4.1. DRAFT MINUTES (4 SETS) 05-06-2013

Home Browse Search

City Council Minutes Page 4 April 8,2013 extended permit and inspection hours on Mondays by appointment. He noted that specific language is not included in the policy as staff feels it is more appropriate to allow the Building Safety Division to set their own inspection schedule independent of the policy. Mayor Dietz noted that he spoke with Elk River Municipal Utilities and they are not interested in implementing summer hours for their employees. This policy will be brought back for formal approval on an upcoming consent agenda. 6.4. Council Liaison Policv Mr. Portner presented his staff report. Councilmember Burandt is in favor of allowing a Council Liaison to participate in discussions with their boards or commissions to a certain level. Councilmember Motin indicated he likes the policy as drafted. Mayor Dietz explained he is not convinced a policy is necessary. He would like to be allowed to participate in discussion/deliberation at any time during the meeting and not just when asked to participate. He also stated a Council Liaison should be able to provide his/her personal opinion on an item if a commissioner asks for it. Councilmember Motin disagreed. He stated the boards and commissions are advisory and Councilmembers will be given a chance to provide their opinion when the item comes before the Council for consideration. He stated that the exception would be if the Council has already discussed the same issue as outlined in 1(d) of the draft policy.He added he believes discussion and debate on an item should be limited to the actual appointed members of a commission. Councilmember Burandt stated she believes the Council Liaison should be able to provide background information and assist in clarifying issues when needed. She stated many times a Council liaison will have background that may be helpful to the commission and she doesn't believe one Councilmember's opinion would sway a vote. Councilmember Westgaard indicated a Councilmember should be able to provide their opinion if asked but should not advocate their personal position. Mayor Dietz clarified whether or not it is appropriate for the liaison to ask questions in order to clarify an item on the agenda. Consensus was that gathering information in order to clarify an issue would be appropriate. Councilmember Wilson indicated he believes a liaison expressing their personal opinion may actually influence the commission's decision. Mr. Portner stated he will revise the draft policy based on feedback and bring it back. 6.5. Council Code of Conduct Mr. Portner presented his staff report.