Minutes - 2009/12/14 - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

Mounds View City Council December 14, 2009 Regular Meeting Page 11 advertise, candidates interviewed in January, the finalist selected by the end of January, a recommendation presented to the Council for hiring, and the position to start in early March. Council Member Mueller noted that just over $3.3 million of street and highway expenditures are budgeted in 2010 and fees for consultants are typically between 20-25% of that figure. However, if the City can save even 10% it would be $330,000 from the 2010 budget. If using a very conservative 5%, it would save $165,000. She asked if hiring a Public Works Supervisor would cost $165,000. Public Works Director DeBar stated at Step 3, wages plus benefits would equal about $85,000. Finance Director Beer advised that $75,000 is in the 2010 budget, half paid from the Water Sewer Fund and half from the General Fund. Council Member Mueller stated if this position is filled, the City not only realizes a potential savings from engineering and consulting costs on street projects but also the opportunity for efficiencies in the department. Public Works Director DeBar stated that is correct and he is convinced they can find a lot of efficiency. The Council discussed the job responsibilities. Public Works Director DeBar stated this position will focus on operation and maintenance issues, help with engineering to write specs and conduct inspections, so someone with a background in construction management would be a good fit. Public Works Director DeBar reviewed potential savings in consultant fees based on CIP projects, estimating a conservative figure of $135,000 without purchasing new software or hiring additional staff. Mayor Flaherty stated that he wasn’t convinced this was a good time to add personnel but Public Works Director DeBar has indicated the City will save money on consulting fees. Public Works Director DeBar stated he will document what has been done and savings realized in the quarterly report. Mayor Flaherty indicated his preference to not post a salary range since a lot of qualified people are currently unemployed and would love an opportunity to work for the City. Clerk- Administrator Ericson stated the City sometimes posts a range, a maximum, or minimum, but it is up to the Council. He stated the City can post an anticipated stating salary at Step 1 and indicate it depends on qualifications. MOTION/SECOND: Mueller/Hull. To Waive the Reading and Adopt Resolution 7545, Approving a Revised Position Description and Authorizing the Advertisement for Hiring a Public Works Supervisor, as revised to remove the salary range. Council Member Stigney stated this is not the time to hire a new department head and suggested adjusting the department by promoting existing personnel, not hiring from the outside. Mayor Flaherty stated he looked forward to staff’s quarterly reports showing the savings. Council Member Stigney asked what this position will cost the City next year. Public Works Director DeBar stated he thinks this position will offset consulting fees the first year if the position is filled at Step 1. He noted that internal applications may be considered.