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main things we should be concerned about. He stated he understands a desire on this Council to see things happen; however, he is a little callous. He suggested we are swimming upstream and the conditions have not gotten better in three years. He noted there will be a difference of opinion on this item so he suggested the Committee take no action on a recommendation for the Council. The case will go forward to the Council without a recommendation from the Personnel Committee. 5.03: Resolution to Replace the Vacant Fire Marshal Position Fire Chief Kapler stated this is a continuation of the October 15 discussion. He reviewed the staff report and recommendation to fill the vacancy left by Fire Marshal Matt Kohner. He explained staff is not asking to add staff, but to consider options for best meeting the City's public services needs. In addition, this vacant position serves as second in command and acts in a critical role focusing on activities such as code enforcement, public education, and the only back-up to the Fire Chief in the event of his absence. The position also serves as a tool for fire fighter safety by providing pre -plan information on the business structures within Ramsey. This position would be out visiting schools, daycares, safety camp, etc. Chief Kapler touched on the ISO rating and explained how the points were derived and responded to questions of percentages, insurance rates, etc. raised by Chairperson Tossey. City Administrator Ulrich arrived. Human Resources Manager Lasher stated, if approved, funding will come from the personnel services line item of the Fire Department budget. The 2014 funding for Mr. Kohner' s position as Fire Marshal was set at $102,988 (wages, taxes, benefits). It was noted that all figures have been adjusted by 2% over the 2013 data in order to account for a potential 2% COLA. Ms. Lasher presented the four options and stated staff's order of preference is: Deputy Fire Chief; Fire Marshal; Fire Inspector with reclassification to Fire Marshal by the end of 2014 and to back -fill duties left unaccounted for via outside sources; and, contracting an outside service. She noted that contracting an outside service is highly discouraged. Mayor Strommen (alternate) arrived. Chief Kapler stated he came to the last meeting recommending Option 1 and he heard from the group that he should look at other options. He believed options two and three will get the City the core essential services we need and will keep our community in check. The Deputy Chief position option is looking at the best interest of the City; and reiterated that Options one, two, and three will get residents the essentials. He added that contracting services will leave some big holes in the operation. Chairperson Tossey updated Mayor Strommen stating that the Personnel Committee agreed to take action on the first topic, but the full Council will hold discussion on all of these items and so the discussion was that the Committee would not take the action of recommendations on the Personnel Committee / November 12, 2013 Page 3 of 7