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City Council Minutes <br />July 1, 2019 <br />Page 9 <br />Mr. Portner noted the odd situation as this is the first time in a very long time the <br />liquor stores have been fully staffed. He stated, historically the stores haven't utilized <br />their full allotment of part-time hours. He discussed some future retirements that <br />could occur. He noted this is an enterprise operation and when there are part-time/ <br />full-time vacancies it can create stress and pressure. He stated this change would <br />create some stability and allow for more flexibility in the interim. <br />Mayor Dietz stated he believes the organization change is worth it if there are good, <br />qualified managers but it would be different if it affected the city budget versus the <br />enterprise fund. <br />Councilmember Wagner expressed concerns with future competition so she is <br />unsure about changing the structure. She stated there are not enough details on <br />knowing the full impact of these changes. She stated the budget increase takes away <br />from investment into the park and recreation improvement fund. She would like the <br />added position to pay for itself. <br />Mr. Audette discussed the customer service aspects of a city liquor operation, noting <br />a fully -staffed, highly -trained, management team is important. <br />Councilmember Westgaard stated he has no issues with the request noting it is <br />difficult to find good employees. <br />Councilmember Christianson stated he would like more information and suggested <br />further discussion at the next Council meeting. <br />Mr. Audette expressed concern with losing candidates if this item is delayed. <br />Mr. Portner stated competition and legislative changes will cause evaluation of the <br />liquor operations regardless of the organizational changes being considered tonight. <br />Councilmember Wagner stated there are no numbers of how this change will affect <br />the budget and profits. <br />Mr. Audette stated part-time hours will be reduced which will help offset some costs. <br />Councilmember Wagner stated she will support it but when it comes to budget <br />planning she will expect further review. <br />Council consensus to move forward with the organizational changes. <br />II. Adjournment <br />There being no further business, Mayor Dietz adjourned the meeting of the Elk <br />River City Council at 9:17 p.m. <br />ETURE <br />