11-09-2015 Council Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

Orono City Council Work Session, October 26, 2015 Page 2 Compensation Study Next Steps (continued) Council Member Walsh felt the compensation was fair when considering the staff additions. Loftus suggested reviewing the Police Department compensation portion of the study if Council felt it was not a true picture of the department. Council Member Cornick stated that the Compensation Study should be implemented as presented. This has been in discussion for several months and it’s time to move forward. It is not right to pick and choose certain areas or positions for adjustment. Council reviewed the recommendation of a 2.75% cost of living adjustment (COLA). Council discussed increase options of somewhere between 2 to 2.75%. The decision of whether the increase would be a combination of a lump sum and COLA or if an increase would be strictly COLA will be discussed at the November work session. 2. Park Commission Purpose and Guidance Public Works Director Adam Edwards provided information on the Park Commissions plans to provide park services for the Orono residents. The information also identified Council concerns of the group regarding their focus compared to the Councils intentions when re-instituting the group in 2014. Park Commission Chair Rick Meyers addressed the Council on the goals and activities of the Commission. The Park Commission has focused on the maintenance and housekeeping of the current parks in Orono. The Livingston Park improvement is their first major park renovation and the goal is to have the parks maintained and accessible to all residents. The Park Commission advises and makes recommendations to the Council and the Commission cannot move forward without their approval. There have been many compliments received from residents on the improvements that have been made to date. Council discussed rotating the Council Liaison for each meeting. Council Member Walsh felt there should be one Council Liaison to keep consistency in communication and other Council Members are welcome to attend the meetings at any time. Council appreciates the Park Commission’s accomplishments. Council discussed an annual work session to review the proposed projects and goals.