3.0 ERMU MINUTES 02-24-2009 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Page 7 Regular meeting of the Elk River Municipal Utilities Cornmission January 13, 2009 starting a fund of this type? Jerry Gumphrey felt this was a good idea but bad timing right now. John Dietz agreed. Consensus was to revisit this subject in April. 6.7 Review General Manager Position Description A draft for the General Manager (GM) duties was presented. John Dietz stated he wants to try restructuring the GM position and keep the duties in house without a GM. John continued by saying the water department would report to Terry Maurer, the public works director at the City of Elk River, Administration department would report to Theresa Slominski, and the Electric Department would report to Troy Adams. The department heads would still have their meetings as usual. Jerry Gumphrey agreed and felt staff could split the current duties of the GM amongst themselves. John Dietz said this was contingent upon the City Council agreeing to have Teny Maurer oversee the water department. Jerry Gumphrey said he thought it was a good idea. Jerry Takle opposes this venture, and said it is not a good idea. Vance Zehringer asked John Dietz and Jerry Gumphrey why they did not want a GM. Vance continued to say that management staff is busy enough already, and that there is a lot involved in GM responsibilities. Jerry Gumphrey commented he feels staff is capable of this, the timing is right and the staff is excellent. He also felt that other people should step up to the plate to assist. Jerry Gumphrey said this would be a good step and ERMU can always go back to a GM. Vance Zehringer asked Commission if the department heads were asked for their opinion of this proposal. Commission responded no. Lori Johnson said this has not been discussed with City Council either. David Berg, Water Superintendent commented he has worked with Terry Maurer for many years. John Dietz said this would need to be discussed with staff first. Theresa Slominski asked how they would assess if this would work or not. John Dietz said it would be revisited monthly. Jerry Gumphrey suggested staff should meet regularly to discuss progress. Troy Adams said taking care of employees and issues is important. Mark Fuchs suggested possibly hiring another department manager if current management gets overwhelmed. John Dietz directed staff to put this on next month's agenda. Jerry Gumphrey suggested staff meet and discuss these issues prior to next months meeting. Other Business John Dietz requested a list of duties for the new consultant to work on. David Berg checked into the tower rental fees and they range from $1000 to $2500 per month. John Dietz suggested tower antenna rental be placed on a future agenda. The next regularly scheduled meeting of the Elk River Municipal Utilities Commission will be Tuesday, February 24, 2009, at 4:30 p.m.