Agenda - Council Work Session - 10/03/2006

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In addition to reviewing the previously mentioned Target Group, a group of similarly sized high-growth Cities were also examined. This group (referred to as the "Peer Group"), consists of the following cities: • Andover, 30,000 • Shakopee, 29,000 • Savage, 24,850 • Chanhassen, 23,652 • Chaska, 22,500 • Rosemount, 20,900 The intent of comparing Ramsey to these similar high-growth cities was to look for staffing and service level trends particular to communities in the early stages of high-growth, trends which may not be apparent in the more fully - developed Target Group. The trend most readily apparent in the comparison between the peer group and the Target Group is the higher level of staffing in the areas directly affected by the rate of growth occurring in each of these cities. The areas of planning, building inspection, and engineering are the areas where the Peer Group and Ramsey had higher staffing levels then the Target Group. The staffing levels in these departments are a direct reflection of the growth that is occurring, and are affected prior to an actual rise in population. Comparison to Target Group When comparing Ramsey to its selected Target Group, one trend was readily apparent: in those areas where Ramsey presently has services and programs in place, its staffing levels are on par with the Target Group. In relation to employees per 1,000 population, Ramsey's current staffing levels are appropriate and in line with providing the high service level it desires. The City will need to add staff in other areas as discussed below; however, in the areas where it currently has programs, maintaining the current ratio of employees per 1,000 population as it grows should enable the City to continue to provide high service levels. The spreadsheets accompanying this report illustrate the personnel growth necessary to maintain the current staffing and service levels, which, as previously noted, are adequate to provide high quality service. Additionally, the spreadsheets illustrate the necessary growth of departmental budgets resulting from staff growth. The spreadsheets reflect the addition of staff in relation to population growth to maintain the ratio of employees per 1,000 population currently present within the City. Ramsey has established a solid foundation for providing high service levels. The key will be to maintain these service levels and employee ratios as the City grows, while adding additional programs and departments as deemed necessary. City of Ramsey — Organization Study and Review