12-08-25 - City Council Meeting Minutes

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Lino Lakes City Council Minutes Jeff Johnson, 6965 Sunrise Drive, Lino Lakes, stated that he has seen a 25% increase in the city portion of taxes on his home. He questioned the number of city projects including the water treatment plant and planned public works building. He questioned how many of the city projects had construction cost increases over the original estimate. He questioned why the city didn't have a resource recovery program for used equipment such as generators and used fitness equipment from the Rookery. He noted that the city recently sold some fire vehicles for a cheap price. He noted the costs associated with operating the Rookery. Mr. Johnson stated that he had a separate item from the budget and levy to address, which is Item #713 — Lino Lakes Dealership and Offices, he stated that he does not have anything against a used car lot and that he would rather see that development then the farm next to the Legion, for which the city takes in limited revenue. He stated that he also doesn't have anything against the community garden, but the city spends a lot of money on that for 50 people, for something that doesn't benefit the rest of the community. Diane Lawrenance, 1835 77th Street East, Lino Lakes, stated that there are 10 homes on her block. She stated that she has a septic system and well, so she does not receive benefit from the municipal utilities. She stated that when she first moved in, she paid a park dedication fee, yet there isn't a park close to her home. She stated that her land value is impacted by a wetland and an electric line that has a non -buildable area below it. She stated that it may be more of a question for the Anoka County Assessor, but she is trying to understand the reasons for the increases in her property valuation. She commented that first responders, as outlined in the budget, are necessary. The Mayor requested that she provide her contact information to staff for a follow-up call regarding the questions raised and assessment process. Tim Lake, 6781 Shadow Lake Drive, Lino Lakes, stated that he is retired. He reviewed the increases in property taxes over the past several years. He reviewed the property valuation increases on his property as well. He stated that he does not believe the property valuation system is fair as his property is the same as others and yet, the value has gone up significantly. He stated that while inflation may be cited as a reason for increases in the budget, he believes it is because the city is doing more and more things and he does not believe those things bring additional value to him as a taxpayer. Katie Bowen, 2016 Otter Lake Drive, Lino Lakes, stated that she is speaking on behalf of her neighbors who live along the lake and have seen dramatic increases in property valuations by the Anoka County Assessor. She stated that her taxes based on the valuation of her home were $5,000 in 2020 and are now $10,000 in 2025. She stated that some of her neighbors are on a fixed income as they are retired. She asked when the increases were going to end. Page 4 of 11