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i Y ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION—MARCH 15, 2010 4 ].A 2010 Engineering Work Plan Councilmember McClung felt it would benefit the City to bring the engineering work in-house to reduce the funds allotted to engineering expenses. The joint powers agreement would still be used to assist in the technical capacity needed for future projects. He reviewed the current Public Works Director language with the Council. Mayor Harpstead questioned if the Public Works Department had the capacity to take on additional engineering work. Public Works Director Hoag stated there would need to be a middle level management position, - whether a superintendent or foreman. He recommended that the engineering capacity be brought on as a management superintendent level versus the management foreman level. Mayor Harpstead questioned the I&I progress in the City. He stated it would be difficult for the City to resolve this issue without proper guidelines from Met Council. City Engineer Bloom stated the City has completed manhole and sump pump inspections. One of the largest issues is that there has not been a storm large enough to show increased flow. The City has made progress in the sewer lining as well. She indicated the Roseville Public Works Director was working with Met Council on the guidelines. Councilmember Holden suggested the City send another letter to Met Council requesting a response on the issue. Mayor Harpstead questioned how the Council would like to proceed with the engineering capacity issues. Councilmember Holden felt it would be in the City's best interests to expand the joint powers agreement. This would offer the City be highest level of qualified engineers without having to worry about laying off personnel in several years if the workload were to decline. Councilmember McClung indicated another option would be for the City to send out an RFP to complete all engineering services for the City of Arden Hills. Mayor Harpstead stated he has heard complaints on how several projects were managed by outside consultants for the City. Councilmember Grant suggested the Council choose a route to take before reviewing each engineering item in detail and proposing potential shifts. He indicated the City could choose to hire a City Engineer or begin shifting engineering projects to 2011. Councilmember Holden questioned if a full-time engineer would want to move to the City. City Engineer Bloom stated an engineer would come to the City but it would cost over $90,000 plus benefits. Arden Hills may have a difficult time holding onto an engineer long term as there was not room for promotion.