12/01/1993 Council Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Search

33U TRUTH IN TAXATION PUBLIC HEARING DECEMBER 1, 1993 Mayor Reinert again explained that unless there was a change on the property that would increase the value of the property, the proposed levy for 1994 will not increase the property taxes for any property owner. Mayor Reinert asked if there were any other questions. There were none. Mr. Schumacher asked if anyone was present who resides in the White Bear School District. He noted that because of a school bond referendum, property taxes on property in that school district will increase. Mayor Reinert noted that everyone hates taxes. However, if a city of similar size in the north metropolitan area is compared to Lino Lakes, the cost of services for Lino Lakes is lower than the average of those cities. He noted that taxes in Lino Lakes are high, however, the City Council is seeking a better balance of residential taxes and commercial taxes. Mayor Reinert explained that at one time, Lino Lakes was rated number three in the entire state. That meant that only two other cities had property taxes higher than Lino Lakes. Now Lino Lakes is rate 45th in the state. Mayor Reinert also emphasized that the City Council is attempting to diversify the tax base by increasing the commercial and industrial tax base. He explained several projects under construction and some that will be within the next year that will greatly affect the tax base. Mayor Reinert explained that most homes do not carry their weight in taxes. That means that not enough tax revenue is generated from residential property to pay the high cost of education, public safety and other services required by that home. The only way that the tax burden can be lessened for a home owner is to increase the industrial and commercial tax base. Mayor Reinert noted that the Economic Development Coordinator has been very busy introducing Lino Lakes to potential businesses. Three new businesses have already located or will be locating on the west side of Lino Lakes and one new business is in the construction process on the east side of the City. Mayor Reinert said that the City Council will continue to work in this area to try and lessen the tax burden for home owners. There were no other comments from the audience. Mr. Schumacher explained that the City Council will adopt the 1994 Operating Budget and 1991 levy collectable in 1994 at the December 13, 1993 regular City Council meeting. He noted that additional questions regarding the proposed 1994 Operating Budget or the proposed levy can be raised at that time. PAGE 4 1 1 1