Minutes - Council Work Session - 05/10/2011

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Fire Chief Kapler raised the issue of liability. He said he spoke with the City Attorney regarding this. Councilmember Backous questioned how the monthly fee was calculated. Fire Chief Kapler responded it is an estimate. As of now, it looks as though he would work 8 to 10 hours a week. Discussion took place regarding whether this should be a contracting position, or if Fire Chief Kapler should become an employee of St. Francis. The considerations of sharing an employee and the equipment were discussed. Also discussed was the role liability would play in either situation. Deputy City Administrator Nelson noted from a personnel perspective, there would have to be a careful watch on doing private work on City time. The lines can be blurred easily. Councilmember Backous questioned how Ramsey would benefit if Fire Chief Kapler became a part time employee of St. Francis. City Administrator Ulrich explained the priorities and lines would need to be drawn carefully. This situation could be handled like a Joint Powers Agreement. This arrangement is only good for 6 months. He added that determining when he is an employee of Ramsey, and when he is an employee of St. Francis would need to be identified. He suggested Fire Chief Kapler work as an employee of St. Francis, and then a fee would be paid to the City of Ramsey for the service through the Joint Powers Agreement. City Attorney Goodrich confirmed that if the City of Ramsey rents out the "rights" of its Fire Chief to another entity, the other entity should pay a stipend. He said he was sure any liability issues could be solved. Councilmember Jeffrey noted the City of St. Francis should compensate toward the amount of communication devices the Fire Chief needs to carry, since it will increase if he works for St. Francis. Councilmember Tossey suggested the City of St. Francis pay the Fire Chief for his time, and the City of Ramsey for the use of equipment. City Administrator Ulrich stated he will draft a policy and bring it to the next Council meeting on May 17. The policy will be a Joint Powers Agreement with the Fire Chief serving as a secondary employee with the City of St. Francis. There will be an overhead agreement for the equipment he uses, and an extra fee for Fire Chief Kapler's work. The City of Ramsey will get a stipend from the City of St. Francis. 2) Interview Planning Services Consultants for Interview with the City Council Senior Planner reviewed the staff report. City Council Work Session / May 10, 2011 Page 2 of 4