Minutes - Council Work Session - 04/28/2015

Home

Mayor Strommen referenced the initiative to create a strong positive image for residential neighborhoods and business districts, which she felt was nicely worded, yet the only thing listed is to enforce the Code, which seems like a negative when considering the positively worded strategic initiative. She suggested rewording to create a positive outcome. Councilmember Johns suggested working in something about creating more of a public appreciation of the City's value to try and get out the message so residents understand and appreciate the value the City brings. City Administrator Ulrich stated enhance community engagement is a strategic initiative but, perhaps, that one could be taken out and instead indicate build a program for public recognition. With the volunteer work, he suggested it could be a tactic to create stronger fabric of the neighborhoods. City Administrator Ulrich stated staff will add some things to that category and make the requested revision. Mayor Strommen noted that with the strategic initiative to enhance community engagement, Tactic 22) Increase engagement opportunity in future land use decisions, the outcome indicators/metrics are focused on the Comprehensive Plan. Councilmember Riley asked if this is a new initiative. City Administrator Ulrich stated it was added because the City will be doing a lot, with the Comprehensive Plan Update in the next few years so staff felt it should be included to engage the public. The Council considered the Strategic Initiative to enhance the level of customer service in Community Development, tactics, and key outcome indicator/metrics. Councilmember Riley asked if the Tech position is the same one recently considered. Community Development Director Gladhill explained that due to the high permit levels, the part- time position does not provide enough hours so it involves reallocation to move the part-time position to a full-time position. Councilmember Riley asked if that is a better answer than contracting it out. Community Development Director Gladhill explained why it is difficult to contract out the permit administration piece because it includes tracking and customer service over the counter and telephone. City Administrator Ulrich stated people spend a lot of money on building permits and expect to receive timely service and inspections. He stated staff is trying to assure getting permits and inspections out on time because it is expected by the contractors. City Council Work Session / April 28, 2015 Page 6 of 9