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City Council Minutes Page 7 <br /> May 7,2018 <br /> ----------------------------- <br /> There was discussion on the cross-departmental staffing with snowplow operations. <br /> Mayor Dietz stated he appreciates he has received few complaints on snowplow <br /> issues and the crew does a good job. <br /> Councilmember Westgaard expressed concerns as to the direct report process for the <br /> public works director being handled between the community operations and <br /> development director and the parks and recreation director. <br /> Mr. Portner stated it has been working well to-date between everyone. He stated one <br /> challenge is street department work is very linear and based on a schedule,while <br /> parks department works is mainly seasonal and based around weather and <br /> tournaments. He stated currently the setup is a good balance and it's nice the public <br /> works director has a parks background and would be conscientious of park needs. <br /> Councilmember Westgaard stated he doesn't have any issues with implementing this <br /> structure in order to streamline efficiencies but expressed concerns with having two <br /> bosses who could have different priorities,which may work now but could alter with <br /> future staffing changes. <br /> Mr. Portner stated whenever there are staffing changes he reviews the organizational <br /> structure and would bring any recommended changes to Council. <br /> Councilmember Wagner questioned if staff anticipates there may be some employees <br /> dissatisfied with the new structure;thereby causing low morale. <br /> Mr. Portner stated he had an opportunity,due to recent retirements,to meet and talk <br /> to the staff. He further stated they are aware of what is happening and there are a lot <br /> of new people eager to take advantage of learning opportunities. He stated they were <br /> comfortable with it and didn't express concerns. <br /> Ms. Fisher stated she has gotten positive feedback on this from employees. <br /> II. Adjournment <br /> There being no further business,Mayor Dietz adjourned the meeting of the Elk <br /> River City Council at 8:40 p.m. <br /> John J. Dietz,Mayor <br /> Tina Allard, City Clerk <br /> UREJ <br />