The Lake Elmo City Council on Jan. 7 approved hiring Raftelis (contract not to exceed $52,350) to perform an operational assessment of the Public Works Department.

Administrator Miller told the council the item was tabled in December to refine the scope and outcomes. Staff solicited proposals and reviewed references; Raftelis provided a project team with public-works subject-matter expertise and the greater senior-level hours the city sought. Although Baker Tilly submitted a lower-cost proposal, staff said Baker Tilly’s team included fewer public-works subject-matter experts and fewer assigned SME hours.

Council members said they preferred the higher-cost proposal because the firm offered the experience and staffing needed to produce actionable recommendations. Council member Holtz said she would “rather do it right the first time” and expressed support for paying the higher cost to get subject-matter experts on the project. Another council member observed that an improved assessment could produce staffing recommendations that ultimately save the city money.

The council voted to approve the professional services agreement not to exceed $52,350; the motion passed on an affirmative voice vote.

Ending: Staff will work with Raftelis on the scope and schedule and return to council with progress and any required decisions stemming from the assessment’s recommendations.