CCP 05-29-2001 - Laserfiche WebLink

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ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL— APRIL 30, 2001 13 F. City Staff Reorganization Mr. Lynch explained this was a follow up to a presentation at the workshop. He stated he made an assessment of a four leg stool and a three leg stool. He noted the difference would be the Community Developer Director position versus new titles. He reviewed the recommendations in his memo. Councilmember Aplikowski asked if they are looking at hiring somebody other than that for the treasurer position or a non-development type person. Mr. Lynch responded they would fill the city accountant and treasurer function with another position. He stated they would not look for a Community Development Director as part of the services provided by the additional staff person. He noted the emphasis would be on community development. Councilmember Rem stated this made her think of looking at this as a hiring of support staff persons since more discussion is needed on a three-legged versus four-legged approach. She noted staff could do the second part of the recommendation. She added that, since this step takes a fair amount of time, they would fit it into the work plan for the year. Mayor Probst stated if staff knows where they should be going they might as well get there. Councilmember Aplikowski stated that two weeks ago she would have said she is not happy with a three-leg stool alternative. She noted she could live with it if there is more outsourcing of work at least for the next season until everything comes into place. She added it would be with the understanding that this is an open posting with the current in-house staff. Councilmember Larson concurred. Councilmember Grant stated he is in favor of a four-legged stool. He noted he thinks it is more of a walk before run approach. He added he would like to feel more comfortable as current positions are combined for the Director of Maintenance and Operations new position. He stated he is not convinced it is a one-person job. Councilmember Rem stated she personally feels more comfortable with a four-legged stool. She noted she has concerns on how everything would work together. Mayor Probst stated he is in support of the three-legged option. He noted he frankly feels it is time for them to move on and get staffed up and going. He added they directed the City Administrator to tell them how he wanted to organize his staff. He stated they had open slots that have remained open. He noted he does not know if more time would change any opinions. He added he is prepared to support the staff recommendation. Councilmember Aplikowski stated she is hesitant to do this, but watching staff over the last few weeks has made her feel more comfortable. She noted the only measure of the operation is the current staff that has stepped up to plate and done a wonderful job.