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MINUTES <br />CITY COUNCIL <br />DECEMBER 15, 2010 <br />the lowest are very close in rankings. The Administrator pointed out that <br />the Council's goal in setting the tax levy has been to be responsible and <br />accountable as well as provide for tax stability. The Administrator pointed <br />out that the City has appropriate reserve balances, and could use reserves <br />to buy down the levy, however, that is one time money. He also noted that <br />the reason the levy is increasing for 2011 is because of the addition of the <br />fire truck and equipment funding, implementing a long term solution to <br />this capital equipment need. <br />Dennis Shoup, Twin Lake Road, agreed with Mr. Erdmanis comments. <br />He suggested that the City put more budget information on its Web site. <br />Shoup indicated that he felt that the budget presentation made this evening <br />was underwhelming and its primary focus was on making comparisons. <br />Shoup suggested that the City needed to do more contingency planning <br />relative to cuts and /or service decreases that may be necessary in the <br />future. <br />Blesener pointed out that over 50% of the City's budget goes toward <br />public safety, therefore, a large portion of the budget is comprised of <br />essential service costs. Shoup felt that the City should have a plan in place <br />should it be necessary to minimize or decrease essential services. <br />Blesener noted that when the Legislature made LGA unallotments earlier <br />this year, the Council and City staff worked to identify budget adjustments <br />and service decreases. Some of these adjustments were implemented at <br />that time. <br />Shoup noted the various levels of government, and pointed out that it is at <br />the local level that decisions are made that impact property owners <br />directly. Shoup stated that as part of the City's budget presentation he <br />would have preferred to see information on what the City's priorities are, <br />rather than just comparisons. Shoup felt that making comparisons does <br />not show whether or not the City is functioning as well as it can. Shoup <br />again stated that the City needs to have a plan in place to address such <br />contingencies as less LGA, a poor economy, etc. <br />Montour restated the Mayor's earlier comments that the Council reviewed <br />options earlier this year and has a listing of items that can be cut or <br />modified should the need arise. McGraw stated that the Council has <br />discussed a number of possibilities over the past year. The Council's first <br />objection has been to cut spending, and, if necessary, will move on to <br />reductions in services. <br />Shoup commented that the Council has done a commendable job. He <br />noted, however, that he purchased his home four years ago and the taxes <br />6 <br />