Laserfiche WebLink
Mayor Ramsey noted if all 15 employees participated, even if the positions were rehired it would <br />still save $184,000. <br />Human Resources Representative Lasher stated that is correct minus costs for recruitment and <br />training. <br />Councilmember Strommen concurred with the point made by Councilmember Elvig that if the <br />positions were replaced and one or two new employees added, the cost is back to the same level. <br />Councilmember McGlone felt growth had no bearing because the City would have to hire <br />anyway if there is growth. <br />Councilmember Elvig stated this type of program would break down the City's staff and then the <br />City would have to get staffing levels back up -to -speed with recruitment and training costs. <br />Mayor Ramsey noted the City is currently in a "slow mode" so it would not hurt the City if <br />people took advantage of this policy. He agreed that if the City grew quickly there may be an <br />impact; however, by then some of the employees may have retired anyway. Mayor Ramsey <br />stated it seems like a lot of work if only 5% to 10% of employees participate. He would not be <br />opposed to offering the program, but based on past history, felt this program may not be worth <br />implementing. He asked what would it cost (time and effort) to implement the program. <br />Councilmember Elvig asked about the level of employee interest. <br />Human Resources Representative Lasher stated there would be staff time to set up meetings with <br />Minnesota State Retirement System, hold staff meetings to explain the process, complete <br />paperwork, etc. <br />Mayor Ramsey stated there will also need to be meetings with unions. <br />Councilmember McGlone pointed out that even <br />savings would be $200,000 to $300,000. He s <br />suggested staff be polled to determine interest. <br />if only two or three employees participate, the <br />ated he is willing to support the program and <br />Deputy City Administrator Nelson stated staff was surveyed in the past but what is germane to <br />their input is what the program would look like, terms it contains, so they can determine if it <br />would work for them. <br />Councilmember Wise suggested this discussion be tabled so discussion can occur on other areas <br />where savings could be gained. He agreed that loss of employees results in loss of City history <br />and he thinks the City is starting to see growth, the housing industry is starting to come back, and <br />the downward trend will not continue. Councilmember Wise stated it appears this program is <br />time consuming to implement and may not net a huge savings. <br />Councilmember Backous stated he thinks the plan is reasonable and would support it. He stated <br />he does not think all 15 employees will take advantage of the program, but it may be more than a <br />City Council Work Session / February 14, 2012 <br />Page 7 of 10 <br />