04-11-2002 Charter Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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Charter Commission April 11, 2002 Page 2 4. Revenue Program. City Administrator Waite Smith reviewed the draft summary that was included in the memo for each of the program areas. She noted details may change based on further Council consideration. Mayor Bergeson stated another issue that puts some uncertainty into the Plan is the Comprehensive Plan that has not yet been approved by the Metropolitan Council. City Administrator Waite Smith stated the Metropolitan Council is extending their review period for another 60 days. Chair Montain stated the Plan is a big step forward for the City. Staff has done a lot of work. He reminded the Council that Subd. 6 states a summary of the Plan has to be published. City Administrator Waite Smith stated the Finance Director is aware of the publication requirement and the format relating to publication has been discussed. Chair Montain stated the Charter calls for the Five-Year Plan. He asked if staff feels that the Plan will be helpful after it is been updated a few times. City Administrator Waite Smith stated it is too early to tell. She stated the process of developing the Plan did tell her that the City will have to find different ways to accomplish the City's work because staff can't always be added. The Plan will stimulate a lot of discussion among directors. Councilmember Carlson stated she is very happy that the Plan is being completed because it allows the City to look at how projects will fit into the big plan. Councilmember Dahl stated she is also happy the Plan is being completed. The City can now plan ahead for purchases and know what equipment will be needed. The Charter requires the Plan and it had to be completed. The City can figure out what to do in the years ahead even with the changes in the legislature. City Administrator Waite Smith stated that people do need to understand that there are a lot of unknowns. This is a plan and guideline only and it may have to be changed due to the state law. The Finance Director is very concerned that people understand that. The Plan will need constant revision and will be updated every year. Chair Montain noted the Plan could be helpful when a project is coming up because the City can show the project had been in the Plan for many years. City Administrator Waite Smith stated the Plan can help sell a project but the projects may change as other projects may become more important. 2