03-24-2015 SCM - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

Tereasa Schmidt, 3240 Lake Elmo Ave, is opposed to the downtown sewer, and therefore wants the administrator gone. George Johnson asked why Lake Elmo is so dysfunctional. He believes it is due to arguments over growth. He suggested that the citizens talk to each other to work together. City Attorney Snyder brought up the proposed Council Driven Workshop. Council Member Lundgren spoke about the council trying to resolve issues. She said she does not appreciate inappropriate comments made towards her. Brenda Taylor, 7945 Hill Trail, supports the earlier petition. She does not understand why a 9 month contract is being proposed? She asked why the 18 months called for in the petition are not being considered. Mr. Snyder explained Administrator Zuleger is under contract with no certain term. Mr. Zuleger is currently an at-will employee who can leave at any time, or the council can terminate and provide severance per his contract. As an alternative, what is being proposed is a contract with a specified time where no review of contract would occur during this period. This motion would guarantee something that currently is not guaranteed. Council Member Bloyer wants to remove any doubt that the Council wants him in Lake Elmo. Debbie Dean , 8028 Hill Trail, asked what changed the council’s mind from prior desire to separate. John Schiltz, 3442 Lake Elmo Ave, was surprised with tone of Council. He reminded council that Mr. Zuleger asked the council to consider if it is time for new administrator under the current working environment. He thinks that Council is offering Mr. Zuleger a way out. He said that Mr. Zuleger never said he wanted another 9 months or to leave. He is concerned about the future of the city. Bruce Weeks, 1446 Lake Elmo Ave, had been looking for new place to live due to city changing. He wants slower growth and is concerned whether Mr. Zuleger style can work under that framework. Mr. Bloyer pointed out that Mr. Zuleger works for the Council and is under its direction. He implements the Council policies. Mayor Pearson brought up possible raise based on past council recommendation. Council Member Fliflet would consider it as part of a formal performance review. Mayor Pearson suggested a review take place 30-45 days out. Council Consensus was in favor of this approach. Motion passed 5-0 Mayor Pearson reiterated that the administrator does what the council instructs. The previous council gave direction and Mr. Zuleger followed it. Council Member Smith thanked those who called and emailed her. She denied all of the reported allegations against her. Mr. Snyder said that there have been no formal complaints filed. ITEM V: COUNCIL INTERACTIONS & BEHAVIOR