2023.01.23 Packet - Goal Setting Workshop

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Commercial and Industrial Design Guidelines. The City approved construction of 3 buildings near 130th and Fenway with architectural metal as an exterior finish. The approval required a variance, since metal is prohibited as a primary building material. The Planning Commission is expected to evaluate and recommend whether to allow alternatives such as this in our allowed construction standards. Development Review. While there are multiple development project that have been approved or are proceeding through the review process, staff is anticipating a slower year in construction and permitting activity in 2023 due to prevailing economic conditions. Administration: Deputy Clerk Position. A new position is in the 2023 Budget that is being called a “Deputy Clerk” for now. The City Hall team needs assistance in several administrative areas at this time. The City also has a need for improved coordination of City-wide communications, website management, and social media efforts. Staff intends to prepare a position profile and job description for hiring of this person. This effort could also involve a minor reorganization of responsibilities for other staff members. City website. The City’s website is out-of-date, and should be modernized. Funds are within the budget for updating it, and staff intends to work through the design process and launch a new website in 2023. Public works reorganization. Staff will discuss with Council in early 2023 a proposed implementation plan. We anticipate the Department reorganization will be complete by mid- year. Administrative Policies. There are a number of updates staff intends to evaluate in 2023 to the personnel policy. Staff also anticipates modifications to some human resources practices, and updates of policies related to remote work and tweaks to policies related to time-off. THC Edibles. The City’s moratorium will expire in late summer, and our program for administration of THC Edibles, and possible legalization of marijuana will need to be set in place by then. This spring, we expect significant legislative discussion and likely new laws on this topic. Hopkins School House. In early 2023, the Hopkins Schoolhouse Committee will ask the Council for approval to begin a process that would eventually lead to restoration of the school house. If approved, staff will be working with the Committee on an agreement and a framework to allow this work to proceed. Assessment Fees. In 2022, Council asked staff to review the assessment policy and related fees, which have not been changed for some time. If Council is still interested, staff will suggest a policy discussion at a workshop to discuss City assessments for road projects and whether the City should continue its policy with existing fees, or move in different direction.