ARLINGTON — The Arlington City Council considered a couple of professional services agreements, then welcomed the latest applicant to the Parks, Arts and Recreation Committee, during its Feb. 9 workshop.

Marc Hayes, of the community and economic development department, presented the proposal to continue the city’s contract with the Shockey Planning Group, to assist the planning department in completing the city’s Comprehensive Plan update for Growth Management Act compliance by the June 30 deadline.

When council member Jan Schuette asked about the use of the term “cottage housing” in the draft contract, Hayes noted that the area above the Country Charm Park is currently zoned for high-density housing, but added that the city is exploring the possibility of smaller residential units.

Hayes then reassured council member Jesica Stickles that the $57,000 for the contract has already been factored into the projected budget.

“I’d like to see a list of measurable accomplishments that we’ve achieved with this group,” council member Debora Nelson said.

Hayes responded by promising such a list would be forthcoming for 2014-15.

“We’re looking at doing that sort of synopsis, but I think you’ll see it more toward the fall,” Hayes said.

The city eliminated the medical services administrator position that had been occupied by Doug Schmidt, former division chief of the Arlington Fire Department. Public safety director Bruce Stedman presented a proposal to retain Schmidt for limited medical services administrator duties for six months.

“This is a mid-term fix, and we’re still exploring a long-term sustainable process,” said Stedman, who pointed out that the cost of up to $18,000 actually represents a cost savings compared to the amount that was budgeted for the position.

“That is pretty cheap,” council member Chris Raezer said.

“It’s the right thing to do, given how respected Doug is,” said Stedman, who argued the need to fill this position with someone who’s already familiar with the department.

Stedman later clarified to The Arlington Times that Schmidt’s original position was eliminated due to budgetary issues.

“He was going to go back to being a firefighter/paramedic, but decided to retire instead,” Stedman said. “He had planned on retiring soon anyway.”

Kristin Banfield welcomed Christopher St. John, an applicant for one of the PARC vacancies. St. John was interviewed Jan. 27, and his interview panel unanimously recommended he be appointed to a four-year term.

“At our last meeting, he actually stuck around and provided some valuable insights,” Banfield said.

Raezer told St. John: “We definitely need volunteers like you to help make this city run.”