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COUNCIL MINUTES DECEMBER 16, 1996 <br />various plans for the project site. He emphasized the importance of quality with regard to <br />this project, and reiterated the importance of tonight's decision. <br />Mr. Tagg explained that there is a conflict between two assessors regarding zoning <br />designations of his property. The residential assessor informed Mr. Tagg that he has 25 acres <br />homesteaded, and 3 acres commercial. The other assessor informed Mr. Tagg that 11.8 acres <br />are homesteaded, and 14.48 commercial. Using the first assessors figures, Mr. Tagg could <br />petition out of assessment on 25 acres of his property; however, Mr. Ahrens is using the <br />second assessor's figures, which would mean that if the project does not go forward Mr. Tagg <br />would be responsible for assessment on almost 15 acres. He wants to be sure that he can <br />petition out of assessment on 15 acres, especially if the project does not materialize. <br />Mayor Landers asked about the property designations that appear on the Taggs' annual tax <br />statement. Mr. Tagg responded that his property is only described as multi -levy; no <br />specification is made as to the numbers of acres per category. <br />Mr. Schumacher asked if Mr. Tagg's tax statement shows two different tax classifications. <br />Mr. Tagg responded that it indicates industrial and residential grades; however, he has been <br />under the impression that the acreage the taxes are currently based on is different from either <br />of the above possibilities. Mr. Schumacher suggested that the City should obtain correct <br />information from the County prior to assessment. <br />Mr. Wessel stated that he appreciates Mr. Tagg's cooperation in not wishing to hold up the <br />overall project. He added that the discrepancy between assessors should certainly be <br />resolved. Mr. Wessel also stated that he would recommend approval of the project with the <br />intention of working through the assessment contradiction. <br />Mr. Ahrens stated that his intention in taking County Assessor Mary Boyle's representation <br />of the Tagg property was to approach the issue conservatively with the knowledge that <br />finalization of the assessment would not take place until the assessment hearing. <br />Council Member Lyden asked who has authority to resolve this conflict, and what <br />responsibility the City has. Mr. Ahrens explained that the levy of taxes is ultimately the <br />responsibility of the City Council as final authority. <br />City Attorney Hawkins expressed confusion as to how there could have been a discrepancy. <br />He feels that an agreement will be forthcoming. <br />Mayor Landers asked if the necessary clarification could be accomplished prior to the <br />February 24, 1997 Council meeting. Mr. Ahrens stated that he feels it can be taken care of <br />prior to the next Council meeting in January. He added that he had hoped to have this issue <br />resolved prior to this evening's meeting, but was unable to contact the people involved. <br />Council Member Neal asked why Mr. Ahrens and Mr. Tagg couldn't go directly to the <br />County offices and resolve the issue personally. Council Member Neal sympathized with <br />Mr. Tagg's position. <br />Council Member Bergeson commented that the project as presented at this time is in good <br />order. He added that with respect to the Tagg property the number of acres will likely not be <br />an issue, as once the project is started he will probably sell the property very quickly. <br />20 <br />