12-18-2013 Council Workshop Minutes

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MINUTES CITY COUNCIL DECEMBER 18, 2013 With regard to "Long Range Planning ", Blesener noted that the City's Comprehensive Plan serves as a long -range plan and noted that short -range planning is done annually as part of the City's goal setting. Keis noted the need for succession planning to determine what City staffing may look like over the next 5 to 10 year period. The Administrator pointed out that in addition to the City's goal setting sessions, the Council has always take advantage of opportunities as they arise. With regard to "Public Relations ", it was pointed out that there is very limited press coverage on City activities. The City utilizes its web site, Cable TV channel, and newsletter to communicate with its residents. With regard to "Intergovernmental Relations ", the Administrator pointed out the interactions that Little Canada has with surrounding cities as well as the County. He also reported that he serves on the League of MN Cities Insurance Trust Board and has learned a lot from this experience. The Administrator is also a member of a management peer group that recently began meeting, and felt that he will gain insight into other perspectives as a result of this membership. There was discussion about keeping on top of new trends, innovations, etc. relative to City government. The Administrator pointed out that the League of MN Cities does an excellent job of keeping cities aware and informed of new and hot button issues. He also commented on the City's use of Housing Improvement Areas to assist in upgrading the City's housing stock, implementation of an electric franchise fee, the sharing of equipment with other municipalities, etc. He noted that there may be some other innovative approaches that Little Canada can take in future staff restructuring. The Administrator felt that the City took a very practical approach in its operations, and did not envision nor feel that Little Canada needed to be on the cutting edge. The Administrator also pointed out the good working relationship that the Council has among themselves as well as staff, and the focus the Council has on key issues and getting things done. The Council then discussed "Professional /Personal Development" and Boss indicated that it was time for the Administrator to get a smart phone so that he is more accessible to the Council. The Administrator presented the Council with a 2013 Accomplishments Listing. The Council agreed that the overall rating they give the City Administrator's performance is that of exceeding expectations. After detailed discussion of the Administrator's 2014 salary, the Council agreed to increase his salary by 2 %, provide $2,000 in additional compensation for 2013 performance, as well as provide and pay for a smart phone and phone plan. Additionally, as outlined in the Administrator's contract, he is to receive $5,000 in deferred compensation into his ICMA account. 2