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City Council Minutes November 13, 2007 Page 2 bill in 2009. He proposed providing services on an hourly basis to prepare an application in • 2008 to be submitted by the city to keep our request up front but that for the major effort to be extended for an application in 2009. Mayor Klinzing questioned if the city funding the transportation studies up front makes a difference. Mr. Tinklenberg indicated that it is best to identify other items that could be completed in 2009 for which funds would normally be expended by the city rather than to request reimbursement. Counciltnember Motin congratulated Mr. Tinklenberg on his plans to run for Congress. Councilmember Motin questioned if Mr. Tinklenberg is elected if our project being tied to him would hurt Elk River. Mr. Tinklenberg indicated that the application should be submitted from the city. Councilmember Motin questioned if the reauthorization bill will be approved after the 2008 elections. Mr. Tinklenberg explained that yes, he expects the reauthorization to be approved in 2009. Ms. Johnson clarified that the city cannot submit an application for a project the city is funding twice. Mr. Tinklenberg confirmed Ms. Johnson is correct and stated that the application should be far new project costs. Public Works Director Terry Maurer questioned if the city should increase the amount requested. Councilxnember Farber stated the city should apply for the entire project cost of $250 million. Mr. Tinklenberg stated that it may be better to submit a project oriented request. He noted that the city spending the money up front for the transportation studies shows commitment. Councilmember Farber questioned if the city has an advantage by being a member of the coalition. Mr. Tinklenberg indicated that there is a benefit to Elk River in working with other member cities. Mayor Klinzing added that the coalition has always supported Elk River's requests. The Council requested that Mr. Tinklenberg work with staff to submit a proposal for his services. 5.2. 2008 Flexible Benefits Plan Contribution Human Resources Representative Lauren Wipper outlined four options fox plan design and city contributions as outlined in her staff report. MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER MOTIN AND SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER FARBER TO APPROVE A 5% INCREASE TO THE CITY CONTRIBUTION FOR EACH INSURANCE PLAN AND TO PROVIDE UP TO AN ADDITIONAL $300 HEALTH SAVINGS ACCOUNT MATCH FOR THE EMPLOYEES CHOOSING THE HIGH DEDUCTIBLE HEALTH PLAN (WITH THE CITY MATCHING $1 FOR EVERY $4 CONTRIBUTED BY THE EMPLOYEE UP TO $300). MOTION CARRIED 5-0. •