Minutes - Council - 07/25/2023 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Administrative Services Director Lasher reviewed the Staff report in regard to considering the hiring of a Recreational Coordinator. She noted that they interviewed 12 applicants for the position, including former City of Ramsey employee Abigail Proulx, who was also the top candidate. Parks and Assistant Public Works Director Riverblood reviewed the responsibility for this role. He discussed the value of hiring a former employee who is familiar with the City and its programming. He noted that if they delay this decision Ms. Proulx may accept other offers. Councilmember Musgrove, as the Parks and Recreation liaison from the Council, she shared that she has seen Ms. Proulx’s work during her time. She asked about her qualifications and asked about her job duties working with the city of Duluth that would make her the top candidate for the role. Parks and Assistant Public Works Director Riverblood explained that it is not just due to her experiences in Duluth. He noted that she has 10 years experience as well as a masters degree. He added that success follows her everywhere she goes. Councilmember Musgrove asked about some of her successes in Duluth. Parks and Assistant Public Works Director Riverblood stated that he did not bring her resume and cover letter, which were both rather impressive. He shared that she has had lots of supervisory experience in her position in Duluth, which is what the City is looking for. Administrative Services Director Lasher stated that she did have Ms. Proulx’s application materials. She provided a summary of her education, experience, and accomplishments. Acting Mayor Riley shared that this role was discussed at an earlier work session due to the constant turnaround in the role due to schedule and pay. He noted that this is an effort of making this role more of a career position to attract an applicant who will stay. Councilmember Howell asked if the idea of bringing on this position is to increase the programming that the City currently offers. Parks and Assistant Public Works Director Riverblood said yes and shared that Ms. Proulx’s passion is outdoor education which is part of the City’s Strategic Plan. Councilmember Specht asked about the increase in wages from the previous role. Administrative Services Director Lasher stated that she does not have the numbers in front of her; however, she quoted in the work session that it would be around a 22% increase. She added that she reached out to Elk River and looked at their organizational structure and Ramsey only having one Rectarion employee is lower than Elk River’s staffing. She added that this position is supervisory and Ms. Proulx would be supervising the administrative assistant that oversees all of the Parks scheduling. City Council / July 25, 2023 Page 5 of 8