11-29-2023 Council Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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MINUTES CITY COUNCIL NOVEMBER 29, 2023 Kwapick stated that he was more intrigued by the 2022 unassigned balance, which could provide a one percent reduction and would leave the community building item in the budget. The Finance Director confirmed that balance is available for reduction of the levy. Mayor Fischer agreed that would be a good option. The Finance Director provided additional details on the community building line item and the positive impact that will have going forward. T. Miller commented that the proposed budget and levy as presented is already a reduction from the preliminary adopted amount. She did not want to cut much more out of the budget/levy. Mayor Fischer commented that the Council and staff have had a lot of discussion on the budget and levy. He did not want to take the funds planned for the community building because of the impact that would have on the future. He stated that he shares the opinion that they need to make sure they keep all residents in mind as they consider projects and increases and believed that they have done that. He stated that he would like to leave the budget and levy as presented by staff tonight. D. Miller commented that his thought was to try to offset the impact of the gas franchise fee but recognized the importance of the community building planning. He stated that in looking at his tax bill it has increased overall by $500 since 2019. T. Miller acknowledged the different factors involved and noted that much of it comes down to Ramsey County. She commented that she has made improvements to her home which have increased the value and taxes. She stated that the Council and staff have been thoughtful in planning for the future while remaining fiscally responsible and conservative in spending. Mayor Fischer commented that the Strategic Plan guides the dollars that are spent, and every dollar is scrutinized.. He recognized that costs have risen across the board. Kwapick appreciated the work that has gone into lowering contract services costs and commended staff for those efforts. He noted that new homes will be added to the tax base soon, which will also provide some relief. He encouraged residents to go to the County to challenge their assessed value if it does not seem right. Gutierrez commented that there is less visibility for residents in providing input to the County when the County considers its budget and the impact to residents. Mayor Fischer introduced the following resolution and moved its adoption: RESOLUTION NO. 2023-11-143 — ADOPTING THE 2023 TAX LEVY, COLLECTIBLE IN 2024 AS PRESENTED The foregoing resolution was duly seconded by T. Miller. Ayes (5). Nays (0). Resolution declared adopted. Co