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City Council Regular Meeting - 12/19/05 DRAFT Minutes - Page 17 filling the vacant Economic Development Director position, including not hiring new staff or outside consultants, until the City Council reviews the position and determines whether to continue it. Councilmember Kough spoke in support of the motion. Councilmember Ihlan spoke in support of the motion; hoping that the City Council could perform their review in January of2006. Community Development Director Dennis Welsch advised that the position pays for itself; and that the 2006 budget did not include funds for a full-time Economic Development position; but that with Ms. Bennett's projected vacancy, the department was going to seek hiring of an Economic Development Associate. Mr. Welsch noted that, depending on the applicant pool, would make recommendation to the City Council accordingly. Mr. Welsch further noted the numerous tasks handled by the Economic Developer over the last 3-4 years; substantial grant applications; grant fund management and reporting; business community liaison; Metropolitan Council liaison; Comprehensive Plan updating; and upcoming projects, including environmental grant applications anticipated. City Manager Beets reviewed his memorandum dated December 15, 2005 related to the position and scope of responsibilities. Mr. Beets advised that, in appreciation for the budget situation, it was staff s intent to attempt to under fill the position if possible, similar to that of the recent vacancy in the GIS position. Councilmember Ihlan reiterated her intent to review any vacant positions prior to advertising. Mayor Klausing spoke against the motion, questioning the role of the City Council in the day-to-day operations of the City in their part-time elected official capacity. Councilmember Schroeder opined that it was the City