CCP 09-25-2012 - Laserfiche WebLink

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City Manager Lotter commented on an updated memo that he had distributed regarding compensation. Details related to comparable cities was reviewed. Mr. Lotter reported that 2% COLA and Step increases are included in the proposed 2013 budget. City Manager Lotter explained that the council could choose to remove the Community Survey, and/or a Park Maintenance Position from the budget in order to achieve a 0% levy. Councilmember Burg commented that if a Park Maintenance Position is removed; additional expenses would be incurred through contracting services. Director Breuer reported that the single bid received for mowing/trimming all parks would be approximately $76,000 for seven months. Snow plowing the Community Center lot and Neighborhood Center lots would be estimated at$10,700. Councilmember Burg suggested that the Parks Department may require an employee available for more than just mowing. The idea of seasonal employees was suggested. Director Breuer explained that there are complexities associated with the Union regarding seasonal employees. Councilmember Burg suggested staff continue to look at specific needs that may be contracted, in lieu of adding another full time employee. Councilmember Jacobsen stated that he hopes to keep the levy as flat as possible. City Manager Lotter explained that once the Council sets the preliminary levy it cannot be increased, suggesting the Council attempt to certify the levy as close as possible to their intended levy. City Manager Lotter reported that if the Council wants to achieve a 0% levy; they could remove the Community Survey and the Parks Maintenance position from the budget. Councilmember Bauman commented that if a survey is to be completed, she would prefer the Council determine the questions. Councilmember Burg asked if the survey could be completed in 2012. City Manager Lotter stated that could likely occur in 2012; with the anticipated surplus. Councilmember Bauman reported that she feels that the employees of the City are not underpaid, and is not concerned with what other cities are paying their employees; suggesting City salaries should be compared with the household salaries of the residents in the City. Councilmember Bauman stated that to ask a family of four; making on average $55,000 annually, to bear a tax increase, including pay increases for employees is offensive. Councilmember Bauman stated that she has requested a listing of each positions salary; and has not received the equivalent of what she's looking for. Manager Lotter stated that list has been created and he can send that information out to the council. Councilmember Burg suggested the Council come to a consensus on the preliminary levy. Councilmember Samuelson suggested a preliminary levy of 2%would allow the opportunity to work at decreasing it in the coming months. Councilmember Jacobsen, Burg, and Samuelson suggested approving the 1.39%recommended by the City Manger. Councilmember Bauman suggested 0%. Councilmember Jacobsen requested the survey be completed in 2012; allowing an opportunity for the 1.39% to be decreased. Councilmember Burg recommended that City Staff review the survey proposals received, and make a decision on the company best able to meet the City's needs. Councilmember Jacobsen suggested keeping the price below $16,000. City Manager Lotter suggested the council email him any questions related to PERA. City Manager Lotter discussed the possibility of having a third party review the City's Fees and Charges for Services; as changes may not be beneficial. Councilmember Samuelson asked if part of the 2012 surplus could be used for various contractual expenses. Manager Lotter replied that could be done, at least in 2013. The worksession adjourned at 6:54 pm. 2