07-22-2002 CC MIN - Laserfiche WebLink

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City Council Minutes July 22, 2002 Page 4 5.4.D. 2003 Personnel Services City Administrator Pat Klaers discussed the 2003 staffnag requests. He further discussed the newly hired information technology employee plus the need for a building maintenance and cleaning program, a Park and P,.ecreation Director and department, an engineering department and Public Services Director. The City Administrator discussed the current organizational system of the city and the need for change due to the extent of growth that has taken place. The City Administrator proposed establishing an engineering department in 2003, hiring Terry Maurer as the Engineer/Public Services Director and then staffing the department in 2004. In 2005 an Assistant Engineer would be hired and then Terry Maurer would just serve as the Public Services Director. The Council questioned the issue of not opening up the position of Engineer/Public Services Director to other applicants. The Council discussed the probability of the City recognizing a savings by hiring Terry Maurer because of his knowledge of the City. Mayor Klinzing indicated that she would need to see the position and needs justified and would like to see the cost savings the city would realize because of Terry Maurer's relation with HR Green and the City of Elk River. Mayor Klmzing also indicated that she would like to see exactly what the responsibilities of the position would be. Councilmember Tveite indicated that he would like to see the net impact into 2004 prior considering this issue. Councilmember Dietz and Councilmember Kuester indicated that they would rather see the department built up gradually. Councilmember Dietz stated that he wanted to know how the department would be funded and questioned how these positions would impact other staffing requests and needs. He further noted that he does not like to see the Park and Recreation Director continually being put on hold although he realizes the need for an engineer. Councilmember Tveite indicated that the position should be justified on the position itself, not by considering a specific person for the position. Councilmember Motin concurred. The City Administrator discussed the issue that the position is not being designed for one specific person but that the Engineer position is best suited to be the Public Services Director. The Council made no decision on this issue at this time and requested further information from staff. 2003 General Update Discussion was held regarding the police liaison program. Assistant Chief Beahen indicated that the school district is seriously considering discontinuing the program and having Sherburne County provide the service. It was indicated that the Police Staffwould be meeting with the school representatives to try to persuade the school to reconsider. The Mayor stated that she would attend this meeting. Other Business The City Administrator informed the Council that the Initiative Foundation has requested the City to contribute $5,000 per year for five years making a total commitment of $25,000. The Council requested information as to what other cities are contributing. The City Administrator indicated that he would provide more information on August 12.