Minutes - Council Work Session - 10/13/2015

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City Administrator Ulrich stated that in the first case, with the event specialist position, that was a position that was newly hired and established on the market rate at the time. He explained that the position continues to follow the step increases but staff is recommending to keep the position the same and not go forward with reclassification. He referenced the second case, regarding the reclassification of the permit assistant position. Human Resources Manager Lasher stated that the impact to the budget was $1,100 but explained that Finance Director Lund stated that there would be a zero dollar increase rather than the $1,177, which was included in the budget because of other factors. She stated that this position was unique in that there had been a strategy going decided upon by the Council in the past for the position to be reclassified after one year, noting that the minutes from that meeting were included in the packet for review. Councilmember Riley expressed discontent that there are already changes being found for the budget which was already passed. Mayor Strommen noted that the budget was certified to the County but that means that the budget and levy cannot be increased from that figure but can be lowered prior to the final adoption in December. Human Resources Manager Lasher continued to review the details of the market rate adjustments proposed in the staff report. Councilmember Shryock asked for further clarification regarding market rate adjustments, cost of living increases and increases that occur with position changes. She asked if there is a maximum set that would prevent someone from receiving a 12 percent increase with promotions. Human Resources Manager Lasher explained that when someone is in steps one through six, they receive a step change on their anniversary date, which is four percent. She explained the process she follows to conduct comparison and negotiations with the union positions and non- union positions. She also provided information regarding the cost of living increases. She explained how the process for recruiting occurs and how that would apply to employees that are promoted to different positions. 2.02: Confirm Council Direction for the Ramsey Resident in 2016 Asst. City Administrator/Economic Development Manager Brama reviewed the staff report. Councilmember Shryock stated that she has additional concerns and would recommend staying with the current process until the necessary decisions can be made. She recognized the importance of getting the necessary information to the residents but believed there may be additional options for cost savings. She stated that perhaps the City does not need to use color, can use only two colors, or could possibly use color on the outside and black and white on the inside. City Council Work Session / October 13, 2015 Page 5 of 8