Minutes - Council - 05/13/2008 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Councilmember Look asked why time is of the essence to complete this project and spend $465,000. Assistant City Engineer Himmer stated that time isn't of the essence for the entire project, however it is critical that the watermain looping happen. He stated that, to him, it made sense to look at the other amenities at the same time since the City is already there. Mayor Pro Tern Elvig stated that the thought was that as long as the City is there digging anyway, let's take the opportunity to get these others things done. Be stated that the funds for this are not coming from the tax rolls, but from the water utility fund. Motion by Councilmember Strommen, seconded by Councilmember Olson, to approve City Project #08-29, Alpine Park watermain looping, including the acquisition of Lot 2, Block 6 Peltzer Addition from the MPCA, and order the preparation of plans and specifications for such improvements, including a trail connection to and access/parking facilities within Alpine Park. Motion carried. V oting Yes: Mayor Pro Tern Elvig, Councilmembers Strommen, Olson, Dehen, Jeffrey, and Look. Voting No: None. Absent: Mayor Gamec. Case #9: Adopt Resolution #08-05-XXX Establishing Evaluation Criteria for Vacant and New Positions Councilmember Look stated that in light of the hiring freeze at the State level, the City is looking to determine the importance of positions in the current economic situation. He stated that he wants the residents to know that the Council is taking the budget and economic situation very seriously and although this is not cutting back on staff, but as positions are vacated, using tougher scrutiny to determine if the positions are essential. Councilmember Jeffrey stated that while the City has always had criteria for this purpose, this makes it official. He stated that the Council has the ultimate hiring authority and this is not a hiring freeze, but a sign that the Council will take hiring decisions very seriously. Motion by Councilmember Jeffrey, seconded by Councilmember Olson, to adopt Resolution #08-05-088 Establishing Evaluation Criteria for Vacant and New Positions. Further Discussion: Mayor Pro Tern Elvig stated that he thinks it is important to note that the City is not growing, so there is no purpose in growing staff. He stated that he was not in favor of a hiring freeze because it would take authority away from City Administrator Ulrich who he feels is doing a fabulous job for the City. Motion carried. V oting Yes: Mayor Pro Tern Elvig, Councilmembers Jeffrey, Olson, Dehen, Look, and Strommen. Voting No: None. Absent: Mayor Gamec. MAYOR, COUNCIL AND STAFF INPUT City Council / May 13, 2008 Page 15 of 17