Agenda - Council Work Session - 09/03/2019 - Special

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2020 General Fund/Levy Review - 3. 2020 Personnel Requests: Request for direction on the continuation of Recreation Programming The August 12th 2019 City Council meeting included a case to "Adopt Resolution #19-189 to Backfill the Vacant Part-time Recreation Specialist Position". The Resolution was supported by three Councilmembers, but did not get the required fourth in favor, and thus Resolution #19-189 was not adopted. At this time, Staff is seeking direction on how to proceed, relative to recreation services for the remaining quarter of 2019— and moreover for 2020, as any level of recreation programming requires staffing and accordingly has some impact upon the 2020 General Fund Budget. There appears to be generally three options or alternatives going forward, which are summarized with pros and cons below: Option 1 Place Resolution #19-189 on the September 10th 2019 City Council agenda as presented on the August 12th agenda. Pros • Backfilling the position would facilitate the City's existing recreational programing, including, the summer concerts at The Draw, Art in the Park, fitness programs (E.g. Zumba dance), learn to kayak events, movies in the park, annual Elmcrest Art Fair, etc. Additionally, Ms. Abigail Proulx completed the necessary pre -employment background checks and as of August 28th 2019 remains ready to join the Ramsey team in providing recreation services for residents. • Most residents view recreation and enrichment programming as a positive and welcome city service. This also includes intangibles like youth diversion, and promotes sense of community. • The position will provide very important back-up to the Public Works Administrative Assistant; especially for park and facility reservations —another service for Ramsey residents.