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Commissioner Westgaard stated that this program seemed to have been born from the <br />COVID-19 protocols which have largely passed. <br /> <br />Ms. Slominski was recognized to provide comments. Ms. Slominski supplied background <br />on the development of the remote work policy that preceded COVID-19, stating that <br />ERMU did not have the means or the technology to offer it to most staff. Ms. Slominski <br />explained that with technology purchased to abide by COVID-19 protocols, ERMU <br />leadership realized they could now serve customers and be a flexible employer. Ms. <br />Slominski added that the four page remote work policy is centered around the customers <br />and maintaining a high level of quality service. <br /> <br />Commissioner Bell asked staff’s opinion as to why there is now a request from field <br />services staff for additional sick time. <br /> <br />Ms. Slominski shared her opinion that there is a member of the field staff who is able to <br />work from home and has needed to due to sick children. Seeing that has made thisissue <br />stand out to the field staff. <br /> <br />Ms. Slominski added that it is getting harder to retain employees and that she is not sure <br />all employees would choose to remain at ERMU if the program is removed. There was <br />discussion. <br /> <br />Commissioner Stewart noted the inherent differences between roles in the field and in <br />the office and therefore what benefits can be offered. She reminded the Commission that <br />the request for additional sick time for field staff is currently just a request and not part of <br />the discussion. She went on to state that the remote work option has been approvedand <br />there is no evidence of failure and recommended the Commission continue to let it work. <br /> <br />Commissioner Stewart explained that the Commission sets parameters at a high level and <br />should not tell management how to operate within those parameters. She added her <br />opinion that terminating the option is “micromanaging” the management group. <br /> <br />Chair Dietz called the motion for a vote. <br /> <br />Mr. Hanson requested the opportunity to share his thoughts. Commissioner Nadeau <br />communicated that he would like to hear Mr. Hanson’s thoughts. Chair Dietz recognized <br />Mr. Hanson. <br /> <br />Mr. Hanson provided his opinion that ERMU has a strong staff and should want to keep it. <br />He added that he was surprised at how well remote work has worked, and that it appears <br />to be a seamless operation. <br /> <br />Mr. Hanson cautioned against changing what is working based on anecdotes from other <br />locations. <br />Elk River Municipal Utilities Commission Meeting Minutes <br />September 13, 2022 <br />Page 5 <br /> <br />34 <br /> <br />