07-26-2023 Council Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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MINUTES CITY COUNCIL JULY 26, 2023 2 PRESENTATIONS Introduction of New District 13 Metropolitan Council Member Chai Lee The City Administrator commented that with the redistricting, Sue Vento, the longstanding representative of the City, has been transitioned to another district and Little Canada received a new representative, Chai Lee. Metropolitan Council Member Susan Vento commented that she has had the privilege of serving old district 11 for many years but now serves the new district 12. She thanked Little Canada, noting that it has been great to work with this community. She introduced the new member serving new district 13, which includes Little Canada, noting that he is a very engaged leader. Metropolitan Council Member Chai Lee introduced himself and noted that he has enjoyed serving with Council Member Vento since 2019 when he was appointed to the Metropolitan Council. He provided information on his background and the benefit that he has seen in regional government. He reviewed his educational and career experience in government and recognized the importance of local government. The City Administrator commented that he looks forward to working closely with Council Member Lee. He commented that the Hmong senior center is located in Little Canada and welcomed any ideas on how the City could partner with that entity. Council Member Lee commented that he will reach out through his network and then connect with the City. 2022 Annual Comprehensive Financial Report by Auditors – CliftonLarsonAllen The Finance Director introduced the representatives from the audit firm in attendance tonight to present the results of the audit for 2022. Lance Lauinger introduced himself and Michelle Hoffman. He thanked City staff for their preparation which assisted in making the process run smoothly. He provided details on the audit process and reviewed the required communications. He reported an unmodified, or clean, opinion on the finance statements. He noted that two material weaknesses were identified under the review of internal controls related to segregation of duties and material audit adjustments. He provided details on the review for MN legal compliance and recommended one update related to the employee-volunteer recognition policy. He stated that the City received the GFOA Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting for 2021 and anticipated that the City would again receive that award for 2022. Michelle Hoffman provided details on financial results including the general fund and enterprise funds. She also provided information on future debt service and tax rate comparison. She also reviewed some other updates for accounting standards that will be implemented in the near future. Mayor Fischer asked if there is a distinction with an agency offering PTO versus vacation and sick time. Ms. Hoffman commented that PTO would fall under the policy as well.