08-28-2024 Council Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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MINUTES CITY COUNCIL AUGUST 28, 2024 operation and budget with a levy for the HRA and reviewed the programming that is funded by the HRA levy. He provided data on the HRA levy investment by City, noting that Little Canada ranked second in 2023 for the most money received and provided more information on the Little Canada spend profile from all funding sources during the period of 2021-2023. He referenced the new housing sales tax and stated that they would be happy to come back and share the plans of the County, acknowledging that the City will also receive its own allocation from the sales tax. He reviewed the 2024 legislative request from the County related to allowing the HRA to expand its authority to better support diversifying industries, communities and emerging entrepreneurs. He noted that the request was not approved in the last legislative session, but the County will continue to pursue that request. Chong Xiong recognized that Commissioner McGuire is the City's representative but was unable to attend. She noted a member of her staff that is available, should residents wish to connect with her. She also recognized the work that Commissioner McGuire has done to represent Ramsey County well. Mayor Fischer referenced the legislation that did not pass and asked if it was voted down or did not pass committee. Chong Xiong commented that did not pass committee, noting that many legislators were unsure why the action would be needed as they felt there was another path. She explained why that alternative path would not be an option. She noted that the legislators also wanted to see more support for the action and therefore they will work to show more support from the community partners. Olson commented that because they did not make it out of committee, they were unsure if it would have been included in a bill. He stated that in their opinion it is better to have the additional year to work on the details and speak with their community partners. He stated that they will also be able to pilot some programs that would build resiliency in the small business community. The City Administrator acknowledged that the city has worked hard for the affordable housing projects that received funding. He referenced the Open to Business program, which took a pause during the pandemic. He noted that prior to the pandemic, Little Canada was going to be a site for open hours of that program and asked if the County would be open to including Little Canada as a site. Olson confirmed that he could speak with that staff member to consider using Little Canada city hall. He noted that they recently added another staff member in that division which will expand their abilities. CONSENT AGENDA T. Miller introduced the following resolution and moved its adoption; WHIC01- CONTAINS THE FOLLOWING: • Approval of the Vouchers • Approve Reapportionment for Levied Assessment on 99 South Owasso Boulevard West • Approve Partial Pay Request No. 2 for 2024 Sanitary Sewer Lining Project The foregoing resolution was duly seconded by Kwapick. Ayes (5). Nays (0). Resolution declared adopted. l