Laserfiche WebLink
CC Work Session <br />Meeting Date: <br />01/13/2026 <br />Primary Strategic Plan Initiative: Strive for high organizational morale and employee retention. <br />Information <br />Title: <br />Discuss the City Engineer Recruitment <br />2. 3. <br />Purpose/Background: <br />As the City Council is aware, Engineering and Public Works currently operate under the direction of one <br />department head, Mr. Bruce Westby, City Engineer/Public Works Director. The plan for this structure was <br />established years ago as part of the planned departure of the former Public Works Superintendent. Splittng the <br />current combined role was planned and budgeted, with the expected split to occur in late 2025 or early 2026, <br />upon the onboarding of a new City Engineer. <br />City staff conducted two separate external recruitments, resulting in just one candidate interviewing with the city's <br />management team. That candidate was not recommended for advancement. Aside from this one interview, there <br />were four other applicants, one of which was not selected for an interview and three did not meet the minimum <br />requirements of the position. Staff have met internally and with others about the situation. Essentially, the City <br />of Ramsey is experiencing the same difficulties that others have experienced. <br />It should be noted that the wages offered for this position are set at the average when compared to similarly sized <br />cities in the metropolitan area. The minimum qualifications for the position were posted based on common <br />practices in other cities. However, there may be room to adjust some of the minimum qualifications without <br />compromising the caliber of the applicant pool. <br />Staff will provide additional detail during the work session regarding the very tight labor market, how other cities <br />have dealt with City Engineer recruitments, etc. Staff will be seeking feedback from the City Council on options <br />for moving forward. <br />Time Frame/Observations/Alternatives: <br />Up to 10 minutes. <br />Funding Source: <br />Not applicable. <br />Recommendation: <br />Outcome/Action: <br />Based on discussion. <br />No file(s) attached. <br />Attachments <br />Form Review <br />Inbox Reviewed By Date <br />Brian Hagen Brian Hagen 01/08/2026 03:21 PM <br />