2019.01.23 CC Packet - Goal Setting Session

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CIP. The Fire Chief s recommendations have resulted in the planned replacement of the 1991 pumper/tanker truck with a ladder truck. Staff anticipates taking delivery of the new truck before the end of February. Other equipment needs will be evaluated by the Department. Continue Leadership Development Program, and Leadership Succession Plan. This program has been created by the Fire Chief and allows educational and training opportunities for HFD staff. We are aware of the Chiefs desire to retire, once he completes 20 years of service (near the end of 2020). Staff would like to ensure for a smooth transition in this key leadership role. Continue Grant Application System. The Fire Department has increased their participation in grant programs recently. It is a time intensive process to write grant applications, but it has had recent success. In 2018, The Department received grant dollars for replacement of the SCBA bottles. When successful, grants for the fire services can be substantial. HFD staff expects to continue a focus in this area in 2019. Parks: Recreation programs. The city is continuing to strengthen partnerships regarding programming for our residents. The staff is continuing work to add new programming for 2019 in collaboration with the Forest Lake YMCA. A task force created by the White Bear School District to assess the needs of seniors was finished in 2017 and is now being implemented. Some of the larger events created by city staff are now being run by some degree through our partnerships, which creates an ability for staff to consider additional programming opportunities. Trails. The Parks Commission focused last year on creating a master plan for trail connections within Clearwater Creek Preserve. We expect to work with Washington County on planning for a southerly extension of the Hardwood Creek Trail. Many important trail connections are being addressed through our partnerships with the development community. Water Access. The Parks Plan encourages a focus on improving access to the City's water amenities. Land is being dedicated along Sunset Lake this year, providing an additional public access possibility. Irish Avenue Park. The Parks Commission has added to goal to evaluate vegetative management within Irish Ave Park. Ultimately, a timeline, vision, and plan for Irish Ave Park will be created. Lions Park. The Parks Commission desires to implement the Lions Park master plan according to a phased schedule that could begin in 2020. The Commission still needs to identify revenue sources and next steps for redevelopment of this park. Clearwater Creek Preserve. The Parks Commission approved a master plan for this park in 2018, including millions of dollars of improvements. Long-term Parks Funding. While not specifically on the Parks Commission's list of goals, it is obvious that funding for improvements to the community parks listed above will not likely occur without a new funding source. Council may wish to discuss possible funding solutions in 2019.