Minutes - Council Work Session - 09/27/2016

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Councilmember Johns agreed that she also likes the current service and the ability for single -sort that Ace provides. Councilmember LeTourneau stated that staff did a cost comparison which does not look like the prices were that far out of line. He suggested that perhaps through negotiations staff can attempt to obtain a slightly better rate. He believed that it is important for the City to support a local provider that has a good working history with the City. He also supported the recommendation of the EPB. Mayor Strommen stated that she also liked to see the cost comparison in lieu of the RFP process. The consensus of the Council was to support the recommendation from the EPB to continue the recycling program through a contracted service, and direct staff to initiate negotiations with the current hauler, Ace Solid Waste, on a new contract. Councilmember LeTourneau thanked the EPB for their work on this matter. 2.02: Review 2015 Recreational Opportunity Assessment Parks and Assistant Public Works Superintendent Riverblood reviewed the staff report. Councilmember Kuzma asked for more details on a splash pad. Parks and Assistant Public Works Superintendent Riverblood provided additional details. He stated that hopefully at a worksession in October staff would bring back a discussion to begin a schematic design for the water centric park at The COR. Councilmember Shryock provided input on the opportunities that she enjoyed this past year including kayaking, music, and art events. She stated that she was excited to see the cultural opportunities provided to residents close to their home and would hope those activities would continue. Mayor Strommen noted that there were some items that seem low on the investment scale but could provide a lot of return for the residents. She stated that those items can enhance opportunities in the community without building infrastructure that cannot be sustained. Councilmember Kuzma stated that a bike ride through the Mississippi River trail could be a great addition. Councilmember LeTourneau stated that he would like to see a splash pad, but acknowledged that would be a large investment. He stated that the community feedback has been very positive and the residents seem to look to the City to provide these opportunities. He stated that creation of a list of opportunities could be a start and perhaps it would be helpful to have a staff person, such as an intern that could work on these items and scheduling. City Council Work Session / September 27, 2016 Page 2 of 6