Minutes - Council Work Session - 04/14/2026

Home

Councilmember Buscher noted that the fire service model item likely captures the transition and leadership changes within the fire department, suggesting it reflects ongoing work rather than something fully “working well.” City Administrator Hagen explained that items removed from the strategic plan were completed or no longer major concerns, such as process changes, reduced complaints about road conditions, and the planned elimination of gravel roads. He noted staff have also shifted workloads across departments as needed. He added that a new concern has been identified regarding long-term road funding, explaining that while current projections are stable, future needs may exceed available funding since the capital improvement plan is based on budget capacity rather than all identified project needs. Acting Mayor Riley asked for confirmation that there are still about two years of bond funding available, noting that while short-term funding appears stable, he shares the concern about longer- term needs. City Administrator Hagen noted that while funding is stable in the short term, there is a projected drop from higher annual investments to lower levels, which could result in needed road projects being deferred. He added that there are no major changes proposed overall, with some completed items removed, modest progress made on employee wellness efforts, and a new item added to consider a potential recycling and compost facility as interest in that area grows. Councilmember Stewart asked whether the new technology the City has purchased should be reflected as something still needing implementation, noting it may represent an area where the City is not yet fully utilizing available tools and should continue researching and applying what makes sense. City Administrator Hagen noted the City already uses a range of technology. However, there is still room to expand its use, highlighting GIS tools as an example where the City has the capability but has not yet fully utilized their potential. Councilmember Stewart asked what the staff’s plan and goals are for fully utilizing existing technology tools, and what steps would be needed to move this item off the list once progress is made. City Administrator Hagen explained that the expansion of the use of technology like GIS will be evaluated during the budget process by weighing costs and benefits. He noted that the City currently relies on LOGIS for system support with limited monthly hours, and while staff can make edits, they lack the capacity to develop it in-house fully. He said staff will assess whether increasing investment, either through LOGIS or internal staffing, would provide enough added value to justify the cost. Councilmember Specht expressed openness to exploring a recycling and compost facility but noted he would like more information, including costs and details, before including it in the strategic plan. City Council Work Session / April 14, 2026 Page 2 of 10