07/13/1998 Council Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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BUDGET WORKSESSION AUGUST 8,1996 station. He noted that the fire fighters who operate the defibrillators have on -going training. Council Member Bergeson asked Chief Pecchia if he felt comfortable with cameras and computers in the squad cars. Chief Pecchia said yes. Council Member Bergeson asked why additional cameras and computers were not being requested. Chief Pecchia explained that he has one camera in each sergeants care. Mayor Landers asked what happens when there is a call for a second defibrillator? Chief Pecchia explained that there would be second at another fire station for their use. Mayor Landers felt that if the City had a major fire, there could be a problem. Chief Pecchia will prepare costs for two (2) additional defibrillators. Chief Pecchia noted that the Police Department has been getting calls from angry citizens trying to reach the Police Department after regular work hours because the department does not have voice mail. The department is also unable to transfer telephone calls to the squad cars. It was noted that $1,000 has been placed in the Police Department budget for contracting winter patrol on Bald Eagle Lake. Chief Pecchia noted that the focus for this area has changed to what is happening on the Lake instead of monitoring the trash problem. He recommended that the $1,000 be spent on additional patrol on the lake by the Lino Lakes Police Department. Council Member Neal asked him when work would be started on the new police station. Chief Pecchia said that he would like to get on it right away. Chief Pecchia explained his plan for four (4) additional police officers. In May, 1996 one officer from the COPS grant program was hired. One June 15, 1996 another officer was hired to replace an officer who resigned in 1995. In July, 1996 another officer was hired to replace Officer Keller. In August, 1997, two (2) additional officers will be hired to assure that there are two (2) officers per shift. Chief Pecchia asked the Council Members to call him if they have further questions. PARKS AND RECREATION Mr. Asleson explained that his department is trying to provide quality service in a growing city. He presented the Parks and Recreation program needs: 1. One full -time person 2. Increase the part-time office persons hours from 25 to 30 per week 3. Contracted Services includes seal coating of trails. This would be a new program. A trail overlay program will also be started. 4. Rental Equipment, primarily outdoor toilets PAGE 9