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City Council Regular Meeting — O1/31/05 DRAFT Minutes - Page 21 Police Chief Carol Sletner advised Councilmembers that the 2005 Adopted Budget including funding for both Police Officer positions; and there were currently two offers on the table for those two positions. Ms. Sletner noted that any potential increases in the cost of living adjustment (COLA) due to arbitration would be accounted for through vacancies within the department, maintaining the budget as presented prior to adoption. Chief Sletner strongly urged Councilmembers not to consider such a freeze, opining it would not serve the best interests of the public or other officers related to safety concerns. Discussion included the contract negotiation process practiced by administration staff; Council actions related to the 2005 Budget as adopted and COLA reductions; merits of a hiring freeze; impacts on service levels and response times of the Police Department; increased overtime costs; and the length of hiring process and testing for potential officers. City Attorney Anderson responded from a legal standpoint, questioning how not filling positions would provide additional leverage with an arbitrator; and again cautioning the Council on opening themselves to litigation concerning public safety issues and immunity arguments. Further discussion ensued related to budgeted positions; Councilmember Schroeder, based on further discussion and consideration, spoke against the motion. Councilmember Ihlan spoke against the motion. Councilmember Kough spoke in favor of hiring these two officer positions, then implementing a freeze until arbitration is completed. Roll Call Ayes: None. Nays: Maschka, Kough, Schroeder, Ihlan and Klausing. 18. James Addition Task Force James Addition Councilmember Kough presented a proposal for creation of and Task Force