CCP 09-25-2012 - Laserfiche WebLink

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City of 44)NEW H ON the city that works for you Council Worksession September 11, 2012 Present: Mayor Dave Jacobsen Councilmember Mary Burg Councilmember Paul Jacobsen Councilmember Char Samuelson Councilmember Gina Bauman Absent: None Staff in Attendance: City Manager Dean Lotter Assistant to the City Manager Schawn Johnson Finance Director Dan Maiers Public Works Director Grant Wyffels Community Development Director Grant Fernelius Parks and Recreation Director Sandy Breuer Director of Public Safety Bob Jacobson The meeting was called to order at 5:45 pm. (?) Health Care Discussion Mayor Jacobsen asked where the discussion was left off at the September 4th meeting. Councilmember Burg and Jacobsen stated that the issue was not discussed in any length at the September 4th meeting; as it was determined to wait until the full council was available. Councilmember Samuelson suggested eliminating health care insurance coverage for elected officials; noting if it is made available to city councilmembers, it should be made available to all permanent part-time employees. Mayor Jacobsen stated that he does not feel Councilmembers are equal with permanent part-time employees, also reporting that the cost is minimal for councilmember participation. Additionally the Mayor suggested there may be changes to healthcare following the upcoming national election; so he would prefer to hold off on any changes. Councilmember Jacobsen stated that he agrees with Councilmember Samuelson's recommendation; health care insurance should be offered to full-time employees. Mayor Jacobsen asked if the council was comfortable leaving the insurance policy as is. Councilmember Burg commented that it is too soon to know how councilmembers will be affected by the anticipated changes to health care; stating that she is still conflicted by the issue. Councilmember Burg commented that the cost of the insurance is included in the proposed 1.39% levy. Mayor Jacobsen commented that he is not in agreement with the 1.39% increase, and will likely motion for a 0% levy. Councilmember Bauman suggested the Mayor can make the 0% motion, and another can motion for the 1.39% levy. Councilmember Bauman suggested there are other ways to reduce the budget; including cancelling memberships in various municipal associations, as well as attending various seminars and conferences. Mayor Jacobsen asked Manager Lotter if removing the health insurance for the councilmembers from the budget would result in a 0% levy. Manager Lotter stated that it would not, noting that if any additional councilmembers chose to participate that would result in a deficit. 1