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City of Mounds View Staff Report <br /> January 30, 1998 <br /> Page 2 <br /> Both Wally and Larry are eligible for retirement in the year 2000. Staff has always anticipated in <br /> that budget year we would hire replacements for the positions, prior to their retirement. This <br /> period of time would be used for training of the new personnel. The amount of knowledge of our <br /> system these two individuals have, must be passed on to their successors prior to their departure. <br /> Hiring of a streets or parks worker, already possessing the necessary skills to perform the job <br /> from one city to another is a relatively easy transition. The intricacies and special attention that <br /> are required for an underground system can be much more complicated. <br /> In light of the grossly reduced maintenance hours projected to be available for 1998,the <br /> unknown possibility that Wally might not return to work at all, the act of playing catch up in <br /> maintenance and the future well being of the City's aging sanitary sewer system, staff is <br /> requesting to hire an additional position in the Sewer Division. This position would be of entry <br /> level status. Training and educating an individual would be accomplished at a reduced wage, in <br /> comparison to a veteran in the field. When the retirement of one or both of these individuals <br /> occurs,the City will be properly prepared for their departure. The learning curve for <br /> replacements will have already occurred and maintenance of the system will not have been <br /> reduced. It is estimated that this position will increase the Sewer Division's budget by <br /> approximately $36,000.00 and require a transfer from the Sewer Reserve account. Progressing <br /> through the step system to the top salary outlined in the contract will take five years. <br /> Staff was not aware of the scenario that might play out during the 1998 budget period or this <br /> discussion could have taken place at that time. It was always expected that Wally would fully <br /> recover from his injuries and return to his duties full time. Providing an additional position to <br /> fulfill the maintenance needs of the system,train and educate the individual at this time will <br /> prove to be very beneficial to the City. Reducing or ultimately eliminating sewer backups into <br /> residential basements through proper maintenance is our goal. It will provide increased trust in <br /> the department, reduce financial claims against the City, and maintain good public relations. <br /> Staff is requesting this position, if approved by Council, would begin employment March 2, <br /> 1998. If Council has any questions or concerns regarding this report, please feel free to call me. <br /> ' <br /> c ael' Ulrich, for of Public Works <br />