04-14-2004 Council Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

MINUTES CITY COUNCIL APRIL 14, 2004 TOWN MEETING RAMSEY COUNTY JAN WIESSNER Mayor Fahey invited the general public to the City's Town Meeting to be held on Saturday, April 17, 2004 at the City Center at 9:00 a.m. Ramsey County Commissioner Jan Wiesner appeared before the Council to provide an update on key issues in Ramsey County and to address any issues that the City might have. Wiesner reported on the strong County management that is in place noting that one of the results is that Ramsey County has the highest possible credit ratings, and is only one of three Minnesota counties to achieve a Triple A rating. Wiesner also reported on impacts to the County due to unfunded mandates and State budget cuts. She noted that only about 10% of the County's budget is discretionary. As a result, discretionary services have taken the heaviest hit as the result of budget cuts. Wiesner was concerned that if budget cuts conthrue, the County will not longer be able to provide discretionary services. Fahey indicated that he can appreciate the County's position given the fact that the City has also been impacted by State Aid cuts and levy limits. Wiesner reviewed age demographic information for Ramsey County, pointing out the aging population which increases the need for services. Wiesner highlights the County's and City's cooperative efforts in terms of economic development. She also reviewed the County's draft transportation plan, noting her disappointment that the Rice Street interchange will not be upgraded in time to help mitigate some of the traffic problems that will result because of the Unweave the Weave project. Wiesner reported that the new law enforcement center is now open and is incurring heavy usage. The old jail site will be redeveloped into housing and commercial space. She also reported on the relocation of the patrol station in Shoreview to the County's new public works site in fu den Hills. Fahey raised the suburban court issue noting the Council's position against relocating a suburban court in Little Canada. Fahey pointed out that Little Canada is a small city that already a great deal of property off the tax rolls. Fahey suggested that a suburban court was better located in a larger city that could absorb the loss of tax revenue. Wiesner reported that she understands the City's position on the suburban court issue. At the present time County staff is putting together a list of potential sites, with the understanding that the preference is to building on