09-07-95 Council Workshop Minutes

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MINOTES CITY COUNCIL SEPTEt4BER 7, 1995 years. Scalze asked how much water and sewer rates have increased durinq this same time period. Fahey stated that liquor license fees are really a sin tax. Fahey asked if the fee should be what the market will bear or should it be reasonably related to the services provided to the establishment. Scalze asked what the City has done with other license fees. The City Administrator replied that building permit fees have increased due to changes in the UBC. Electrical and plumbing permit fees have also increased. The City recently increased the pawn shop license fee quite dramatically. Morelan indicated that based on the survey, the City should definitely look at the issue. Morelan stated, however, that he was reluctant to take action this evening without public input. LaValle felt that increasing liquor license fees was just another form of taxation. Fahey pointed out that these liquor businesses also pay property taxes, therefore, they are entitled to a certain amount of services. Morelan pointed out that the Council looked at this issue a year aqo, but based on the information provided at that time, did not take action. More up-to-date information has now been provided. LaValle suggested that taxi license fees be increased to $100. LaValle pointed out that these taxi businesses are paying no property taxes. Morelan stated that he would like to know how many of the taxi businesses the City licenses are housed in Little Canada. Fahey asked what assurance the City is giving to the public that these taxi operators are reputable people with safe driving records. Morelan asked the City's liability in issuing these licenses. The Administrator reported that he is recommending that the cigarette license fee be increased from $25 to $50. The Administrator pointed out the cost of processing 4