?

  •  Estimating projects

  •  Installing new electrical service

  •  Installing or removing walls, doors, etc.

  •  Installing shelving, blinds

  •  Replacing carpet

  •  Painting projects

  •  Installing whiteboards

  •  Building cabinets

  •  Servicing doors and hardware

  •  Performing remodel work

  •  Requesting the gas barbeque for special events (cost is $25.00)

Complete a Facilities Work Request Form by accessing the Facilities Form webpage: http://www.palomar.edu/facilities/ and select the http://www.palomar.edu/facilities/WorkReqstForm.pdf,  obtain the necessary signatures, providean account number and submit it to the Facilities Office.  Facilities Work Request Forms can be acquired by calling the Facilities Office at extension 2629.

 

How do I obtain information about construction and renovation projects?

As with all major construction, some inconveniences are unavoidable. Updates are posted on the following website: http://www.palomar.edu/constructionup/. This page is intended to inform you of the various projects and to help you avoid delays around the construction areas.

 

In the event of a utility failure, who do I contact?

Procedure:

  • During normal business hours, call into the Facilities Office at extension 2629.  Report the nature and location of the failure.

  • Facilities personnel will be sent to the scene to take immediate steps to safeguard life and property.  An accurate appraisal of conditions will be made, and equipment and/or personnel needed will be determined.

  • Facilities personnel will assess the effects of the failure and estimate the impact on facilities and personnel.

  • The Facilities Office will notify the Vice-Presidents of Administrative Services, Human Resources, Instruction and Student Services and other appropriate personnel.

In the event of a major power outage, who do I contact?

During normal business hours, call into the Facilities Office at extension 2629.

A major power outage can occur at any time and at any location, but is most hazardous when school is in session.  The inherent danger during a power outage is panic.  Personnel should remain calm.  All departments should assess the effects of the outage; decisions can then be made about resources needed to overcome temporary problems (especially important in labs).  The decision to cancel classes and/or work or to evacuate parts or all of the campus is determined by the executive administration.

 

Elevators present a particular safety issue during a power outage because most are not on the emergency power system.  Any elevator containing trapped personnel must be reported to the Campus Police Dispatch at extension 2289 and/or the Facilities Office at extension 2629.

 

How do I know if Facilities has received my work request or how do I check the status of my work request? 

Routine status requests should be telephoned into the Facilities Office at extension 2629 or they can be emailed to the Facilities Office
 

How do I request that a banner be displayed on campus?

Submit a request to the Facilities Review Committee by emailing Bonnie Dowd at bdowd@palomar.edu  

 

A committee is presently working on a manual that deals with a number of issues, including temporary signs and banners.  In the future, banners will only be allowed to remain up for a specific period of time.  Banner proposal: One (1) week for signs to be posted in the lawn areas and Thirty (30) days for banners on buildings.  Banners are permitted on campus subject to the following restrictions:

  • Location and installation shall be aesthetically pleasing in its context.

  • Attachment to exterior or interior of buildings may be made only at previously approved locations.

  • Installation shall be made in a previously approved fashion so that it will not damage the building or building components.

  • Attachment shall not compromise building safety and/or security requirements.

  • Attachment shall not be made to light posts, sign posts, trees, other plant materials, or to structures or art pieces not associated with buildings.

  • Banners with a commercial message are prohibited.

  • Banners shall not contain language, symbols or graphics that are obscene or discriminatory in nature.

  • Quality and design of the banner must be first-rate and shall present an image consistent with the college’s prominence in the community.

  • Size of banner shall be appropriate for the intended location.

How do I obtain permission to park a vehicle on a campus sidewalk?

Access the Facilities Forms webpage: http://www.palomar.edu/facilities/ and select the Vehicle Access on Sidewalks Request Form.  Obtain the necessary signatures and forward the form to the Facilities Office. 

  • To request clearance to operate a vehicle on college sidewalks or drive/park on lawn, written permission must be submitted on the above referenced form.

  • This request also applies to outside vendors and/or persons working special events on campus.

  • Once approved the form must be kept inside vehicle and be clearly visible to Facilities personnel.

  • All vehicles must have an escort in the direction of travel.  The escort shall ask people to clear the sidewalk for the passage of the vehicle in a safe manner.

  • All vehicles on the sidewalks shall be operated at an average walking speed or pace.

  • Any person operating a vehicle on a district sidewalk shall be responsible for any damage caused during the operation of said vehicle.

  • All vehicles shall remain on the concrete or asphalt sidewalk surfaces.

  • Pedestrians always have the right-of-way; drivers shall be extremely cautious when passing pedestrians and at any sidewalk intersection or blind corner.

How do I obtain permission to borrow district-owned equipment or tools?

Access the Facilities Forms webpage: http://www.palomar.edu/facilities/ and select the Equipment/Tool Loan Program Request Form.  Obtain the necessary signatures and forward the form to the Facilities Office.

  • District policy prohibits the loaning of District equipment for personal usage.

  • You may borrow a tool for up to one (1) week, unless a shorter loan period if specified.  If you need to keep a tool longer, you MUST call the Facilities office at extension 2629 to make arrangements to do so.  Extensions are given at the discretion of the Facilities Director and depend mostly on demand for the tool.

  • If a tool you borrow, is broken or damaged through misuse or neglect, or it is lost while in your possession, you will have to pay for its repair or replacement (please note that you are responsible for asking any questions about the safe and proper operation of the tool being borrowed).

  • All tools are to be returned to the Facilities Office ON TIME during regular business hours (7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.), unless another time is arranged with the Facilities Office.  If the tool is not returned at the time agreed upon, a late fee of $1.00 per day will be charged.

  • All tools must be cleaned before they are returned.

CUSTODIAL
 

How do I make a routine maintenance request?

Examples:

  • Respond to emergency spill cleanup

  • Bee hive removal*

Routine maintenance requests should be telephoned into the Facilities Office at extension 2629 or they can be emailed to the Facilities Office

 

NOTE: *What is a swarm?  Bee Swarms mostly occur in the spring, rarely in the early fall and almost never in the last summer.  A honey bee swarm can be described as a compact ball of bees, as small as a grapefruit (uncommon), to the size of a football (most common), to as large as a basketball (also uncommon).  No nest materials will be seen or found.  If you see a nest (hive) it is not a swarm.  Swarms appear suddenly and will temporarily settle on a branch, bush or even objects like cars or hydrants while scout bees search for a permanent nest site.  Swarms in the clustered stage are relatively gentle and the risks of stings are low. 

 

Dealing with Swarms:

  • Do not disturb it. Keep pedestrians, children and pests away from the swarm.

  • Calmly walk away from them and never swat them.

  • A swarm usually relocated to a permanent nest within 24 hours.

  • It is the policy of the Facilities department to not remove a swarm.

How do I request services, such as?

Examples:

  • Cleaning restrooms and replenishing supplies

  • Emptying and cleaning wastebaskets and trash cans

  • Cleaning classrooms

  • Cleaning offices

  • Vacuum carpets

  • Ant and mouse traps

  • Dead animal removal (mice and rats)

Routine service requests should be telephoned into the Facilities Office at extension 2629 or they can be emailed to the Facilities Office

 

How do I request furniture moves and event setups?

 Examples:

  • Office moves

The following types of requests are not handled by Facilities, they are handled through Palomar College’s Events Scheduler.   Please visit Events Scheduler’s webpage to get more information and for the correct forms to complete at: http://www.palomar.edu/adminserv/facilitiesforms.htm

  • Graduation ceremonies

  • Retirement parties

  • Staff Development Day

  • College sponsored events

  • Special meetings/functions

Complete a Facilities Work Request Form by accessing the Facilities Form webpage: http://www.palomar.edu/facilites/ and select the http://www.palomar.edu/facilities/WorkReqstForm.pdf, obtain the necessary signatures, provide an account number and submit it to the Facilities Office.  Facilities Work Request Forms are available on the webpage at: http://www.palomar.edu/facilities/WorkReqstForm.pdf or can be acquired by calling the Facilities Office at extension 2629.

 

ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH AND SAFETY
 

In case of an emergency, what procedures do I follow?

Access the Environmental Health and Safety webpage http://www.palomar.edu/ehs/.

 

How do I obtain a license to drive a college-owned maintenance cart?

Access the Environmental Health and Safety webpage http://www.palomar.edu/ehs/ and select “Cart Safety Training.”  Once employees have passed the quiz, you will receive a cart license through campus mail.

 

NOTE: It is imperative that all carts be kept off the main sidewalk during the hours of 7:30 a.m. through 3:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, while classes are in session.

 

How do I obtain information about Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS)?

Access the Environmental Health and Safety webpage http://www.palomar.edu/ehs/ and select MSDS by Department.

 

How do I report hazardous situations?

Access the Environmental Health and Safety webpage http://www.palomar.edu/ehs/ and select Hazard Identification Form.

 

How do I conduct a self-guided safety inspection of my department/classroom?

Access the Environmental Health and Safety webpage http://www.palomar.edu/ehs/ and select Building Inspection Form.

 

How do I request a workstation evaluation?

Submit a request to Environmental Health & Safety by emailing Kelley Hudson-MacIsaac at: kmacisaac@palomar.edu.

 

FACILITIES PLANNING
 

How do I obtain an Inventory Request Form?

Access the Facilities Forms webpage: http://www.palomar.edu/facilities.htm and select the Inventory Request Form.

 

Who can answer my questions regarding inventory?

Routine inventory questions should be telephoned into Diane Rabe, Inventory Control Technician, at extension 2773 or sent via email to: drabe@palomar.edu.

 

How do I obtain a Capital Outlay and Facilities Request Form?

Access the Facilities Forms webpage: http://www.palomar.edu/facilities.htm and select the Capital Outlay & Facilities Request Form.

For more information regarding the Capital Outlay Process, access the Facilities Planning Manual through the California Community Colleges Chancellor’s Office webpage as follows:  http://www.cccco.edu/divisions/fiscal/references/fac_pln_mnl_links/Chapt_01.PDF.

 

Routine questions regarding this process should be telephoned into Kelley Hudson-MacIsaac, at extension 2772 or sent via email to: kmacisaac@palomar.edu.

Where do I obtain information regarding Space Inventory Procedures?

Access the California Community Colleges Chancellor’s Office webpage as follows: http://www.cccco.edu/divisions/fiscal/facilities/references/ref_file_links/Space_Inventory_Handbook.doc

The physical space inventory database provides the statistical basis for many internal, state and federal reports regarding campus buildings, their usage and occupants.

 

Routine questions regarding this process should be telephoned into Kelley Hudson-MacIsaac, at extension 2772 or sent via email to: kmacisaac@palomar.edu.

 

How to I obtain permission to remove district-owned property?

Access the Facilities Forms webpage: http://www.palomar.edu/facilities.htm and select the Removal Request of District-Owned Property Request Form.  Obtain the necessary signatures and forward the form to the Diane Rabe, Inventory Control Technician.

 

FACILITIES OFFICE
 

How do I obtain a key?

Access the Facilities Forms webpage: http://www.palomar.edu/facilities.htm and select the Key Request Form.  Obtain the necessary signatures and forward the form to the Facilities Office.

 

NOTE:  All unrestricted classrooms are unlocked by Campus Police.  Please contact Campus Police Dispatch at extension 2289.

 

Where circumstances warrant, departments may request re-keying of locks.  Complete a Facilities Work Request Form by accessing the Facilities Form webpage: http://www.palomar.edu/facilites/ and select the http://www.palomar.edu/facilities/WorkReqstForm.pdf, obtain the necessary signatures, provide an account number and submit it to the Facilities Office along with a Key Request Form http://www.palomar.edu/facilities/use/forms/facilitieskeyrequest606.pdf for each employee that will require access to that facility. Facilities Work Request Forms can be acquired by calling the Facilities Office at extension 2629.

 

Routine questions regarding this process can be answered by contacting the Facilities Office at extension 2629 or via email to the Facilities Office

 

How do I return a key?

Access the Facilities Forms webpage: http://www.palomar.edu/facilities.htm and select the Key Return Form http://www.palomar.edu/facilities/keyreturnform.pdf Forward the form to the Facilities Office.

 

All keys to college buildings are the property of the college and are issued only to district employees.  Keys are obtained through the Facilities Office (RS-5) and must be returned upon termination of employment.  Obsolete or unneeded keys must be returned to the Facilities Office to clear the account of the person to whom they were assigned, as well as to cancel the liability of the authorizing department. Employees are limited to one key per room or area.  DO NOT DUPLICATE OR TRANSFER KEYS.

 

How do I report a lost or stolen key?

Lost or stolen keys must be reported to Campus Police, by dialing extension 2289, within 24 hours of discovery of loss or theft.  Persons in possession of unauthorized keys may be guilty of a misdemeanor as outlined in the California Penal Code Section 469.  Replacement keys will be issued only after submission of a new completed Key Request Form and a Police Report.

 

How do I request a college vehicle?

All college employees must be approved by the California Department of Motor Vehicles in order to be able to drive a college vehicle.

 

Access the Facilities Forms webpage: http://www.palomar.edu/facilities.htm and select the Request for Authorization to Drive College Vehicle Form.  Obtain the necessary signatures and forward the form to the Facilities Office for processing to the DMV in Sacramento.  The Facilities Office will notify your department if your request has been approved or denied by the DMV.

 

If your request has been approved, access the Facilities Forms webpage: http://www.palomar.edu/facilities.htm and select the Use of College Vehicle Request Form.  Obtain the necessary signatures and forward the form to the Facilities Office for scheduling.

 

Credit cards, trip tickets and vehicle keys will be issued by the Facilities Office for your department’s usage.  The Facilities Office will explain to each driver how to fill out the trip ticket form.

 

How do I request campus signage?

Complete a Facilities Work Request Form, obtain the necessary signatures and submit it to the Facilities Office. Complete a Facilities Work Request Form by accessing the Facilities Form webpage: http://www.palomar.edu/facilities and select the http://www.palomar.edu/facilities/WorkReqsForm.pdf, obtain the necessary signatures, provide an account number and submit it to the Facilities Office. A modular, flexible, recyclable system of standardized signs will be used throughout the campus.  The system consists of a series of directional signs, building identification signs and ADA signs.

Responsibilities for Campus Signage:

In New Buildings: For new construction, the cost of the signs is a capital expense that should be funded by the project budget.

In Existing Buildings: After installation, the departments will be responsible for funding any component or name changes.

Routine questions regarding this process can be answered by contacting the Facilities Office at extension 2629 or via email to the Facilities Office

How frequently does Facilities charge for labor and materials?

The requesting department is charged for labor and materials used to complete the project.  Billable services are charged on a monthly basis usually at the beginning of each month.

 

Routine questions regarding this process can be answered by contacting the Facilities Office at extension 2629 or sent via email to the Facilities Office

 

GROUNDS & RECYCLING
 

How do I contact Facilities to report a grounds emergency?

Examples:

  • Broken sprinkler

  • Irrigation line ruptured

During normal business hours, emergencies should be telephoned into the Facilities Office at extension 2629.  After regular business hours, emergencies should be telephoned into the Palomar College Campus Police by dialing extension 2289.

 

How do I make a routine grounds maintenance request?

Examples:

  • Tree and shrub trimming

  • Repairing and maintaining concrete walls and sidewalks

  • Masonry work

  • Snake removal

Routine grounds maintenance requests should be telephoned into the Facilities Office at extension 2629 or they can be emailed to the Facilities Office

 

How do I “adopt-a-garden?”

Departments or individuals staff members on campus are allowed to volunteer assisting and maintaining very small areas around their workplace.  Volunteers assist by pulling weeds, removing trash and planting flowers.  Interested departments or volunteers perform these functions on their own time often during their breaks or lunch.   Interested staff members must the Supervisor of Grounds Services, Rick Kratcoski, via email at: rkratcoski@palomar.edu prior to starting any work.  Routine questions regarding this process can be answered by contacting the Facilities Office at extension 2629 or sent via email to the Facilities Office

 

How do I obtain permission for my class to access the Cactus Garden?

The Cactus Garden is maintained by the Palomar Cactus and Succulent Society.  Any tours or information regarding the Cactus Garden must be obtained from the Society’s representative.  For contact information, please call the Supervisor for Grounds Services, Rick Kratcoski at extension 2629 or sent via email to: rkratcoski@palomar.edu

 

Where can I obtain information regarding the Palomar College Arboretum?

In 1973, a five (5) acre hillside on the San Marcos campus was set aside for an arboretum.  Soon thereafter, many trees, palms and bamboos from around the world were planted and labeled, making the arboretum not only an area for the study of botany, but also a place to study, relax and bond with nature.  There are currently plans to expand the arboretum site, which includes more than 44 undeveloped acres.

 

In 1995, a group was organized to help and assist the college staff with the arboretum’s operation and maintenance.  This group, called the Friends of the Palomar College Arboretum (FOPA) is an organization composed of biologists, naturalists, horticulturalists, business men and women, retirees, college students, college staff and the general public.

 

The Friends of the Palomar College Arboretum (FOPA) continues to grow and always welcomes new members.  The arboretum has been funded and assisted by the college, the Patrons of Palomar College, FOPA, the Associated Student Government (ASG), volunteers and local Boy Scout troops.

 

Membership forms are available by accessing the following webpage: http://www.palomar.edu/arboretum/memberform.txt.

 

To contact the Friends of the Palomar College Arboretum (FOPA):

  • Rick Kratcoski, Membership Chairperson, by dialing extension 2133 or via email: rkratcoski@palomar.edu.

  • Brian Hawthorne, President, at (760) 745-0289

How do I have a snake removed from the building or grounds area?

If you have a snake problem, we can help remove the snake(s) in a humane way.  Once the snake(s) have been captured, we set the snakes loose in an environment where we feel they will pose the least threat to humans.

 

Routine requests for snake removal should be telephoned into the Facilities Office at extension 2629 or they can be emailed to the Facilities Office

 

Whom do I call to get my recycling picked up?

During normal business hours, routine service requests should be telephoned into the Facilities Office at extension 2629 or they can be emailed to the Facilities Office

 

Recycling materials are collected once a week on the designated recycling collection day.  If you have recycling materials that do not fit into the recycling container, please contact the Facilities Office at extension 2629 or they can be emailed to the Facilities Office to request a larger recycling container temporarily.

 

  We CANNOT Recycle the Following:   We CAN Recycle the Following:
  • Adhesives

  • Carbon paper

  • Ceramics

  • Foam

  • Food-soiled paper

  • Mirrors

  • Plastic bags

  • Wax paper

  • Glass Bottles & Jars (clear and colored)

  • Cardboard

  • Newspapers (including inserts, coupons, etc.)

  • Cans (including clean and dry paint cans and empty aerosol cans)

  • Mixed paper (writing paper – all colors, calculator paper, computer paper, Xerox paper, envelopes (including windows), NCR forms, catalogs, brochures, magazines, junk mail, phone books, post-it-type notes and shredded paper).

  • Toner, facsimile and copying machine cartridges

 

  FISCAL SERVICES
BUDGET
 

Where can I locate budget forms and instructions?

http://www.palomar.edu/fiscal_services/Budget/.

 

Where can I locate expenditure transfer forms and instructions?

http://www.palomar.edu/fiscal_services/Budget/.

 

PEOPLESOFT
 

I

How do I delete a scope?

Send the name of the scope in an e-mail to Traci Sickinger


How do I obtain nVision report training?

Contact Traci Sickinger 3113.  To obtain PeopleSoft information go to: http://www.palomar.edu/fiscal_services/PeopleSoft/.

 

TRAVEL
 

What is Palomar College’s travel policy?

You may obtain this information by going to: http://www.palomar.edu/fiscal_services/Travel/.

 

How do I obtain travel approval?

Complete a Request for Travel Approval/Claim for Travel Expense form (top and left side), obtain approving signature(s) and send to Fiscal Services.  You may obtain the forms and additional travel information by going to: http://www.palomar.edu/fiscal_services/Travel/.

 

How am I reimbursed for travel?

Fill out the same Request for Travel Approval/Claim for Travel Expense form requesting reimbursement by completing the right side of the form, attaching receipts and obtaining authorized signature. To obtain forms and instructions go to: http://www.palomar.edu/fiscal_services/Travel/.

 

How am I reimbursed for business mileage?

For employees who travel frequently and routinely fill out a Business Mileage Claim form.  To use the business mileage claim form employees must also complete a Blanket County Travel Approval form for the entire fiscal year.  To obtain forms and instructions go to: http://www.palomar.edu/fiscal_services/Travel/.

 

How do I make arrangements and pay for airfare?

Airfare can be obtained by one of a few methods.  You may obtain the procedures by going to:  http://www.palomar.edu/fiscal_services/Travel/

 

How long does it take for a reimbursement check to be issued?

Advance travel registration and lodging payment requests, reimbursement claims and business mileage claims must be received in Fiscal Services on Tuesday by noon, in order to make the weekly check run on Thursdays.  Employee checks are disbursed on Friday’s and sent through campus mail.  Checks issued to hotel and registration vendors are mailed directly to the vendors.

 

  INFORMATION SERVICES
 

Who do I call if I have a computer or printer problem?

Information System's Helpdesk at ext. 2140.

 

Where would I find information about buying a computer or software?

For work or home use, you can obtain the information at: http://www.palomar.edu/nibblesandbits

 

How can I change my password on my computer?

Hold down CTRL/ALT/DELETE keys on the keyboard.  The bottom, left- hand side button should say "Change Password".  Click on that button and follow the steps.  If you have any problems, please call ext.2140 for help.

 

How do I get set up for computer use and email?

Have the department ADA, Chair, Supervisor, Manager, Director or VP fill out the Access Request form that can be found on the IS web page: http://infoservices.palomar.edu/.

 

Who do I contact if an employee is no longer working for Palomar College and their computer accounts need to be removed?

Use the Access Request form ( http://infoservices.palomar.edu/ ), fill out the "remove" part of the form.

 

If I can log into any computer on campus, why can't I get my email from Outlook on all of the computers?

Outlook email is configured for one person - per one computer (your regularly used computer).  You may obtain your email from any computer world wide, by going to http://mail.palomar.edu . You will connect to a logon page and all of the instructions to continue are on that page.

 

How do I order a new telephone, fax service or data line?

Fill out the Data Telephone Services Request form which can be found on the IS web page:  http://infoservices.palomar.edu/, get the appropriate signatures and account information, turn the form into the Information System's Helpdesk.  Helpdesk will process the paperwork and create the work order for the Telecommunications tech or contracted vendor to complete the work.

 

Who can help me with PeopleSoft questions?

Call the Helpdesk at ext.2140 and they will either answer your question or create a work order for either a tech or a programmer to help you.

 

Who do I contact if I have questions or problems with a phone?

Call Information System's Helpdesk at ext.2140 or the Switchboard at ext."0".

 

Who would I contact if I cannot remember my PIN number for the telephone?

Call Switchboard at "0" or Information System's Helpdesk at ext.2140, they can re-set it.

 

  PAYROLL
 

1) How can I start a TSA?

 First you must open an account with the company you want to participate in.  Second, make sure that the company you want to contribute to is on the list of approved TSAs.  If it’s not, please contact Jackie Wood at ext. 2884.  If the company that you want to contribute is on the list of approved Vendors, fill out a ‘Salary Reduction Agreement’ and turn it in to Payroll Services.  The ‘SRA’ is available on the following web address: http://www.palomar.edu/payrollservices/payrollforms.htm

 

2) How can I cancel any of my voluntary deductions?

Please complete Cancellation Notice of Voluntary Payroll Deduction available at this web address http://www.palomar.edu/payrollservices/payrollforms/CancelDeduction.docSubmit Cancellation Notice to Payroll Service for processing.

 

CLASSIFIED
 

How do I get a new classified absence report?

Contact Jackie (x2884) in Payroll to get a copy. They are not on-line.

 

I would like to buy-back PERS service credit, how do I get the paperwork?

Call PERS at 1-800-352-2238.

 

How many hours of sick time do I get each year and when do they get advanced?

96 hours are advanced to 12 month, full-time classified employees. Anyone with a less than12 month and/or less than 100% assignment receives a proportionate number of hours, e.g., a 10 month, 80% employee will be credited with 64 hours of sick leave. All full-pay sick leave is advanced on July 1st.

 

What happens when I run out of sick leave?

You will automatically be put on ½ pay for any sick hours reported.

 

What happens when I run out of personal necessity?

Those hours will be charged to vacation, if you have any; otherwise, they will be docked.

 

If it’s close to the end of the fiscal year, can my next fiscal year’s sick leave allowance be advanced to me?

No.

 

What happens if I still have Personal Necessity hours left, but I have no sick leave at full-pay remaining?

If you have a zero balance in sick leave, you DO NOT have any Personal Necessity left either. Payroll will be making a manual adjustment to zero out any remaining Personal Necessity when sick leave has been exhausted.

 

I need more vacation than my check stub shows that I have.

If you need more than one day, you must request advanced vacation (form in In payroll or on web site).

 

I’m scheduled to be off-salary 3.6 hours; how long is .6?

36 minutes (.6 * 60min).

 

ADJUNCT FACULTY
 

What are the pay dates for adjunct faculty?

Pay dates for full length semester classes are as follows: Summer semester - July 20 & August 20; Fall semester - Sept 20, October 20, November 20 & December 20; Spring semester - February 20, March 20, April 20 & May 20.  When the 20th falls on a weekend or holiday, pay day is the preceding work day. Questions regarding payment for non-conventional assignments should be referred to Cathy Hawkins, ext. 2138.

 

I don’t seem to have enough Federal &/or State taxes taken out of my paycheck. Why?  Due to the annualized tax schedule & the division of adjunct pay, there are some cases that the taxable gross is not subject to Federal &/or State tax, or very little.  Additional taxes can always be deducted by indicating an additional amount on a W-4(Federal) or DE-4(State) form.

 

When can I use my sick leave?

As stated in the Adjunct handbook, “Sick leave may be used when the instructor is ill or in cases of personal necessity including any of the following: death or serious illness of a member of immediate family; accident, involving person or property,