11-12-97 Council Workshop Minutes

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MINUTES CITY COUNCIL NOVEMBER 12, 1997 Fahey again indicated that he would prefer to reduce the net levy by $3,100 than buy down the net levy with future debt reductions. LaValle and Pedersen agreed. Fahey suggested that the Administrator look for ways to make the reduction, but if a buy-down is necessary, then that is how the City would achieve the 0% net levy increase. Morelan and Scalze agreed. Council next reviewed the Cable TV Fund. The Cable TV Producer reviewed the equipment purchases he would like to make in 1998 pointing out specifically the additional camera he would like to purchase for the Council Chambers. The Producer explained how this camera would improve the quality of broadcasts allowin~ him to switch between close- up shots. Fahey questioned the need for an additional camera and asked about the source of funds supporting the Cable TV Budget. The City Administrator informed the Council that the Cable TV Fund is supported solely from the City's share of Cable TV franchise fees. Under the Joint Powers A~reement governing the ten cities that are members of the North Suburban Access Corporation, franchise fee revenue is to be used in the cable area. There are some transfers of these funds to the General Fund to reimburse some salaries and overhead. Any yearly surplus would build the balance in the CATV Fund. Fahey asked what happens to franchise fees that are not spent. The City Administrator replied that the City could also be more aggressive in the amount that is transferred to the General Fund. The Deputy Clerk reported that the City's Cable TV revenue is to be used to promote community television. The Clerk pointed out that the Access Corporation will be discussing the Joint Powers Agreement during 1998, and these discussions could include the possibility of broadening the use of franchise fees. The Cable TV Producer explained the various broadcasts which occur from the Council Chambers pointing out that the additional camera will improve the quality of these broadcasts. The Producer also explained the other improvements he is proposing including the change in monitors in the Council Chambers to improve the audiences view of overheads, etc. The Administrator reviewed the General Capital Improvement Fund, pointed out that there is no capital improvement levy proposed for 1998 and 1999 due to the City's previously adopted debt reduction program. The Administrator projected a surplus of $46,886 in the ~eneral fund at