Consider a Resolution to Eliminate the Fire Department Secretary Position

The City Council and staff have been in discussion since January of this year in an effort to find a solution to the anticipated 2013 budget shortfall, given certain expenditure needs and objectives.  Specifically, there have been many difficult decisions regarding reductions to personnel through attrition, early voluntary separation, and layoffs.  After very careful consideration, staff suggests that it is in the best interest of the city of Ramsey to eliminate the Fire Department Secretary position.   The City Administrator, in cooperation with the Fire Chief and Police Chief, have identified several ways to streamline processes.   Specifically, the relocation of the Fire Department to the Police Department creates efficiencies by way of bringing together both areas of public safety.  

Upon City Council authorization to eliminate the Fire Department Secretary position, Ms. Lana Howell will be given a two week notice.  It is anticipated that she will work through approximately July 27, 2012.  Following her separation, Ms. Howell will receive a severance paid out according to the city's personnel policy.   As a member of the AFSCME group, Ms. Howell will retain re-call rights for a period of one year for the positon of Secretary. 

Authorization of resolution # 12-06-XXX, which upon City Council approval, will direct staff to eliminate the Fire Department Secretary positon and to layoff Ms. Lana Howell effective on or near July 27, 2012. 

The estimated annual savings as a result of the elimination of the Fire Department Secretary positon is approximately $62,376, less costs associated with tasks covered by the other personnel. 

Motion to approve resolution # 12-06-XXX, which upon City Council approval, will direct staff to eliminate the Fire Department Secretary positon and to layoff Ms. Lana Howell effective on or near July 27, 2012.