01/22/1990 Council Minutes (2) - Laserfiche WebLink

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COUNCIL MINUTES JANUARY 22, 1990 Agreement. Mr. Bennett referred to a letter dated April 23, 1986 regarding the computation of assessments for the affected properties. Mayor Bisel asked that assessments be referred to the city hall. This meeting tonight only addresses users rates, not assessments. Mr. Bennett referred to the Joint Powers Agreement page two (2) section 5 A regarding installing, maintaining and reading water meters. He noted that Lino Lakes has done none of this. He explained that he and his neighbors feel that they are being penalized for using the Blaine utility system. Mayor Bisel said that this Council is trying to be fair and charge all Lino Lakes residential sewer and water users the same rates. Mr. Bennett told the Council that he would like his rates to remain the same as he has been paying the City of Blaine. Council Member Neal noted that this City is trying to make the change as easy as possible by spreading the rate increase over a two year period. Dennis Kohler, 7141 Sunrise Drive asked about where it says that the City cannot charge more than the value of the property. Mayor Bisel said that matter was discussed at the public hearing. Mr. Bennett asked if the City was subsidizing the sewer and water system? Mr. Schumacher explained that a rate study was completed about a year and one half ago and rates were adjusted at that time to prevent the utility system from being subsidized by the General Fund. He again noted that the City Charter states that each enterprise is to be self supporting. Council Member Kuether asked what the City of Blaine charges for the same services. Mr. Schumacher explained. Mr. Bennett said in private business this would be called gross profiteering. Council Member Reinert asked Mr. Bennett what he would have the Council do on this matter? Mr. Bennett said he wanted the City to provide a service. Council Member Reinert asked what Mr. Bennett would have the Council do in light of the City Charter? Mr. Bennett asked when the Charter was approved. It was noted in 1982. Council Member Reinert said that the Council cannot disobey the Charter. He further explained that Mr. Bennett was asking for preferential treatment under the Charter. Mr. Bennett asked why should the residents along Sunset Road subsidize the Lino Lakes utility system? Mayor Bisel said the Council must operate within the law. Council Member Bohjanen explained that this could be discussed all night but the same conclusion would be reached.