by Jack McLoone

Finance Manager Melanie Lammers’ last was day of employment was Monday, July 6th. In a memorandum addressed to Mayor Mary Fasbender and City Councilmembers, Administrative Services Director Julie Flaten requested the Council to enter into a contract with AEM Financial Solutions to provide interim Finance Manager services until September 30, 2020.

“Since her resignation notice was provided, staff have been working on a transition plan,” Flaten wrote. “We have identified several areas that would benefit from having outside assistance, as current staffing does not allow for these items to be completed timely. Some of these projects include the 2021 budget development, finishing the utility study review with Ehlers, the issuance of debt for the street reconstruction project, CARES Act reimbursement work and others.”

Flaten noted that in the past, the City has worked with Jean McGann of AEM Financial Solutions and recommended entering into a contract with them for the work.

“We anticipate having them work with us until September 30, 2020 or until a new Finance Manager is hired,” Flaten stated. “AEM Financial Solutions is a well-recognized and respected firm who provides financial management services for local governments and nonprofit agencies.”

“Based on our past experiences with cities of comparable size and complexity, we believe our structured contract with defined outcomes offered through AEM Financial Solutions, LLC would provide the City with excellent accounting services,” wrote Jean McGann, CPA and President of AEM Financial Solutions, LLC, in a letter to Flaten dated June 22nd.

The City Council unanimously approved the proposal and will pay AEM Financial Solutions $24,500 for services until September 30, 2020.

Donations accepted

The City of Hastings passed two resolutions expressing acceptance and appreciation of donations to the Parks and Recreation’s Department. The Ruedy Family presented $800 to the City Parks & Recreation Department for a memorial bench to be placed in a City Park or on a City Trail.

The Norring Family donated $1,200 to the City Parks & Recreation Department for a memorial bench and tree to be placed in a City Park or on a City Trail.

The resolutions expressing acceptance and appreciation of the donations were passed.