09-16-19-WS - Laserfiche WebLink

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ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION — September 16, 2019 7 Councilmember McClung asked if staff could provide the actual number of miles of streets in Arden Hills. E. Public Works Director Discussion City Administrator Perrault stated the City has a vacancy for Public Works Director/City Engineer, currently being filled by an interim director (Todd Blomstrom) from SEH. The Council's intent was to hire SEH for at least six months to evaluate how to move forward with the position. Staff discussed if the position should be split but felt it wasn't necessary. There are options to consider; 1) re -post for the position 2) continue with a consultant or 3) split the role. Another option would be to enter into a longer -term contract with SEH and leave Mr. Blomstrom in the position. Interim Public Works Director/City Engineer Blomstrom explained his work hours and availability. Also, the current Senior Engineering Technician could be groomed into the role of Public Works Director. After discussion, Council decided to continue the contract with SEH for an additional year (through January 2021), with further options to be discussed at a work session in July. Project bids will be considered from SEH and other vendors. Council agreed to continue the meeting past 8:00 p.m. F. Public Works Admin Office Support Discussion City Administrator Perrault explained there is a need for administrative assistance in the Public Works Department, the position would be similar in grade to the office support positions at City Hall. Some items the assistant could help with include receiving and responding to requests for service, implementing a work order system, coordinating material orders and inventory, monitoring the training and safety program, MS4 permits, informational mailings, and documenting work load statuses. This position would not have a negative impact on the budget. Interim Public Works Director/City Engineer Blomstrom felt about half of the calls that are received by the Public Works Director and Superintendent could be handled by this position. He highly recommends getting a work order system implemented among other things. He felt even a half time person would be a huge improvement. After discussion, staff was directed to post for the position. G. Old Snelling at Lindey's Triangle Councilmember Holden asked if the roundabout has to be built at that location. Interim Public Works Director/City Engineer Blomstrom said the County is paying for a considerable amount of the project, and the intersection doesn't meet warrants for a signal light.