03-10-2009 ERMU MIN - Laserfiche WebLink

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Page 5 Regular meeting of the Elk River Municipal Utilities Commission March 10, 2009 6.4 Review 2009 Construction Projects The spring thaw is quickly approaching and with that begins the 2009 construction season. Staff is currently prioritizing, designing, and planning for the 2009 capital projects. At the February ERMU Commission meeting staff was directed to bring back for review a list of the 2009 electrical distribution. capital projects. The list presented was discussed. Because of the current stock and the highest priority projects, it was estimated that a minimal amount of wire was needed at this time. Staff has secured quotes for this wire and is asking for approval to purchase at this time. Jerry Gumphrey moved to approve purchase of necessary materials for the top five high prioritized projects. Daryl Thompson seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0. 6.5 Consider Staff Recommendations Pertainin to 36 Hour Work Week At the February 24, 2009, ERMU Commission. meeting, John Dietz brought up the subject of implementing a 36 hour work week for all ERMU employees and directed staffto look into the possibility. Mark Fuchs stated that a lot of the electric work previously contracted out has been taken back in house. Vance Zehringer stated if the new data center chooses to come to Elk River, even a 40 hour work week would be tough. John Dietz listed other options that could be implemented to reduce labor and benefit cost in place of a 36 hour work week. Daryl Thompson asked if staff had been given the opportunity to reduce costs prior to looking into labor cost reduction, staff responded no. Daryl Thompson recommended staffhave the opportunity to come back with ideas. Jerry Gumphrey felt a close eye should be kept on the fmancials as he is notvi favor of cutting back staff at this time. Troy Adams thanked the Commissioners for giving staff an opportunity to address these economic concerns through other options than just labor. John Dietz directed staffto come back at the next meeting with some ideas. 6.1 Consider Wage Survey Inquiries Staffwas directed to do a wage survey similar to what was done last year and present the results at the next ERMU Commission meeting. Other Business John Dietz stated that a question was raised at the last Commission meeting about the posting policy and the reorganization occurring at the Utilities. John Dietz read the following statement. Please understand that reorganization is not a normal occurrence. While it did necessitate moving employees, it did not create job vacancies in the ordinary sense. The Commission determined that it had to move certain employees to facilitate a quick and orderly