10:45The meeting’s primary focus was on proposed pay raises and restructuring within the parks department. A discussion unfolded regarding the fairness of increasing salaries for certain employees while others might not receive any adjustments. The restructuring plan proposed consolidating the superintendent and clubhouse director roles into a new position, titled Park Complex Operations Director, with a suggested pay rate of $32 per hour. Additionally, new titles and pay rates were proposed for the assistant and maintenance technician roles, renamed to Park Complex Lead Maintenance Technician and Park Complex Lead Grounds Technician, with a pay of $30 per hour.

Council members raised concerns about the disparity such raises might create among staff, fearing it could lead to resentment. One member highlighted the additional responsibilities shouldered by these employees due to the departure of a former employee, while another argued that it would be unfair to award substantial raises to a few without considering the rest of the full-time staff. There was acknowledgment that these employees were managing tasks previously handled by their predecessor, Zach, and that the restructuring warranted consideration of additional compensation.

To address the increased workload, the council discussed hiring additional full-time employees instead of relying on numerous part-timers to ensure consistent operations. The idea was that a few full-time employees could handle a broader range of responsibilities, thereby improving operational efficiency.

Despite differing opinions, motions were passed to approve the pay raises for the newly restructured roles. However, the decision was not without opposition, as one member voted against the raise for the second technician’s position. This outcome emphasized the council’s ongoing efforts to balance compensation fairness with operational demands.

22:25Beyond staffing matters, the council approved a bid for replacing the handrail and step railing in front of city hall. The bid, totaling $4,950, would cover materials, fabrication, welding, powder coating, transporting, and installation. This decision stemmed from safety concerns due to existing rust on the rail. A motion to accept the bid passed unanimously, with a suggestion to repurpose some of the remaining good sections of the rail at other city locations.

02:20In addition to these discussions, Chief Henkin of the police department provided updates on police activities, noting 394 calls for service this year, aligning with last year’s figures. He highlighted a recent educational initiative at Pioneer Elementary and requested council approval for the “Walking Wings” event permit, which was granted unanimously. Chief Henkin also discussed a collaboration with the Little Falls Police Department for the Piers Freedom Fest, ensuring adequate coverage for both events through a shared four-hour shift, which the council approved without opposition.

05:23Brad from the Parks Department reported on the golf course and campground operations, mentioning a significant manpower shortage and challenges posed by recent wet weather. Despite these challenges, he noted a successful holiday weekend with positive feedback. Progress on the new nine holes of the golf course continued, with plans to further cut and shape the fairways.

07:27Jared provided an update on the 2024 street project, detailing completed work and a payment request of $2,645, which the council approved unanimously. He projected the final paving to be completed by June 21st.