02-19-1998 Charter Minutes (2) - Laserfiche WebLink

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Charter Commission February 19, 1998 Page 2 Council Member Lyden expressed his view that the Charter has always been effective whether or not issues pass, and agreed that additional avenues may be appropriate. Mayor Sullivan expressed her concern that with the Charter having been in existence for such a long time the City should have had some type of funding in place for reconstruction projects whether or not election issues pass. She indicated that the current City Council needs to address this funding issue, and that it would work with the Finance Department to seek a satisfactory solution. Future Plans, 1998 and Beyond - Mr. Ahrens explained that in 1998 all roads on the east side of Reshanau Lake, and projects beyond that will have to be brought before the public. Chair Montain asked if it is anticipated that the approved projects will be completed within 1998, to which Mr. Ahrens responded they should be. Chair Montain asked if the City had been contacted by neighborhood residents following the election. Mr. Ahrens indicated that very few contacts had been made, and that everyone seemed happy with the results. Commissioner Trehus asked about the impact of the $1.7 million project on taxpayers. Mr. Ahrens was not prepared to produce figures, and Ms. Vaske added that the Financial Department is currently sorting through 1998 allocations. Commissioner Trehus stated that the intent of the Charter is not to allow for use of City general fund money for road reconstruction without public approval. Chair Montain clarified that generally dedicated funds cannot be used in that manner. Mayor Sullivan opined that the Charter does not prohibit such use. She added her interpretation that if the City can find funds that do not come from general fund tax dollars, it has the option to use such funds. Chair Montain asked if reconstruction needs identified for the 1999 budget would become viable projects for the year 2000. Mayor Sullivan turned the question to Mr. Ahrens, asking when he foresaw the next phase of road reconstruction. Mr. Ahrens indicated that there is an immediate need, but that it takes approximately 1-1/2 years to implement a project following its inception. He added his recommendation that the City move immediately into the next phase. Ms. Vaske explained the impact of a$2 million bond as a$29 increase in taxes for the owner of a $100,000 home, $43 for a $150,000 home, and $72 for a$200,000 home. Mayor Sullivan made the general comment that the road reconstruction bond is not the only bond that will come before Lino Lakes. Therefore, there is a need to look not only at when road reconstruction is necessary but also at when funds will be available. 2