CC WS 2021 02 08CHANHASSEN CITY COUNCIL
WORK SESSION
SUMMARY MINUTES
FEBRUARY 8, 2021
Mayor Ryan called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.
MEMBERS PRESENT: Mayor Ryan, Councilwoman Rehm (Zoom), Councilman Campion,
and Councilwoman Schubert
MEMBERS ABSENT: None.
STAFF PRESENT: Interim City Manager Heather Johnston
CONSULTANT PRESENT: Lynn Barboza, Strategic Government Resources
DISCUSSION ON CITY MANAGER SEARCH: Mayor Ryan and Council Member Schubert
reported back on the additional due diligence that was done on the finalist candidate. Ms.
Barboza asked the Council if they wanted to proceed with the finalist candidate or relaunch the
search. Council consensus was to move forward with the finalist candidate.
Council discussed what may be included in the employment contract and directed staff to enter
into negotiations with Laurie Hokkanen for a contract as the Chanhassen City Manager.
Council further discussed what they would be expecting of a new City Manager in the first year
at the City. Council expressed support for a long-term financial plan that was aligned with the
City’s long-term goals, including parks and equipment. Council consensus was for additional
engagement with the community, both formally and informally. This may include “flash voting”
or some other tool that would allow for brief surveys on timely topics. The new City Manager
should continue to address issues raised in the Employee Survey, including improving internal
communication and employee recognition. A communications plan for the Manager may include
a regular update for the community of some form.
The meeting adjourned at 6:51 pm.
Submitted by Heather Johnston
Interim City Manager
Prepared by Kim Meuwissen