12/15/1997 Council Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Search

COUNCIL MINUTES DECEMBER 15, 1997 The people have a right to know. The citizens have a right to a voice. The 20/20 Vision document calls three times for "Citizen input." I have come here tonight to as a first step. I ask that this letter be incorporated into the minutes. I thank you for your service to the City of Lino Lakes. (signed by Donna Carlson) Mayor Landers requested that Mr. Wessel comment regarding notification of meetings referred to in Ms. Carlson's letter, and that Ms. Carlson then present her proposals for ways in which the process can be improved. Mr. Wessel stated that the entire Comprehensive Plan process has always been very open and participatory, with return to the affected neighborhoods following each meeting. He added that diversified housing has always been a goal, and that as a demonstration project the Village will be used as an example for future development in other areas of the community. In any event, the entire process is very new; and, Mr. Wessel explained, any way in which the task force groups can be more communicative is open to suggestion. Ms. Carlson stated that unfortunately most citizens do not attend the Comprehensive Plan meetings, due in part to the expectation that they would not have an opportunity to participate and provide input. She indicated awareness that the Plan meetings have been sufficiently advertised. She reiterated the need for a citizens academy, and that the CAG should take definite steps to inform the community. Ms. Carlson expressed concern over reference to "targets" for city growth. She repeated her goal through CAG to bring citizens into the process. Council Member Lyden recommended bringing this issue to a work session. Council Member Neal requested clarification about low-income housing. Ms. Carlson indicated that Mr. Wessel's explanation was that low-income housing was originally intended only for the Village. However, she expressed concern about specific types of housing for specific areas of the community, and that the public must be notified about plans for their neighborhoods. Mr. Wessel explained that the CAG is represented on the Comprehensive Plan committee, and invited participation by Ms. Carlson and any other CAG and/or community representatives. FINANCE DEPARTMENT REPORT, MARY VASKE Consideration of Resolution No. 97 - 171 Adopting the Final 1997 Tax Levy, Collectable in 1998 Ms. Vaske explained that following considerable review, the budget is being presented for adoption. Resolution No. 97 - 171 represents consideration of adopting the final 1997 tax levy collectable in 1998. Pursuant to State Statute this final levy, which includes total general 4