CCP 09-14-1987 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Minutes of Special Finance Committee Meeting, September 10, 1987 Page 3 Committee requested Morrison to prepare a task inventory for the proposed . additional person, a survey of surrounding similar-sized communities' staff sizeJ and a list of goals she expects to achieve in the coming year if the Council agrees to hire a Chief Financial Officer. Committee would like to see total costs of the additional employee. Office space consideration and support staff needed should also be explored. Committee also requested that the net difference in cost as compared to alternate proposals be furnished. Account No. 120 (PERA/FICA) is increased to cover costs of additional employee, and expected interest in FICA. Account No. 130 (Employer Paid Health Insurance) is increased to cover costs of additional employee, and expected 15% increase in costs of health insurance (as result of 1988 union negotiations). Erickson questioned the psychology of incorporating possible increases in these costs in the budget; felt it more likely the increase would be granted if it were already budgeted than if it would result in budget deficit. Account No. 207 (Travel, Conference, Schools). Committee questioned increase in this account from 1985 ($578) to 1988 ($2425). Morrison stated this covers City membership in the League of Minnesota Cities, ICHA, Municipal Clerks and Finance Officers Association, travel and expenses for the Clerk Administrators' attendance at ICHA conference and possible League conference, the Deputy Clerk at Clerk's Conference - activities not pursued by the former Clerk and Deputy Clerk. . Account No, 360 (Bonds and Insurance). Committee questioned continued increase in costs in bonds and insurance; felt insurance rates should be levelling out. The City, with the advice of Bill Hite, Insurance Agent of Record for the City, began insuring with the League of Minnesota Cities Insurance Trust when insurance rates skyrocketed, and insurance from private vendors became difficult for cities to obtain. At that time, the League's rates were substantially lower than private insurance firm rates. Since then, the rates have gradually increased, although they are still somewhat lower than other firms. Private vendors again appear to be interested in bidding on City insurance contracts, but Mr. Hite advises continuing to insure with the League. Account No. 570 (Office Furniture and Equipment). $3,900 is budgeted for equipment for the proposed additional employee. p. 18 Legal Account No. 304 (Legal Fees). The budget anticipates an 8% increase in Attorney Lynden's charges. The Attorney advises the Council on legal matters, attends Council meetings when necessary, prepares Ordinances and legal opinions. Erickson again questioned the philosophy of incorporating possible increases in fees in the budget. p. 20 Planning Account No. 312 (Planning Consultant). A decrease in this account is anticipated as the City becomes more fully developed. . p, 22 General Government Buildings Account No. 223 includes an addition of $5,000 to bring the City-owned buildings and grounds up to OSHA standards, as recommended by retired OSHA inspector Donald Zehm.