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Session 1918 May 3, 2004 Ms. Welsch, lauded the new park director for her professionalism, but pointed out that she was new to the community and may not be aware of community tradition. She suggested waiting a year to make this decision. Mayor Adams pointed out that it is necessary to free staff time now. Ms. Welsch then stated that before being asked to decide she would like to know: how the two staff members will spend the additional time they will be allowed, and she would like to know, specifically, what programs they will work on. She admitted this was a contradiction, because she is in favor of more programs. Mr. Ollendorff responded that one example of how this staff time is needed is to assist in the supervision of the six million dollar contract about to begin in four week's time. Ms. Welsch said she would like to have known this, and Mr. Ollendorff said that he took her suggestion and appreciated it. Councilmember Wagner asserted that there are two aspects of the City Charter; some decisions are to be made by the City Manager and some are to be made by the City Council, and that each must be left to their respective areas, otherwise it is a matter of "micromanaging the City Manager." He also said that the Parks Commission, a commission of citizens, considered the proposal just as the City Council is considering it, and it is necessary to trust their advice. Councilmember Brungardt expressed concern at Ms. Glickert's allegation that the Sunshine Law had been violated, and she noted that the outcome may have been different if people had known about the meeting's change of time. She underscored the importance of citizen contributions to the decision-making process. Mayor Adams said that sometimes these meetings are rescheduled, but changes occur far enough in advance that the Sunshine Law is not violated. Mr. Sharpe moved to approve the contract, and Mr. Wagner seconded the motion. Ms. Welsch directed her comment to Councilmember Wagner, saying she "appreciates the Charter and knows that this is decision for staff' but she thinks it is appropriate to share thoughts with the City Manager in this forum. She would like to have had comments on the building program, on comments from the Parks Commission, neither of which was provided, and she hopes that "open discussion during Council Meetings is not discouraged." The motion was carried with six AYE votes and Ms. Brungardt voting NAY. AGENDA ITEM #5 - Public Hearinq on Annual Budqet A public hearing has been scheduled for 7:30 p.m. this date and place to allow citizens the opportunity to comment on the budget for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2004. Another opportunity will be available on May 17, 2004, the next regular City Council meeting. All comment will be considered by the City Council prior to budget approval in June. Page 14