08-02-2022 City Council Meeting Minutes

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City Council Minutes August 2, 2022 Page 6 of 7 categories down and the potential for negotiations during hiring of a new employee. Mr. Spiczka addressed severance pay and sick leave. He stated that he would like to see the percentage paid out increase to reward an employee for their service instead of them possibly taking more sick time when it is not necessarily needed. He stated the membership and dues policy was very loose in the past and he would like to see staff say it is really good for the city and not just the employee. He would like the vehicle policy moved to the personnel policy. Mr. Spiczka asked for Council recommendations. He stated it has not been updated in ten years, only small bits and pieces have been updated in that time frame. 10.4. Comparative Study Update Angie Duus stated that the city contacted other Clerks and Administrators for wages and benefits to compare to the City of Pequot Lakes current wages. She stated the wages vary among the area and that Pequot is on the lower end of some but comparable to others. Discussion ensued about tax rate and population. Mr. Spiczka stated the direction received from Council was not to spend money on a study, but they would like to see comparisons. Discussion ensued about recruiting people and be mindful of the tax rate. Mr. Spiczka stated the information is being looked at to help in the budgeting process. He said that other communities are looking at a minimum of an eight percent cola and market rate increase currently. 10.5. Utility Bill Adjustment—Harlan V.Johnson Mayor Pro-Tern Clement informed the Council that they reduced Mr. Johnson's bill two times last year for about$660. He said the city made Mr. Johnson aware last year to install a deduct meter as it is a clear remedy to the issue. Mayor Pro- Tern Clement stated the city has a letter that he inquired about a deduct meter on August 1, 2022. Council Member Ronning suggested giving a credit of$47.55 and send a letter to get a deduct meter and also inform him the city will not credit him anymore. COUNCIL MEMBER RONNING MOVED TO DISCOUNT HIS SEWER PORTION BY$47.55 TO HARLAN V.JOHNSON'S REQUEST TO ADJUST HIS JUNE WATER SEWER USAGE BILL. MAYOR PRO-TEM CLEMENT SECONDED THE MOTION. MOTION CARRIED 4-0. 10.6 Reminder of Meeting Date Changes Mr. Spiczka reminded the Council that meetings will be Mondays at 6:00 p.m. stating in October. He said the city will be sending official notices and reminders to the Council and Commission members. He stated it will also be put in the paper for the public to be reminded of the change.