08/28/1995 Council Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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17 August 1995 The Honorable Arne Carlson Governor of the State of Minnesota State Capital Building St. Paul, MN Dear Governor Carlson: At our August 14 meeting, the Lino Lakes City Council was required to authorize a Community Water Supply Plan. As you know, this plan was mandated during the 1993 Legislative Session with no provisions for funding established. Whereas we agree that certain initiatives coming down from governmental organizations may make sense, an accompanying funding sources is vital. As representatives of the citizens of Lino Lakes, we feel compelled to voice our concerns regarding the continued imposition of unfunded state mandates. As Governor, you are well aware of the burden placed upon the citizens of Minnesota as a consequence of unfunded federal mandates. The League of Minnesota Cities has, for the past two years, made the elimination of this practice one of its primary goals. Today's political climate is one where government is seen as big spending, and unresponsive to the real needs of its citizens. Economically, cuts in HACA and other state aids, coupled with mandates, force municipalities to raise taxes for initiatives that are not a priority for the community. Over the past several years, the Lino Lakes City Council has made great strides towards holding down spending and prioritizing the programs we provide to our residents. These efforts are often undermined however, when unexpected programs require us to pass our costs on to our residents.