CC 02-08-1999 - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

. . . ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - FEBRUARY 8,1999 12 The intent is for a continuation of the discussions from previous years regarding an understanding of the process for day-to-day projects, the organizational structure, and who the City is and what the City is about. Mayor Probst stated that, although he would support a one-day retreat, ifthere would not be enough time to accomplish what needs to be done, it may make sense to continue into the evening or schedule another time to continue the discussions. He stated that is important that, by the end of the day, the City have produced an action list as it relates to the committees. He indicated that there is an unprecedented number of people expressing interest in participating in some of the committees. He would be concerned if the retreat did not result in some sort of game plan. He would prefer for the City to deal with these issues at a specific level by the end of the day and, ifnot, there may be another block of time needed to accomplish this. Councilmember Aplikowski asked if the one-day program would be designed for both the City Staff and the City Council. Mr. Fritsinger stated that it would be. Councilmember Aplikowski agreed that there needs to be a conclusion regarding the committee issues, even if it requires additional retreat time. Councilmember Malone suggested that the retreat could be accomplished in one day providing the objectives are focused on. He noted that the intent for the retreat is to be a highlight of the issues, not specific details. If the first issue is to set objectives, these objectives should be limited and should include the discussion of committees. He wondered if some of the other proposed objectives require a great deal of attention, One key issue would be regarding the City Staff structure. He noted that much of the City structure is defined by statute. He expressed his concern of not having too many issues on the agenda. He reiterated that the retreat could be accomplished if it is limited to just a couple of issues. Councilmember Aplikowski stated that, in addition to reviewing the City Staff and structure, the mission statement should be reviewed to ensure the City is still on track with its goals. Councilmember Rem suggested that if the goal were to finish by the end of one day, the discussions need to stay on track and someone would need to keep and eye on the clock and ensure that the discussions are moving in the proper direction. Councilmember Malone asked ifthe hotel would be cheaper on Saturday compared to Friday. Mr. Fritsinger stated that it may not be. Councilmember Malone stated that he had considered the idea of moving the entire retreat to Saturday. Mr. Fritsinger stated that he could look into the rates, however it was his belief that if the entire retreat was held on Saturday the rates would be the same. The half day on Saturday would be cheaper as there would be no lunch or dinner provided. Mr. Fritsinger stated that the City had received information regarding the liability and workers compensation insurance. He stated that Staff had discussed the idea of setting up a special fund for the annual dividends. This would allow for any long-term insurance needs the City may have.