09/23/1998 Council Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Search

CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION SEPTEMBER 23, 1998 franchise fees. He also noted that Minnegasco is providing gas service to Lino Lakes by "hop scotching" all over the City. He stated the Centennial Middle School has gas from Minnegasco without permission. Vern felt there may also be a safety issue. The gas service areas need to be planned to eliminate a "patchwork quilt" of utilities. Kim stated this is a goal for the City Administrator to accomplish by June 1, 1999. She stated she is not willing to make an agreement right now. She suggested Vern come back to the next work session to update Council regarding what actions are needed determine service areas for all gas providers and provide a recommendation for franchise fees to be paid by all providers. It is appropriate to have another discussion for interim franchise areas. She stated if one company has a franchise fee, all companies must have a franchise fee. Vern stated he needs an administrative contact and legal contact to continue this work. He noted alternatives to franchise fees have been looked at but were cost prohibitive. Many cities are establishing a meter fee. Vern cautioned about a political backlash concerning meter fees. Kim asked Vern to return in two (2) weeks to go over the map and make a recommendation. Vern stated he would like to get all the companies together and have a meeting with Dave. Kim stated the City is looking for additional source of revenue. She is committed to all companies paying a fee if one compete is paying a fee. DISCUSS SALARY ADJUSTMENTS, PHASE II RESTRUCTURING, DAN TESCH Dan reviewed the proposed new salaries needed for four (4) directors due to new responsibilities. The goal is to be fair, correct some wrongs, and have marketable salaries. Dan went over a statistical summary of Group 6 City salaries. The proposed salaries are a midpoint of average salaries for a Group 6 City. John asked for the figures showing that the new structure is costing the City less. Dan indicated he will provide a document showing those figures at the Council meeting Monday night. Kim stated the Directors do deserve more money because they are doing more work. Kim expressed concern regarding Dan's salary and if it is adequate relative to other salaries. Dan indicated he is comfortable with his proposed salary but has not yet spoke to Dave about it. John suggested someone else review Dan's salary. Dan stated the maximum salaries are according to Labor Relations guidelines. Kim asked for a cover letter indicating the salaries are according to the Labor Relations guidelines. She also asked for documentation indicating the proposed salaries are appropriate. She stated she wants the cover letter and documentation for Monday night. It was the consensus of Council that all pay changes increasing salaries are effective the date of the reorganization. All pay changes decreasing salary will be effective Monday night. This item will be on the regular City Council agenda Monday, September 28, 1998. 4 • • •