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Regular City Council Meeting Monday,April 11,2011 Page 22 cits needed to be addressed now. Mr. Houck further opined that government was responsible for two things, and only two things: safety of its citizens and infra- structure needs, each of which were addressed through Police and Fire services, and Public Works activities; with the most important of those three the Police to keep citizens safe. Mr. Houck opined that all other services and programs were on the table for adjustment or elimination. Mr. Houck opined that handing off ex- ercises to staff for recommended reductions or eliminations was the worst possi- ble way to accomplish anything and only served to upset people. Mr. Houck ad- vised that citizens had elected the City Council, not staff, and it was their respon- sibility to accomplish the task at hand, similar to that done by Councilmember McGehee, whom he acknowledged for her efforts. Mr. Houck opined that a ten percent (10%) reduction was not too much and was possible; and suggested that individual Councilmembers determine adjustments or cuts, and then collectively negotiate the final outcome for justification to the citizens. Mr. Houck noted that staff could help, but it was the responsibility of the City Council to take those steps. Gary Grefenberg, 91 Mid Oaks Lane Mr. Grefenberg opined that, since so much of the budget involves personnel that relate to each program, the City Council's schedule allow for a discussion on freezing salaries and step increases, as well as preparing for union negotiations; that could address potential cost savings. Mr. Grefenberg further opined that most citizens were not looking at programs or services, but salaries as a significant part of reducing the City's annual budget, similar to experiences in the private sector and being realized by many residents of Roseville. Mr. Grefenberg strongly ad- vocated for reduced or frozen salaries and step increases; and reduced out-of-state travel. Mr. Grefenberg opined that what had been accomplished by the City Council tonight was a good start, and spoke in support of a biennial budget and using the various documents to determine community goals and visions. Mayor Roe opined that additional personnel-related information was anticipated at the end of May; and that it was his personal assumption that a zero percent (0%) increase was indicated. City Manager Malinen advised that part of the process was for the City Council to go through their prioritization and ranking, providing direction to staff on how to proceed based on those priorities. Mr. Malinen advised that labor negotiations were in process, and sometimes could not be controlled depending on arbitration action; and subsequent impacts on the City's financial assumptions. Mr. Malinen advised that, upon receipt of the City Council's direction, staff would prepare a Preliminary, Not-to-Exceed Levy and associated budget. Mr. Malinen noted that, as part of those discussions and that direction, staff would present Councilmemb- ers with industry trends related to salaries and job classifications.