Agenda - Council - 06/26/2007 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Human Resources Manager Reed Kone indicated staff is proposing that the City Council grant four hours of paid leave to full -time employees who use four hours of accrued leave to participate in this project. With City Council approval, this offer would be extended to a maximum of 15 employees on a first come, first serve basis. Paid leave granted to part-time employees would be prorated based on the employees' regular work schedule. Ms. Reed Kone advised if approved, this project would consist of the City granting approximately 60 hours of paid leave for the Habitat for Humanity project. There would be no additional cost beyond what has been budgeted for 2007 salaries. Councilmember Olson clarified with Ms. Reed Kone that there is currently not a policy in place. She suggested this be extended to a permanent policy for projects the City would like to work with. Human Resources Manager. Reed Kone indicated the policy could be utilized for projects the Council deems appropriate. It should be noted Twin Cities Habitat for Humanity will be working in Ramsey for three years. HRA Executive Director Frolik explained this northwest coalition would serve the northwest Anoka County area. Councilmember Olson suggested an annual event where Ramsey employees can volunteer with certain projects. Human Resources Manager Reed Kone suggested a policy where Council could authorize a certain number of employees on a matching basis per year, where the employees would volunteer in a project they choose. Councilmember Dehen stated he does not like this policy because the City would be directing taxpayer resources to particular causes. It is a noble cause, but it is not good policy. They are not a corporation; they are responsible to the people. The employees are hired to be here for a reason, and he does not agree with farming them out for private causes. Councilmember Olson stated she does not view this differently than when the City waives a fee for a charitable organization or contributes money to an organization. It is all City funds and it all falls in the same charitable basket. As far as time is concerned it is incumbent upon staff and department heads to tell the Council how much time they can afford. Human Resources Manager Reed Kone stated from the Human Resources standpoint this is an investment in staff. This gives them the opportunity to build skills and get out in the community they serve. She understands Councilmember Dehen's concerns, but thinks there is some value in this type of project. She also believes they need to put parameters around it. They cannot have staff out every day of the week volunteering, but when there is a huge project like this and the community is rallying together it is good for staff to be part of that. It gives staff variety and working for someone in the community that the Council supports. Personnel Committee / May 8, 2007 _32_ Page 4 of 6