Agenda - Council Work Session - 10/03/2006

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Department Forecasts 22 In the focus group of City Administrators who had managed fast growth, high quality cities in the metro area, all agreed that it was critical for the City to maintain a clean and attractive appearance. That job falls primarily on the public works department. The City's investment in its infrastructure will influence private investment in private property. A common belief in local government circles that well maintained streets with curb and gutter construction are the greatest influence on housing upkeep and neighborhood appearance. As the City proceeds with the Town Center development as a high quality identity for Ramsey, equal attention should be given to the long-term attractiveness of its street system and neighborhoods. Ramsey Council members frequently commented on the importance of open space and environment in the community. As the population grows the City can expect to experience an increase in requests for recreational space, trail systems and environmental protection. There likely will be a tension between development interests and environmental interests in the community. Resident requests for increased recreational land, year round maintenance of trail systems, holding pond maintenance and the creation of "conservation" land may all impact the character and resources of the public works department. Issues that arose during the course of this study concerning the management structure of the department have already been addressed. Springsted recommended, and the City has concluded, the public works and fire department leadership functions should be separated. Finally, it is worth noting that individual public works employees are often the City's most frequently called upon ambassadors. Their contact with the public is frequent and varied. Citizen perceptions of the quality and efficiency of a local government are often shaped by this contact. For the Ramsey council to maintain a high quality customer service philosophy, the training, quality and organizational knowledge of the public works employees is critical. I IBeeinnine Personnel - F.T.E. 1 6.50 1 5.25 1 10.50 1 12.50 1 13.00 1 13.00 1 Projected Population 1 24,680 1 33,880 1 41,330 1 48,780 49,387 1 49,997 Total Dept. Ratio I F.T.E./1,000 population 1 0.263 1 0.266 1 0.266 1 0.261 0.263 1 0.265 Beginning Personnel- F.T.E. 1 1.001 1.001 1.50 1 1.75 1 2.00 2.00 Ailmin.'Snpport =' ` :. . EndingiT.E, +. 1.00'1:25 1:75: '' 2,00 2100 . 2,00. City of Ramsey — Organization Study and Review