Agenda - Council Work Session - 02/26/2013

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Motion carried. Voting Yes: Chairperson Tossey and Councilmember Kuzma. Voting No: Councilmember Backous. 4.05: Consider a Resolution to Address Building Maintenance Staffing Needs Human Resources Manager Lasher reviewed the staff report and recommendation to approve hiring Jeff Strelow as a regular part -time building maintenance worker, at Step 1 of the 2012 wage scale of $15.99 per hour for 20 hours per week; with the option to work up to 30 hours per week, as determined by the Public Works Superintendent and approved by the City Administrator. All other personnel policies would apply and Mr. Strelow would be subject to a six -month probation. Councilmember Backous asked what the City could do without as far as building maintenance tasks, such as not vacuuming as often. Public Works Superintendent Riemer explained the main focus is coverage to offer to the public, not the activities, since someone needs to be in the building if meeting room spaces are in use. Councilmember Backous asked about the City's policy to use City Hall meeting space. Public Works Superintendent Riemer stated the City charges $75 for the Lake Itasca Room if a resident and $100 if not a resident. If after hours or on a weekend, there is an additional $54/hour charge plus the rental rate. Councilmember Backous asked how those rental rates compare to the City's maintenance expense. City Administrator Ulrich noted the rental fee is waived for non - profits and community groups, which comprises a large percentage of the users. Councilmember Backous stated if the non - profits /community groups are not within Ramsey, he felt the City should reconsider whether the rental fee should be waived. Human Resources Manager Lasher answered the member's questions related to the salary and benefits that had been factored into the cost. Councilmember Backous asked where rental revenues are deposited. City Administrator Ulrich advised rental revenues go into the General Fund. Councilmember Backous suggested rental revenues be used to fund building maintenance staffing needs. Chairperson Tossey agreed since this position was not considered in the 2013 budget and will be a regular employee position. He stated he would like to know the rental revenues received when City Hall rooms are rented. Personnel Committee / January 22, 2013 Page 7of11