By Sara StrongUntil the city can hire a new Utilities Coordinator, Lennis "Red" Arndt will continue in that capacity as a consultant to finish current projects.Arndt technically retired at the end of September. He will be paid $34.50 per hour as a consultant and advisor on the hospital and clinic project, underground electric projects, Lewis and Clark Rural Water project and other items that he’s been heavily instrumental in working on for the city.If a replacement is found for Arndt, he will stay on for up to 120 days to help in training during the transition.Councilman Tom Martius voted against the consultant agreement with Arndt.When the Utilities Coordinator position is filled, it could also cover Public Works Department in a joint position as part of the city’s overall restructuring of programs and staff.In other reorganizing efforts, City Administrator Greg LaFond reported to the council Tuesday that the Rock County Pool and Fitness Center appears to be reducing substantial personnel costs without a manager. Instead, city offices and LaFond will take on management duties.The city is meeting with Sioux Valley Hospitals and Health System to work on more rehab partnerships with the facility than were done in the past.AttorneyCouncilman David Hauge brought concerns about the City Attorney’s Office to the table Tuesday.He said that some work has been on hold in the office and that city business is being slowed, causing "frustration" from him, city staff and constituents."We shouldn’t have to beg and plead to get things done. … I’ve got to say something to my constituents."The City Attorney, Don Klosterbuer, has served in that capacity since 1980. Other members of the firm Skewes, Klosterbuer and Vajgrt also do work on behalf of Klosterbuer for the city.Councilman Bob Kaczrowski said the office may have been especially bogged down this year, with special projects like the hospital and other major city work. Also, assistant city attorney Jeff Haubrich served as interim city administrator for Luverne, taking time away from usual duties at the attorney’s office. The council voted to advertise for proposals from attorneys to open the job to others, if any.LaFond clarified that the requests for proposals didn’t indicate that the city would definitely change attorneys, but that it may only serve to "define parameters" of the job.
