Minutes - Council Work Session - 02/21/2017 - Strategic Planning

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Councilmember Shryock appreciated the work of the staff and Council, noting that the groups both continue to cooperate and work hard to create a great highly functioning community. She recognized the increased outreach the City has done, using the Highway 10 Corridor as an example, noting that the City is emerging as a leader that is willing to take those first steps and push forward. Mayor Strommen referenced the uncontested elections, which she believed is a reflection of the great work the Council has done. City Administrator Ulrich agreed that the continuity of staff and the Council is important and allows planning sessions like tonight to continue to be productive. He stated that community planning and visioning has continued to build a level of trust with the community. Police Chief Katers highlighted the Citizen's Academy and other outreach the department has done that has helped to create transparency. He stated that the residents know the service that is provided but they were able to better learn the why the services are provided. He stated that there have been huge strides made in terms of communication. Finance Director Lund stated that the budget was balanced, even with incorporation of the new personnel positions and road improvements to create a stable tax rate. She also highlighted the AA+bond rating. Fire Chief Kohner stated that he would like to focus on community engagement the fire department has done, which helps to provide safer living for the residents and businesses. He stated that the amount of presentations was increased to provide that level of outreach to seniors. He also highlighted the partnership with Allina and an increased response to high level medical calls. City Clerk Thieling stated that there was a busy election but, with her great team of helpers, they were able to make the event go smoothly and the noted the Councilmembers ran unopposed. Parks and Assistant Public Works Superintendent Riverblood stated that the unopposed Council was also at the top of his list as that helps to provide quality, high efficient services. Councilmember Kuzma noted that another accomplishment was the installation of the public safety data system. City Administrator Ulrich provided an overview of the items that were mentioned and the great accomplishments that were made throughout the year. • Traffic Light Report 2016: Status of Action Items/Celebrate Success City Administrator Ulrich provided an overview of the Strategic Plan and the status on the different items. City Council Strategic Planning Work Session/February 21,2017 Page 3 of 10