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� � ' �i �l Memo To: Mayor and Council, Neal Beets, City Manager � From: Chris Miller, Finance []�r�t� � Date: November 15,2004 Re: Discussion of the City's Out-of-State Training Policy Date: 11/15/04 Item: 8. City Travel Policy Background At the October 18, 2004 Council Meeting, the Council directed Staff to bring forth the City's policy on attendance of out-of-state training events or conferences for discussion purposes. To the best of Staffs knowledge, the last time the Council discussed the Policy was in 1999. A copy of the Policy is included in Attachment A. Discussion Items The Policy has been established in such a fashion that encourages professional development and training within an appropriate level of financial resources. By fostering an environment of continuing education, the City is better able to attract and retain high-performing employees, and more importantly is better-positioned to respond to the changing needs of the City. Attendance at out-of-state conferences also provides an opportunity for employees to learn about ideas and innovations that have proven successful in other regions, but may not necessarily be well-known at the local level. While the Policy is somewhat specific as to who may attend out-of-state training events, it also specifies that above all else, the needs of the City should be considered in determining whether an employee should attend. Requests to attend out-of-state training events are submitted with the following year's budget by the Department Head for approval by the City Manager. The request is supported by an explanation as to why the training is needed, and what goals and objectives are expected to be accomplished. Attachment ❑ Attachment A: City Policy on Out-of-State Training/National Conferences Final Comments Staff will be prepared to discuss the policy at the Council meeting.