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Further Discussion: Mayor Gamec noted that he had received a call from a resident complimenting Mr. Himmer on his relaxed and soothing method in working with her on a drainage issue. Chairperson Jeffrey stated that he feels Assistant City Engineer Himmer's communication skills are excellent and noted that he seems to be particularly skilled at explaining complex engineering issues in language that everyone can understand. Motion carried. Voting Yes: Chairperson Jeffrey, Mayor Gamec and Councilmembers Dehen. Voting No: None. Case #2: Discussion Regarding Hiring Freeze Human Resources Manager Reed Kone stated that she had surveyed other metro area cities to find out if they were doing anything regarding hiring freezes. She stated that 34 cities responded to her inquiries and only 5 have formal hiring freezes in place. She stated that the vast majority of cities stated that they evaluate positions case by case when they have a vacancy. City Administrator Ulrich stated that this item had also been referred to the Finance Committee to discuss whether there is a financial need to consider a hiring freeze. He stated that this is on the April 22, 2008 agenda for them to discuss the preliminary 2009 budget. Councilmember Dehen asked if City Administrator Ulrich was suggesting that this item be tabled until the finances are discussed. City Administrator Ulrich stated that he feels this issue warrants some discussion tonight, so if there is found to be a financial reason for a hiring freeze, some parameters could be put in place around the freeze. He stated that there are "hard" freezes and "soft" freezes. He stated that the City appears to already be in a "soft" freeze because there is not automatic filling of positions when they become vacant. Chairperson Jeffrey stated that, in his opinion, he is not interested in a "hard" freeze. He stated that he feels there should be a mechanism put in place that if a position is vacant, the City evaluates whether or not it should be filled. Human Resources Manager Reed Kone stated that this is basically what already happens and before the recruitment process begins, it is brought to the Council to discuss the merits of filling the position. Chairperson Jeffrey reiterated that he is not in favor of a hard freeze. He stated that he understands the State has entered into a hiring freeze, however, there are exemptions and noted that MnSCU is one of them. He stated that if the City couldn't replace a key position there would be trouble. Councilmember Dehen stated that he agrees with Chairperson Jeffrey and would not be in favor of a hard freeze either. He asked about the general theory surrounding hiring freezes. Personnel Committee / April 8, 2008 Page 2 of 4