02-11-1997 Charter Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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JOINT CHARTER COMMISSION AND CITY COUNCIL MEETING FEBRUARY 11, 1997 election date. Mayor Landers concurred and advised it costs a minimum of$3,000 to hold a special election. Council Member Kuether commented on the importance of not only the wording on the ballot but also the timing of the ballot. Commissioner Solfest stated it appears the Council has a determined what action is to be taken and asked what the Charter Commission can do to assist the process. Mr. Hawkins advised the wording of the ballot is regulated by the Charter. Council Member Bergeson inquired regarding the standing of the Charter Commission. Chair Montain stated he believes roads are a very important issue but appears to have been ignored with regard to reconstruction. He stated the Charter contains a means to address this. Mr. Hawkins stated if one-third of the cost is to be assessed, $1 million will still be needed to be generated and funded now. He explained how the ballot will need to be worded and asked if those present believe that such a referendum will be successful. If not successful, the funds will still need to be generated. With regard to the impact to residents and their support, Mr. Schumacher asked if it is realistic to go through this process or if it is totally unfeasible. He advised Mr. Ahrens has prepared information regarding this tax impact. Mr. Ahrens explained that to raise $100,000 per year, based on the present tax base, a home valued at $100,000 would pay an additional $15.73 per year and a home valued at $200,000 would pay an additional $40.31. To generate $1 million a year, a home valued at $100,000 would pay $160.00 and a home valued at $200,000 would pay $410.00. Council Member Bergeson stated that when the Council reviewed the City's budget, they considered raising taxes by $50,000 and $100,000 for other issues and neither the previous Council or this Council was willing to raise taxes. However, this project talks about several times that amount. He stated he supports placing this issue on the ballot to let residents make that determination. Commissioner Dunn stated the City generates increased revenues every year without a levy increase and if fixed costs can be contained or reduced, a portion of that additional revenue ($3/4 million last year) could be allocated to roadway improvement. He asserted the money is there but it depends on where the Council places the priority. Commissioner Dunn stated there are a lot of ways to get funds rather than a large referendum before the residents, and it is the responsibility of staff and the Council to look into that detail. Council Member Lyden stated the amount spent on street PAGE 8