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Representative Scott noted that simplification of the tax code needs to occur, but advised that is <br />not an easy process. <br />Representative Whelan noted that the transportation bill will also be a large discussion including <br />increased funding for roads and bridges. She stated that in reference to the bonding bill, they are <br />attempting to hone in on needs versus wants, in order to focus on infrastructure and water needs. <br />Representative Scott noted that there will be some other issues addressed but agreed that those <br />three issues will take a majority of the discussion. <br />Representative Whelan noted that they have been told that they need to have any bills ready to <br />go on day one of the session if they would like it included. <br />Mayor Strommen stated that the Council will need to make decisions on which bills will be <br />included and will meet again with Representatives Whelan and Scott to pass on that information. <br />She welcomed Representatives Whelan and Scott to make a presentation at the regular meeting if <br />they would like in order to reach more of the citizens before the session begins. <br />2.03: Discussion regarding a Possible Revision to the Current Employee Sick Leave for <br />Wellness Policy <br />Human Resources Manager Lasher reviewed the staff report. <br />Councilmember Kuzma stated that in his mind vacation time should be used on vacation and <br />believed that there should be a cap on reimbursement. <br />Human Resources Manager Lasher provided additional information, noting that on the 6th <br />anniversary, the employee would be eligible for eight hours, upon the 12th anniversary the <br />employee would be eligible for 16 hours, and upon the 18th anniversary the employee would be <br />eligible for 24 hours. <br />Mayor Strommen stated that she would also be opposed to reimbursement for equipment. <br />Councilmember Riley agreed that he does not believe the equipment should be included for <br />reimbursement. He stated that he does not think vacation should be included in this as vacation <br />is meant as time away from work and should be used as such and not to be bought out for doing <br />other activities. He stated that the City is overly generous in its time allotted to employees and <br />that is why there is discussion of buying back that time. He did not believe that these are market <br />rates for vacation and sick time, as 31 days could potentially be earned. He stated that the real <br />issue is how much time is being earned. <br />Councilmember Shryock agreed with Councilmember Riley in regard to the accumulation of sick <br />and vacation time. She stated that perhaps there should be a policy where the time needs to be <br />used or lost in order to incentivize employees to use that time. She asked if the health insurance <br />provides credit towards membership dues for health clubs as well, which would provide double <br />reimbursement and could be a tracking issue. She noted that health insurance only pays for use <br />City Council Work Session / February 8, 2016 <br />Page 4 of 6 <br />