12-15-10 Council Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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MINUTES CITY COUNCIL DECEMBER 15, 2010 have increased by approximately 115% in that time, from $912 to $2,004 proposed for 2011. The City Administrator indicated that the increase is primarily a function of the increase in value due to the sales ratio, in that house values are adjusted by the County when a sale occurs. Keis indicated that he is hearing that Mr. Shoup would like better communication and more information on the budget. Keis stated that the City can put more information on the Web site. He also indicated that he is hearing that Mr. Shoup feels there should be more planning as part of the budget process. Keis stated that the fact that planning was not discussed as part of the Truth In Taxation hearing does not mean that the City has not done any planning. Keis pointed out that the Council has held multiple budget workshops which are open to the public and at which planning was the focus. Keis also indicated that there is a listing in place and will serve as a contingency plan should the need arise to make additional budget adjustments. The City Administrator noted that while the City does not have a formal document that can serve as a contingency plan, it does have a list of areas that can be targeted for budget reductions /adjustments, if necessary. He pointed out that the City is very lightly staffed to begin with. I -Ie noted that police and fire protection are contracted services. The Administrator stated that there are options that can be implemented to reduce the budget, but with those options come consequences. There could be further reductions made in City staff, but pointed out that as a reimbursing employer, the City would be liable for unemployment compensation the result of which is less staff yet the City would still be incurring costs. The Administrator noted that opportunities for cost reductions present themselves over time, and the City is always on the look out for these opportunities as well as different service methods that would reduce costs. The Administrator acknowledged Shoup's concerns, and is always mindful of costs and looking for ways to reduce costs. The Administrator pointed out that the City has the highest bond rating it can have for a city its size and that reduces interest costs. The Administrator also noted that the City absorbed $400,000 in LGA reductions the last four years. Although the City had the ability to levy these cuts back, it chose not to. The Council's goal has been to maintain financial stability. Shoup stated that his concern is fiscal sustainability. The Administrator reported that that is the City's concern as well, and pointed out that the goal is to provide basic services. The Administrator stated that cuts have been made, and there are no easy cuts out there. He indicated that we are in a "new normal and all cities are dealing with these issues. However, Little Canada has been fortunate and has a strong fiscal base. The 7