Agenda - Council - 10/12/2004 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Councihnember Elvig stated if this type of money is going to be spent, the revenue must be checked to be sure it is in line. He noted there are about eight or nine projects that will require a fairly sizable amount of revenues. He stated there is a need for an alternate plan if there are problems with the economy. Assistant Public Works Director Olson indicated he has requested two engineering interns, which would need to be hired by the end of the school year. City Administrator Norman advised there will be a proposal brought forward regarding the Housing Redevelopment Authority. This does not have immediate budgeting impacts, but does have staffing impacts. Under this proposal Community Development Director Frolik would take on some of the new duties if the Council directs the creation of the HRA. Her duties would be split as the HRA Executive Director/Assistant Community Development Director. Assistant Community Development Director Trudgeon would then assume the position of Community Development Director. The proposed budget does assume the creation of the HRA. Mayor Gamec stated there is a need to get the HRA started. There are some tough areas in the City that will need to be addressed. City Administrator Norman advised the City currently utilizes an HRA levy, but it is being used for industrial development at this time. A shift with this will likely be done in 2006. He noted tomorrow morning at 7:00 a.m. the EDA will be making a levy recommendation. Finance Officer Lund advised the HRA levy being considered is $233,306, which is the maximum. A $200,000 home would pay approximately $29 on this levy. City Administrator Norman advised under this budget there would also be one other staffing change, which is moving the TIF/Development Specialist from Finance to Community Development, and likely changing the title. Public Works Director Kapler reviewed the proposed Public Works organizational chart, which included the creation of a Utilities Department. He explained new employees would be placed in the Parks and Street Departments, and employees with experience would be moved to the Uti lities Department. Councilmember Elvig inquired if a City Utility Department would do its own billing. Finance Officer Lund replied there is not adequate space to accomplish this in the cmTent building. Mayor Gamec stated the clerical type work done by the Public Works Director and the Assistant Public Works Director should be performed by a clerical worker, rather than taking up valuable time fi'om these employees. He stated there is a lack of communication with the public, as these employees are expected to be out in the field and not always available for phone calls. City Council Work Session/September 7, 2004 Page 5 of 7