Agenda - Council - 01/28/2020 - Laserfiche WebLink

Home

Administrative Services Director Lasher stated that the rate increase would be less than 2.5 percent but noted that she can compare the previous rates to find the exact percentage. Councilmember Kuzma asked if that item would be approved tonight. Mayor LeTourneau confirmed that the Council will take action on that item at tonight's regular meeting. Councilmember Heinrich stated that she has not reviewed her schedule to determine if she could actively service as the Alternate for the Planning Commission and asked if any other Councilmembers would be interested. Mayor LeTourneau asked the Council to discuss whether there should be a liaison to the Parks or Planning Commissions, as the Council has not had a liaison to those groups in recent years. Deputy City Administrator Gladhill stated that the Environmental Policy Board is the only group that has a City Council liaison and provided background information. He stated that the EDA has members of the Council as voting members. He stated that there has been discussion whether to have liaisons to Planning and Parks Commission, but formal direction has not yet been given. Parks and Assistant Public Works Superintendent Riverblood stated that he does not believe that there has been discussion with himself or the Park and Recreation Commission as to having a City Council liaison. Councilmember Musgrove asked if having a liaison could lead to more in depth discussions. She stated that as a liaison to the EPB, she has found it valuable to be able to provide input and suggestions to the Board as well as the ability to bring the information she learns back to the Council. Mayor LeTourneau stated that there is a structure and communication system in place for the Commissions and asked staff for input. Parks and Assistant Public Works Superintendent Riverblood stated that there would be some value in terms of Council awareness and the larger background on topics that come forward for Council consideration. He stated that a cautionary aspect could be that some Commissioners may not participate as fully with a Council liaison present, as they may not feel as well educated as a Councilmember on certain City topics. He explained that the Park and Recreation Commission provides input on very specific items and staff does not get into operational budget items. Deputy City Administrator Gladhill agreed that there can be value to having a Council liaison for Boards and Commissions but cautioned that there would have to be a well thought announcement as to the reason for a liaison. He explained that the Commission members can feel that there is a lack of trust from the Council in adding a liaison. He stated that staff liaisons City Council Work Session / January 14, 2020 Page 2 of 7