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ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL—MAY 28, 2024 4 <br /> individuals were let into the meeting via Zoom. He explained the Zoom links were controlled by <br /> the City Administrator. He stated the first speaker rambled about people in Washington and what <br /> positions they held. He noted when the speaker got inappropriate, the person was cut off as <br /> expeditiously as possible. He commented what some people may not know is that after the first <br /> speaker, he encouraged the City Administrator to be ready to cut the additional Zoom callers. He <br /> noted the first statement out of the next Zoom caller's mouth was completely inappropriate and he <br /> was cut off immediately. <br /> Mayor Grant reported at the last meeting he was told to do better when it comes to <br /> accomplishments. He explained he has been the Mayor of Arden Hills since 2010. He then <br /> highlighted some of his accomplishments over the past 14 years, including 33 major development <br /> projects and 7 new city programs. He indicated he had led the City through some difficult times, <br /> which included COVID and a housing crisis. He stated he was very proud of the fact the City had <br /> achieved a AAA bond rating in 2018, noting this was extremely difficult for a community of this <br /> size to achieve. He reported he understood there may be disharmony on the current Council, but <br /> he took issue with what was stated about him and his accomplishments as Mayor. <br /> 5. PUBLIC PRESENTATIONS <br /> A. 2023 Financial Statements <br /> Aaron Nielsen, MMKR, reviewed the 2023 financial statements with the Council. He reported <br /> the City received a clean or unmodified opinion. He reviewed the financial statements, fund <br /> balances and provided a summary of net position for the City in further detail. He commended the <br /> City for their strong financial position and stated he was available for comments or questions. <br /> City Administrator Perrault recognized Finance Director Yang for doing a wonderful job on <br /> the 2023 audit. <br /> Mayor Grant agreed and commended staff for receiving a clean opinion on this audit. <br /> Councilmember Holden stated the only way to eliminate the internal control issue would be to <br /> hire two more staff members. <br /> Mr. Nielsen reported this was the case. <br /> Councilmember Fabel asked if recommendations were made to the City regarding the limited <br /> segregation of duties. <br /> Mr. Nielsen indicated this would require the City to hire additional staff members in order to <br /> cross reference and cross train. He reported there were no instances of non-compliance for the <br /> City. He commented on how the City Administrator's background helped with the City's internal <br /> controls. <br /> Mayor Grant thanked Mr. Nielsen for this detailed presentation. <br /> 6. STAFF COMMENTS <br /> A. Transportation Update <br />