Laserfiche WebLink
MINUTES <br />CITY COUNCIL <br />NOVEMBER 13, 2013 <br />department has 55 fire fighters serving 88,000 people, therefore, per capita <br />costs are less expensive. Blesener noted that this department also has a <br />different pension system as retirees receive a monthly benefit versus limp <br />sum. <br />McGraw asked if either the $15,000 or $31,000 would be the City's total <br />contribution toward the Fire Relief Fund. Blesener pointed out that that <br />would depend on how the fund performs. The Administrator explained <br />the City's obligation to make up any fund deficit. McGraw asked if the <br />City's contribution would be reduced if the fund performed well. The <br />Administrator responded that in that case, benefit increases would be <br />requested. The Administrator stated that the goal is to have a reasonably <br />growing benefit level. Keis pointed out that the Fire Relief benefit is a <br />tool in attracting volunteer fire fighters. <br />The Administrator again noted that he and Council representatives will be <br />meeting with the Fire Relief Association to discuss a number of issues and <br />try to come up with a plan that will be sustainable for the long term. <br />McGraw asked the current benefit level. The Administrator reported that <br />it is $3,200 per year of service. The Administrator explained the specifics <br />of how the relief benefit works, noting that a fire fighter is vested in the <br />plan at 10 years of service and fully vested at 20 years. <br />The Administrator suggested that a Council workshop meeting be <br />scheduled to discuss the outcome of the meeting with the Relief <br />Association so that the Council can make a decision on the amount of <br />voluntary City contribution for 2014. <br />There was additional discussion on proposed 2014 salary increases, with <br />the Administrator noting that 2014 salaries would be ratified as part of the <br />Council's budget actions at December 18, 2013 meeting. Boss noted that <br />there is no proposal for an increase in seasonal salary scales. The <br />Administrator indicated that he would survey surrounding cities to see <br />where these salaries are at and bring a recommendation back to the <br />Council. <br />ADJOURN There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 6:50 p.m. <br />5 <br />am Blesener, Mayor <br />