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ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION - FEBRUARY 17, 2009 14 Park and Recreation Manager Olson apologized for not gathering the correct information for Council and explained why she felt the current pay ranges were acceptable and directly reflected on the quality of employees hired. Mayor Harpstead indicated it may be in the best interests of the City to seek a joint powers agreement with a neighboring City to ensure that qualified staff is hired for the Parks Department at a fair wage. It was the consensus of the City Council to direct staff to provide Council with information on the total amount of funds spent on temporary/seasonal help annually along with a spreadsheet showing the pay ranges of comparable cities and have this information brought back for future discussion. 2. COUNCIL COMMENTS AND REQUESTS City Administrator Moorse stated AHA TS was holding a sustainable green development workshop on March lOth_13th downtown 81. Paul. He indicated staff would not be attending the entire seminar but would have representation at the wrap up. Councilmember Grant stated he received the City of New Brighton's park and recreation information. He indicated it may benefit the City of Arden Hills to co- sponsor some events. Councilmember Grant explained that New Brighton also had a "Buy a Tree" program that should be looked into further as it was a unique idea. Councilmember Grant stated that in 2009 the Council approved full time programmer Sara Grant in the Park and Recreation Department. As part of the justification for moving to this full time position, the Parks & Recreation Manager would now have time to seek and apply for grants & scholarships. Councilmember Grant asked what progress was being made in this area. Park and Recreation Manager Olson explained that the programming position started full time in January. She indicated that she would continue to do research on grant opportunities.