Agenda - Council - 04/24/2018 - Laserfiche WebLink

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City Administrator Ulrich stated that if the Mayor were to declare an emergency, open meeting laws are bypassed, and the Council can be called to make emergency decisions. He stated that Police Chief Katers, Fire Chief Kohner and Public Works Superintendent Riemer have been well trained for emergency scenarios and therefore the City would be in a good position to respond if there were an emergency situation in Ramsey. Councilmember Kuzma thanked staff for the presentation and time that has been put into the training. Police Chief Katers provided additional details on emergency response. Councilmember Shryock left the meeting at 6:30 p.m. 2.02: Discussion Regarding the Public Information and Events Specialist Vacancy and Alternative Staffing Options Human Resources Manager Lasher reviewed the staff report. Asst. City Administrator/Economic Development Manager Brama stated that Ms. Wenberg will be missed and has done a great job. He noted that this is an opportunity to bring someone in with more experience for a full-time position. He stated that the presence of social media continues to take a larger role for the community and the City. He stated that it is important to have a professional that has the experience to response to those comments and that has a full- time investment in the City. He stated that in the interim, economic development staff and administration staff will handle the duties of the position. He noted that the frequency of social media posts will be reduced. He stated that Happy Days will continue to be a high priority as well as the economic development events. Councilmember Kuzma stated that he is not thrilled about the part-time suggestions or an intern and therefore would support a full-time position with an experienced individual. Councilmember Riley stated that recently the Council discussed budget shortfalls and therefore he would not agree with expanding the position. He stated that he would also not agree with part-time position suggestions and would suggest continuing with the current role of the position. Councilmember Johns noted that she would support suggestions two or three but shares the concern of Councilmember Riley regarding the budget concerns. She asked if the current structure of the position and pay scale is part of the reason the employee is leaving. Asst. City Administrator/Economic Development Manager Brama stated that Ms. Wenberg wanted to make the transition to the private sector. He stated that one of the challenges is attempting to recruit a qualified candidate pool for the current position. Councilmember Johns acknowledged that the City may have to take a step down if recruiting for the current position. City Council Work Session / April 9, 2018 Page 3 of 5