11-30-94 Council Special Minutes

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MINUTES CITY COUNCIL NOVEt+IBER 30, 1994 Remerowski felt the Legislature would listen to whomever talks the loudest, and suggested that City officials spend a week at the Legislature. Remerowski felt that Legislators were not listening to the public. The Administrator suggested that Legislators will ask how property tax reform should be accomplished. A source of funding that people agree is equitable is difficult to come by. Remerowski felt that the sales tax and income tax were just taxes. Aowever, property taxes were not. Morelan pointed out that prior to the election candidates have all talked about property tax reform. Morelan stated that it will be interesting to see what the elected officials will do. Morelan agreed that the question is what can be done to make the property tax system more just. Basing property taxes on income levels will shift the burden to the Metro area because that is where the higher incomes are. Steele reported that he has a fixed income and any increase in his property taxes takes away from his ability to spend his income on other things. The Administrator reported that the City's total 1995 Budget is $6.3 million, and the City is levying $1.8 million. The City collects a lot of money from sources other than property taxes. The Administrator reported that the City Council has done a good job holding the line this year and for the past several years, thereby minimizing the impact to property owners. The City is doing what it can do, but does not control the other components. Hanson suggested that if any property owners would like information on who to contact with regard to appealing property valuations, or forms for filing for refunds, they should contact City offices. waite suggested that the City bring in area Legislators for a town meeting on property taxes. I~Ianson agreed that this could be pursued. The City Administrator again reported that this evening is the City's Truth in Taxation Iiearing. The Council 10