Agenda - Council - 10/27/2026 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Councilmember Buscher asked whether Ramsey should move wages somewhat above the current average to avoid falling behind again. Administrative Services Director Lasher acknowledged that approach but explained that it would involve a different compensation strategy and additional spending. The preliminary budget already incorporated the recommended increases, and higher adjustments would require reconsidering other budgeted expenses or services. City Administrator Hagen observed that the smaller average market adjustment compared with the earlier 6.55% figure indicated that previous efforts had brought City wages closer to the comparison market. Councilmember Buscher asked about follow-up employee surveys and whether compensation concerns could be distinguished from other workplace considerations, including culture and amenities. City Administrator Hagen stated that another all -staff survey was planned for spring 2027, following earlier surveys, but it was not intended to focus exclusively on wages. The Council discussed the importance of retaining employees and ensuring that employees feel adequately compensated while recognizing that job satisfaction involves more than pay alone. City Administrator Hagen confirmed that the average 2.97% market adjustment and the 3% cost - of -living adjustment together represented roughly a 6% increase on average. The market adjustment was intended to reach the 2026 comparison level, while the cost -of -living adjustment was intended to help keep Ramsey near anticipated 2027 wages. The proposed amounts were already included in the preliminary budget. 3. TOPICS FOR FUTURE DISCUSSION 3.01: Review Future Topics/ Calendar City Administrator Hagen reviewed the remaining work session calendar and noted that the attached schedule differed from his current planning notes. For October 27, staff anticipated reviewing the capital improvement plan, proposed 2027 rates, fees, and charges, Charter Commission recruitment, and potential Public Works staffing adjustments following an announced retirement. Staff expected to outline how responsibilities might be reassigned. City Administrator Hagen proposed moving the quarterly Police and Fire updates from October 27 to the first November work session, together with final budget review and an update on Highway 10 code compliance. A ZIP code request identified in the City's strategic plan was expected to come forward November 24, with additional budget review if needed. The Anoka County Election Integrity Team (ACEIT) was tentatively scheduled for December 8 following its earlier Citizens Forum presentation. Staff reported that Anoka County representatives had declined to participate in the same session but offered to attend a separate work session. City Council Work Session / October 13, 2026 Page 6 of 7