HomeMy WebLinkAboutFEB 2021_MinutesCEC Committee
Meeting Minutes
February 18, 2021
Present: Abby Haferman, Andrea Nelson, Marcia Diers, Kim Churchill, Brad McCarter,
Jessica Weber, Dick Felch, Lucy Kender, Wade Larson
Excused:
Unexcused:
Tom Driscoll, Patrick Heaney, Kimberly Clauson
James Speiker
I Fire Department Year in Review
Fire Chief Rick Steinhaus gave an overview of the Fire Department, including the service area
which includes Credit River and Spring Lake Township. Much of the discussion was about the paid
on-call firefighter service model and how it is becoming more and more difficult run, not just here
but across the state. Chief Steinhaus explained what a ‘duty crew’ model is and explained that this
model will be necessary in Prior Lake in the near future. The committee agreed that the CEC
would be a good place for the Chief to return when the duty crew model is ready to be proposed
to the Council and community as there will be significant financial impacts. The committee
requested a tour of the Fire Station and further discussion with the Chief on fire services when it is
safe to do so (COVID-19) later this year.
II Police Department Year in Review
Police Chief Frazer provided an update on how the Police Department was able to function during
the pandemic. He noted the ability to work remotely was established during this time and that it
will be very helpful in future emergency situations. A question was asked about domestic assault
calls over the past few months, and the Chief responded that they have been down. Chief Frazer
told the committee about the planning and preparation underway related to the Derek Chauvin
trial, although he does not anticipate any threats in Prior Lake. A question was asked about
preparing for civil unrest in general and Chief Frazer gave an overview. Chief Frazer also discussed
the growth of the City and staffing needs related keeping up with this growth to ensure public
safety.
III. Council Member Liaison Update
Council Member Churchill updated the committee on the City’s proposed vaping ordinance. A
public hearing on the proposed ordinance was held at the Tuesday, February 16 City Council
meeting. A revised ordinance is being drafted and will be presented to the Council later this
spring. The group discussed holding a special CEC meeting to review the ordinance and discuss for
those who are interested. Assistant City Manager Olson will confer with Council Member Churchill
and follow-up.
IV. Adjourn
Meeting adjourned at 5:18pm.
Next meeting is March 18 (virtual)