01-14-98 Council Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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MINUTES CITY COUNCIL JANUARY 14, 1998 Weissner further reported that the County is building a new juvenile detention center which will more than double the size of the existing facility. They are also trying to find a new location for the adult detention center since they cannot expand at the cwrent location. Alternatives are being looked at and a final decision should be made within the next three months. Another project is to find a location for a new emergency shelter for homeless families. The current site at the Lowery Hotel will be redeveloped, and the County's lease at this site will not be renewed after the year 2000. The County is proposing that the State help fund this project since it is an urban issue and not solely a County issue. Eleven potential sites are being evaluated. The County is also planning for transportation, including transit. An update of the County's transportation plan will involve input from communities in the County. Light rail transit and commuter rail are being considered. Existing railroad tracks are being looked at, and one possible stop for a commuter rail system may be in Little Canada. The City will be involved in the process as it unfolds. The earliest completion date for this project would be 2005. Weissner updated the Council on improvements that have been made in the County's Property Tax Department. These involve hiring of a new director, establishment and update of policies as well as new checks and balances. Welfare reform is another issue being worked on at a County level. State and Federal laws have mandated the County to implement changes. People must now get jobs in order to continue on public assistance. The County is workin~ to help these recipients become self-sufficient. One of the things being considered is the development often resource hubs around the area that will provide public information, training, and day care assistance. Weissner noted the merger of the St. Pau] and County Health Departments that occurred at the end of 1997. Weissner felt that this merger was not funded fairly given that it cost suburban taxpayers an additional $10 per household while reduced taxes for St. Paul property owners by approximately $10 per household. However, the County and St. Paul are working to make sure that services are provided in the most economical way possible, and some cost-saving measures have already been identified.