Minutes - Council Work Session - 11/26/2024

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There was consensus of the Council to move forward with the proposed changes to the conflict of interest section of the policy. Administrative Services Director Lasher shared that they have had previous discussions about allowing Staff members to get hotel rooms if they are traveling outside of the metro area for a job- related training or event for multiple days or if they are traveling and severe weather conditions do not allow them to travel. Councilmember Woestehoff stated that he would be in favor of removing the language around any county outside of the seven-county metro area and just sticking to the 40-mile distance as the distance seems more appropriate. Councilmember Riley asked if they should add something to this section around needing approval from a department head or City Administrator. Administrative Services Director Lasher said they could add language around approval. She noted that in the event someone was not able to get ahold of their department head or the City Administrator, they could still get the hotel room for themselves and seek reimbursement later. The consensus of the Council was to remove the language concerning the seven-county metro from this section and adding needing approval from a department head or the City Administrator. Administrative Services Director Lasher shared that IT Manager Frederickson made additions to the policy in regard to the cloud infrastructure as a definition. She noted that the cloud is also referenced throughout the policy as it applies. Councilmember Musgrove asked about the comments on policy for social networking on City equipment. Administrative Services Director Lasher shared that IT Manager Frederickson added these comments. She explained that this is already covered by the League of Minnesota Cities language provided. She said she can get further clarification on this to ensure that the change is put through on the final policy for approval. Councilmember Howell stated she does not support using City-owned equipment for personal uses on social media. She said she would like to see this be restricted in the policy. Councilmember Woestehoff said he would not want to limit someone from using their City equipment to check their personal bank account or something of a similar nature. He stated he understands the concerns around social media being accessed on City equipment; however, he would not want to ban the use of personal use altogether. Councilmember Specht noted that most people would be able to check things like their bank account on their cell phones. He said he sees both sides of this argument. City Council Work Session / November 26, 2024 Page 5 of 10