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Regular City Council Meeting Monday,August 20,2012 Page 13 commercial community with the exception of the Mall of America and their sepa- rate taxing district authority, providing for 5-6 officers plus a sergeant. Public Works/Engineering Public Works Director Duane Schwartz addressed challenges in maintaining vegetation in transportation corridors and rights-of-way; with the PWETC currently working on a Complete Streets Policy for recommendation to the City Council later this year. Mr. Schwartz advised that his department and the Finance Department would continue to review the potential for a tiered utility rate structure. Mr. Schwartz reviewed other goals and objectives, as well as regional transportation ef- forts; and their specific Action Steps. Mr. Schwartz highlighted the intended restructuring of the department from a man- agement standpoint for better planning and checks/balances through moving line staff to larger roles; which would also address succession planning and retention of institutional knowledge moving forward, given several upcoming retirements of long-term employees in the department. Councilmember Johnson noted that, when the City Council met jointly with the PWETC, one member alluded to funding not at proper levels for the department; and whether this was due to the CIP Task Force recommendations or other pro- grams the PWETC thought needed to be a priority. Mr. Schwartz advised that his interpretation of that comment was that the PWETC recognized the need for implementation of infrastructure funding to remain success- ful long-term; and related maintenance of that infrastructure. Mr. Schwartz opined that he found their comment to be consistent with the direction the department and City was now moving. Councilmember McGehee noted the addition of benches along pathways at strategic spots; with Councilmember Johnson noting that this was part of a Ramsey County Program. Councilmember Johnson noted that their intent was for the elderly and those less mobile to be able to see their next destination. Mr. Schwartz concurred, noting that Ramsey County had installed a number of benches, most recently for the Fairview Pathway Project. Councilmember McGehee commended the installation of the benches, opining that they served to support the senior citizen needs of the community. Councilmember McGehee sought assurances that any Asset Management Program was applicable for the City's website and software programs. Councilmember McGehee mentioned a small engine repair program offered by schools as part of their trade track; and suggested the City consider a partnership