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. . . ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - July 10, 2000 7 Mr. Lynch stated, in addition, that a discussion was also held by the Fire Board about the status of the full-time Chief process. Fire Chief Schreier updated the Fire Board on the decision by the LJVFD to proceed with a Phase I and Phase II process, with the Brimeyer Group. Mr. Lynch stated that the Fire Board recommends that the Council approve and authorize the LJVFD to move ahead with Phase I and Phase II with the Brimeyer Group, at a cost not to exceed $4,000 plus expenses for Phase I, which is the data gathering phase; and not to exceed $2,000 plus expenses for Phase II, which is development and assessment of options for organizational structure. Mayor Probst stated he would be interested to hear Councilmember Larson's comments on the subject. He expressed concern that an endorsement of this plan must not be construed as an endorsement from the City to move ahead witIl hiring a full-time chief. Mr. Lynch agreed. Mayor Probst asked what action is being taken by the other citics. Mr. Lynch stated he is unsure. Councilmember Grant asked why this issue was being raised at this time. Mr. Lynch stated the Fire Board met recently, and these recommendations were made at their meeting. He added that the currcnt chief is not interested in a full-time chief position, and current staff may not meet thc necessary requirements. Mayor Probst reiterated his concern that if the Council takes an action, it should be made clear that it is not an endorsement for a full-time chief position. Councilmember Rem stated the study would give an indication of how to ensure better reporting and more centralized control within the Fire Department. She added it makes sense to explore the options. Councilmember Grant asked whether a feasibility study was done in the past. Mayor Probst stated the cities have been unwilling to providing budgetary funding in the past, and an overt analysis was never completed. Councilmember Aplikowski stated that a task force met approximately 3 years ago and reviewed other options. She added ilie minutes would be available for review. She added, in her opinion, the Fire Board's requests are reasonable. MOTION: Councihnember Aplikowski moved and Councilmember Rem seconded a motion to approve authorization for Lakc Johanna Volunteer Fire Department (LJVFD) to move ahead with Phase I and Phase II with the Brimeyer Group, at a cost not to exceed $4,000 plus expenses for Phase I, and not to exceed $2,000 plus expenses for Phase II. The motion carried unanimously (4-0).