Minutes - 2002/07/22 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Mounds View City Council July 22, 2002 Regular Meeting Page 34 Mayor Sonterre indicated his goals remain the same, if the City can provide an equal or greater level of service at a reduced cost, then it is worth looking into. If it cannot be done then leave it as is. Council Member Marty indicated he had received a number of calls from residents concerned about Council proposing changes to the police department because residents feel the police department is doing a good job and does not need changing. He then said he had informed residents that Council directed Staff to look into the possibility of a joint force. Council Member Quick indicated that Council had directed Staff to write a letter and proceed with an investigation to determine whether it was cost effective to combine the police force with New Brighton. He then said he is with the Mayor on this one, if it can be done at the same level of service for less money, he would be in support but, if not, then it should be left alone. City Administrator Miller confirmed that Council is interested in looking at the numbers for a merger but not a contract for services. Council Member Stigney commented that, if the goal is to reduce costs, and the contract for services turns out to be less costly, how can Council say no to that. He then said he would not be advocating that type of arrangement but, if the costs are lower, and lowering costs is the goal, why would it not be considered. • Council Member Thomas said it was her understanding that Council was interested in reduced cost with no loss of service and she believes losing control over the force through a contract for services would be a reduction in service and she would not support that. She then stated that she would like to see the numbers for a combined force to determine if it would be less costly. City Administrator Miller indicated that Ms. Gunn had contacted her about the festival agreement and wondered if she would be reimbursed the portion of the $4,000 that was budgeted. She then indicated that she needed Council direction as to whether regular hours worked by public works on Friday to set up and Monday for clean up should be included in the costs for the festival in addition to the overtime hours worked. Council Member Quick indicated if the hours were worked on the festival they should be counted towards the festival. Council Member Stigney agreed with Council Member Quick. Council Member Marty commented that, since there was not a parade, the manpower hours would be reduced. City Administrator Miller indicated the numbers were significantly less than last year. • Mayor Sonterre indicated the question is do you bill only for overtime or for all hours on behalf of the festival.