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Special City Council Strategic Planning Meeting Saturday, February 7, 2009 Page 20 Parks & Recreation Director Brokke asked that Councilmembers provide direction to staff to move forward with reductions or adjustments; but that the current situation in limbo not continue, based on upcoming seasonal issues and programming; and staff's intent to review everything for long-term impacts. Mr. Brokke opined that the City's Parks and Recreation Commission served as a voice in the community and represented citizens well. City Manager Malinen reiterated that this is an opportunity for the City Council to make a decision: whether they wished to use any reserves; or whether cost-saving measures should be spread to departments as indicated and prorated accordingly. Mayor Klausing spoke in support of a combination of the two options. Councilmember Roe concurred to a combination of the two options for the 2009 budget year. Councilmember Pust recognized the need that a decision was needed now; however, she noted that the City Council had just been introduced to a myriad of other concepts and possibilities, but that revenue producing options had not been provided. Councilmember Pust opined that, if it came down to it, and there were no other options, she would support the use of some reserves; however, if she could find another way to achieve that result without using any reserves, that would be her preference. Mayor Klausing concurred. Councilmember Ihlan noted the need for formal City Council action. Councilmember Roe noted that any action would require an amendment to the City budget; however, he opined that, regarding staffing decisions, the City Council would need to address them as they came forward; and that a small use of reserve funds maybe needed in those particular cases. Councilmember Roe opined that, while some decisions may be more time-sensitive, there may be others that could be postponed or delayed. However, Councilmember Roe noted that the City Council would need to come to a decision-making point and provide direction to staff based on the available options, reserves, and/or potential revenue sources. Councilmember Johnson spoke in support, on a one-year basis, for limited use of reserves, following additional discussion on specific and overall impacts. City Manager Malinen admitted that he had come to the City unaware of the volatility of both LGA and MVHS; and advised in the future, as the City restructured its budget process, he would recommend that it be utilized, when realized, as part of the City's capital outlay program, but not depended on for the structural budget.