02-11-1997 Charter Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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F JOINT CHARTER COMMISSION AND CITY COUNCIL MEETING FEBRUARY 11, 1997 maintenance, as a percentage of the overall budget, has actually deceased even though the needs have increased. Commissioner Bening said it does not matter if the Charter is changed or if the project is funded by the City, the money still needs to be raised and it comes down to the issue of facing the public and asking for the money. Commissioner Trehus suggested it is not very "up front" to go to the pubic and request money for only one project but, on the other hand, to advise the public of all the projects may "freak them out." He suggested a comprehensive plan be considered that prorates the costs. Commissioner Trehus stated there needs to be one plan which addresses funding for all phases. Council Member Kuether stated her assumption is that the rationale is to test the Charter to prove whether or not it will work. Chair Montain stated all appear to agree this would be the first phase of a multiple- phase road improvement project. Council Member Lyden stated that the determining factor of whether the Charter "works" cannot be based on whether or not you get what you want. Chair Montain asked about a plan and schedule and stated it appears the first phase should be work identified in Phase 2 with the schedule revised to match the General Election. He stated the Charter Commission has been supportive of the Council in its road reconstruction efforts. Chair Montain polled other Charter Commissioners for their input. Commissioner Trehus commented on the study prepared by Commissioner Dunn. Commissioner Dunn stated 15 Charter cities were researched regarding how they funded road improvements and it was found all had a mechanism to fund road improvements with the blessing of the residents. He reported on a comment received that the Lino Lakes Charter stifles development. He advised another community established a revolving bond program to address the need for road reconstruction. Commissioner Dunn stated it appears the Lino Lakes Charter was uniquely created and worded so he would like to talk with the originators regarding their intent. Council Member Bergeson commented on placing a multi-year plan on the ballot. He stated while he agrees with that concept, he is unsure what would be placed on years two, three, and four since it would include roads that have no sewer. He noted the need to address utilities along with reconstruction. Mr. Hawkins said if general fund monies are to be used, the authority is still needed. He reviewed options for wording the ballot and the need to determine whether a specific project should be identified. PAGE 9