Minutes - Council Work Session - 09/24/2024

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Police Chief Katers reviewed the Staff report and shared his upcoming retirement, with a last day of service as November 18, 2024. City Administrator Hagen reviewed the suggested recruitment timeline to fill the Police Chief position. Councilmember Woestehoff shared that he would fully support internal recruitment to fill this position as Police Chief Katers leads a great team and there are qualified individuals currently in the department. Councilmember Specht agreed. Councilmember Riley noted the Police Department is in good shape and there are multiple candidates who would be qualified to fill this role. City Administrator Hagen asked if the Council would like to be a part of the interview panel for these candidates. Mayor Kuzma said yes. Councilmember Woestehoff said he would also like to be a part of the panel. Councilmember Musgrove stated she would like to be on the panel as well. Councilmember Riley said he can serve on the panel if needed. Councilmember Olson stated he can also serve on the panel. Administrative Services Director Lasher explained that they conducted a survey with the Fire Chief recruitment where they polled management, firefighters, and the Council on what they were looking for in the next Fire Chief. She asked if they would like to do this again for the new Police Chief. Councilmember Musgrove stated she would like there to be a survey with Council included. Councilmember Woestehoff said he supports having a survey but does not think Council needs to be included on it as he believes that Staff can make the best decision. City Administrator Hagen asked if they want to invite an outside Police Chief to come give feedback from a technical duty standpoint. Mayor Kuzma said this was helpful for the Fire Chief recruitment process. Councilmember Musgrove asked what this role included. City Council Work Session / September 24, 2024 Page 11 of 13