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ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL September 27, 2010 6 7.A. Planning Case 10 -010 for a Conditional Use Permit at 3900 Bethel Drive Based on the Findings of Fact and the Submitted Plans as Amended by the Six Conditions in the September 27, 2010, Report to the City Council (continued) Amended by the Six Conditions in the September 27, 2010, Report to the City Council. The motion carried unanimously (5 -0). B. Community Development Director Appointment City Administrator Patrick Klaers stated the City received 52 applications for the Community Development Director position. Staff reviewed the applications and selected four (4) candidates to be interviewed. The Finance Director, the Public Works Director and City Administrator conducted these interviews. After the interviews, it was determined that Jill Hutmacher was the unanimous choice to be the City's next Community Development Director. A background check is being completed by Midwest Government Advisors. Prior to the Council meeting tonight, each Councilmember had an opportunity to meet individually with Ms. Hutmacher. MOTION: Mayor Harpstead moved and Councilmember Holden seconded a motion to Approve the Hiring of Jill Hutmacher as the Arden Hills Community Development Director at Grade 11, Step 7 ($88,219) of the City's Compensation Program and That the Employment Proposal include the Severance Pay condition as outlined in the September 16, 2010 memo. Councilmember McClung stated in the past he has voted in favor of offering severance packages for the City Administrator and this is a decision he has come to regret. He stated he believes in pay for performance and would rather pay Ms. Hutmacher a higher wage than offer a severance package. He stated he does not believe severance packages are appropriate for public positions and the proposed package is too generous. Ms. Hutmacher is an outstanding candidate and he looks forward to working with her but he cannot support offering a severance package for this position. Councilmember Holmes stated the severance was discussed at the last City Council work session. She stated she spoke to the Public Works Director and the Finance Director regarding the severance package being offered to Ms. Hutmacher and they were comfortable with the City's decision. Ms. Hutmacher is the best candidate for the position and offering a severance package will ensure her accepting the position. Councilmember Holden stated she agreed with Councilmember Holmes. She pointed out that starting Ms. Hutmacher at the top of the pay grade would put additional financial burdens on the City versus the potential for paying a severance package. Staff agrees that Ms. Hutmacher is the best candidate and if Ms. Hutmacher wants to have a future with Arden Hills, she will support offering a severance package. Councilmember Grant stated if the Council fixated on just the severance package this would be short sighted. Ms. Hutmacher brings several skills and assets to the City. He is confident that Ms. Hutmacher will perform well for the City and be a great asset. The Council should focus on what Ms. Hutmacher brings to the City and what the City needs rather than on a severance package that may never be needed.