06-29-1998 CC MIN - Laserfiche WebLink

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City Council Minutes June 29, 1998 Page 5 dollars. Dana Anderson felt that a pool would cost at least 1.5 million dollars and more likely at the 1.8 million dollar level. Mayor Duitsman indicated that he would like to consider two separate questions; one on the outdoor recreation facilities and the other on the pool. He felt that this would give the people an option to vote for one or the other or both. City Administrator Pat Klaers questioned if the city could add money to the project which may make the issue easier to sell. It was the consensus of the Council that a recommendation would have to be made as to where these funds would come from. Councilmember Holmgren suggested two questions and splitting the components as follows: Park and Trail Improvements Park and Trail Improvements and an outdoor swimming pool. Councilmember Dietz was in favor of not splitting the question. He felt that if the question were split the outdoor recreation facilities would not pass. Councilmember Dietz indicated he would rather see improvements to the trails and parks because they receive more use than a pool. Councilmember Thompson and Councilmember Farber indicated that they were in favor of not splitting the question and could support a larger proposal due to the cost of a quality pool. Councilmember Thompson further indicated that he would like to make sure the public is informed of the' annual pool membership cost. 4.8. Consider Applicant for Buildinq Secretary/Receptionist Position Steve Rohlf indicated that aPproximately 50 applications were received for the position of secretary/receptionist for the Building and Zoning Department. He stated that four of the applicants were interviewed and recommended hiring Deborah Long at pay grade 5 with a starting wage of $12.50 per hour. Steve indicated that he felt hiring Deborah Long at $12.50 per hour is within the pay range and is in line with her experience. He indicated that .$12.50 is a higher hourly wage than what several other clerical employees at the City currently receive. Steve indicated that the main issue with the current clerical employee wages is the number of steps in the pay scale and suggested that the personnel committee consider condensing the number of steps in the city's pay scale. Council discussion took place regarding the variables relating to this issue including wanting to hire someone with many years of experience and having to pay more for that experience than what some existing clerical staff are receiving who have the same number, or more, years of experience. Mayor Duitsman indicated that he is not in favor of reviewing the pay scale at this time. Councilmember Dietz indicated that although there are several steps, employees still receive a cost of living increase plus a step increase during the year.