09-11-2002 Council Workshop Minutes

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MINUTES CITY COUNCIL SEPTEMBER 11, 2002 detailed report and recommendation for the Council to consider at an upcoming workshop. The City Administrator reviewed the fact that false alarm revenues are declining. This decline is likely the result of the false alarm fine system and the fact that property owners are making the corrections necessary to reduce the amount of false alarms. The Council reviewed the Parks & Recreation revenue portion of the budget discussing both maintenance fees and participant fees. The City Administrator reported that he would verify the budget amounts in these two areas. With regard to the expense side of the budget, the City Administrator noted that the D.A.R.E. program is being eliminated in 2003. This action was based on the fact that the Mounds View School District has eliminated D.A.R.E. funding, the Cities of Arden Hills and Shoreview were not willing to pick up the additional costs as a result of the Mounds View decision, and D.A.R.E. America has indicated that the program as stands is not effective. While elimination ofD.A.R.E. frees up $17,502, those funds remain in the Sheriff's contract costs and are directed at other resources. The Council discussed the increase of $12,600 due to the staff changes in Protective Inspections and the addition of a part-time position in the front office. The City Administrator reviewed the information relative to employee health insurance, noting the incorrect allocation of opt-out funds in the past. He noted that staff is reviewing the health insurance program, and indicated the potential cost of family health insurance to employees of $100 to $300 per month. Based on this impact, the Administrator asked if the Council would consider a phasing in of this cost. Fahey agreed that a different approach was needed relative to family health insurance coverage. It was the direction of the Council that the Administrator put together a detailed report and recommendation. The City Administrator reported that he is in discussions with the City of Falcon Heights about a shared building inspector position. It is anticipated That the position would be shared 70% Little Canada/30% Falcon Heights. The Administrator anticipated that this arrangement would result in a savings to the City. The Administrator indicated that he would keep the Council updated on his progress in this regard. Fahey stated that he would like to see the City move forward with acquisition of the missing pieces of property necessary for completion of its trail system. The Administrator pointed out that this was a goal identified at the City's goal setting