CITY OF HUDSON COMMON COUNCIL

MEETING MINUTES OF WEDNESDAY, MARCH 14, 2007

Meeting called to order by Mayor Jack Breault in the Council Chambers of City Hall at 7:00 p.m.

PRESENT: Mayor Breault and Alderpersons Randy Morrissette, Dennis O’Connell, Paul Radermacher, Lee Wyland, Scot O’Malley, and Carah Koch.

OTHERS PRESENT: Police Chief Andy Smith, Paul Larson, Gordon Conard, Don Maysack, Jeff Tersteeg, Mike Laatsch, Randy Hanson, Debbie Laatsch, and Betty Caruso.

Consider scheduling and advertising for a Public Forum and Special Council meeting to discuss and possibly take action on the proposed River Walk Project: Mayor Breault introduced the topic of possibly holding a public forum to hear comments regarding the proposed Lakefront Park River Walk Project. He noted that there was no particular approach necessary for spending the money from the 2007 bond issue. MOTION by Morrissette, second by Radermacher, to publish a notice for a public hearing for citizen comments regarding the proposed River Walk Project, and to advertise the notice for two weeks in the local newspaper.

Discussions included suggestions about a possible meeting date. Mayor Breault stated that a special meeting should be considered, as it might be well attended. Additional discussion was held regarding the timing of the hearing and decision making. O’Malley questioned the involvement of the Plan Commission.

Information was shared that bids for the two portions of the project would be opened on March 15^th. Mayor Breault noted that Council members would be advised of the bid results. Vote taken: Ayes (4), Noes: O’Connell and O’Malley. MOTION CARRIED.

Consideration and possible action regarding creating new positions in the Police Department: Mayor breault introduced Police Chief Andy Smith and welcomed him as a City employee. His background and experience were shared. It was noted that he had been a member of the Minneapolis police force for 16 years and has lived in the City of Hudson for five years.

Chief Smith praised Lt. Paul Larson for his work as Acting Chief and for his assistance during the transition. He shared the mission of the Police Department and stated his goals. The first issue he addressed was Patrol Officer supervision at night. He advised filling the Patrol Sergeant position immediately and stated the necessity for having leadership and procedures in place. Chief Smith recommended immediately approving the promotion to fill the Sergeant position that was vacated, and creating an additional Sergeant position to provide night patrol supervisory coverage seven days a week. He noted that there was money available in the 2007 budget for the positions.

Additional information was shared concerning the recent resignation of another patrol officer. Chief Smith asked for approval for the next candidate to be hired from the Eligibility List to fill that position. Finance Officer Betty Caruso confirmed that there would still be a $13,000 savings in the Police Department budget, even after all the recommended changes occur.

MOTION by Morrissette, second by Radermacher, to approve the replacement for the vacated Sergeant position, to be effective immediately. All ayes (6), MOTION CARRIED.

MOTION by Radermacher, second by Morrissette, to approve the creation of an additional night Sergeant position for supervisory coverage in the Police Department. All ayes (6), MOTION CARRIED.

MOTION by Radermacher, second by O’Connell, to approve funding for hiring the next Patrol Officer candidate from the Eligibility List. Lt. Larson explained the current status of the personnel changes within the Department. Ms. Caruso explained that the positions would need funding in 2008. All ayes (6), MOTION CARRIED.

The second issue Chief Smith addressed concerned speeding in the City. He noted that the Police Department currently has only one moving radar unit, and another on order. He recommended the purchase of four additional radar units, along with training certification for the officers, for a total cost of $13,000. Mayor Breault noted that this was not an agenda item and could not be discussed at the meeting. He recommended Chief Smith present his proposal to the Finance Committee at the March 19^th meeting. Chief Smith also noted his desire to bring a mid-range critical needs plan before the Council in about 90 days for information and discussion. He also expressed a desire to be pro-active in dealing with issues and problems.

MOTION by O’Malley, second by O’Connell to adjourn at 7:34 p.m. All ayes (6). MOTION CARRIED.

Nancy J. Korson, City Clerk

I hereby certify that the City Clerk has submitted the foregoing minutes to me, and I hereby by my signature approve said minutes and all acts of the Common Council as sent forth therein.

Jack D. Breault, Mayor