3.0. SR 07-29-2019 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Request for Action To Item Number Mayor and City Council 3.0 Agenda Section Meeting Date Prepared by Action Item July 29, 2019 Cal Portner, City Administrator Item Description Reviewed by Elected Official Travel Request Reviewed by Action Requested Approve, by motion, a request for Councilmember to travel out-of-state for a White House event. Background/Discussion The White House Office of Intergovernmental Affairs is hosting an outreach program with state and local officials on Tuesday, August 20. Mayor Dietz is unable to attend due to a prior commitment. Councilmember Christianson would like to attend in his place. City finance policies relating to elected official out-of-state travel require council approval. The policy is as follows: Elected Official Out-of-State Travel The city recognizes that elected officials may receive value from traveling out of the state for workshops, conferences, events and other assignments. This policy sets forth the conditions under which out-of-state travel will be reimbursed: 1. The event, workshop, conference or assignment must be approved in advance by the City Council at an open meeting and must include an estimate of the cost of the travel. In evaluating the out-of-state travel request, the Council will consider the following: a. Whether they will be receiving training on issues relevant to the city or to his or her role as the mayor or council member. b. Whether they will be meeting and networking with other elected officials from around the country to exchange ideas on topics of relevance to the city or on the official roles of local elected officials. c. Whether they will be viewing a city facility or function that is similar in nature to one that is currently operating, or under consideration, by the city where the purpose for the trip is to study the facility or functions to bring back ideas for the consideration of the full Council. d. Whether s/he was specifically assigned by the Council to testify on behalf of the city at the United States Congress or to otherwise meet with federal officials on behalf of the city. e. Whether the city has sufficient funding available in the budget to pay the cost of the trip. 2. No reimbursements will be made for attendance at events sponsored by or affiliated with political parties. 3. Limitations may be imposed on paying for expenses for a Councilmember who has announced his/her intention to resign, not to seek reelection, or who has been defeated in an election. 4. The Council may request an oral or written report from the elected official on the results of the trip. 5. The city will reimburse for travel, lodging, meals, and registration using the same procedures, limitations and guidelines outlined in this expense and travel reimbursement policy. The Elk River Vision A welcoming community with revolutionary and spirited resourcefulness, exceptional service, and community engagement that encourages and inspires prosperity