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LAKE ELMO CITY COUNCIL MINUTES MAY 15, 2012 Page 6 of 7 We believe that fiscal responsibility and the prudent stewardship of public funds, both short term and long term, are essential for citizen confidence in government. 5) Open and Honest Communication We believe that open and honest communication is essential for an informed and involved citizenry and fosters a positive working environment for employees. 6) Respect for the Individual We believe that citizens we serve are to be treated with courtesy and respect and deserve the best services the city can provide. 7) Professionalism We believe that continuous improvement is the mark of professionalism and we are committed to applying this principle to the services we offer and the development of our employees. 8) Thoughtful Community Building We believe in the development of our community through thoughtful, careful planning that is communicated in a positive manner that enhances the process. ITEM 12: SURFACE WATER UTILITY FEE APPEAL PROCESS/CREDIT POLICY City Administrator Zuleger explained the need has been discussed to create a formal appeal process and equitable credit policy for the city’s surface water utility fee schedule. He stated with input from the finance director, and after careful review of the surface water utility account, staff has crafted an ordinance based on the March 2012 direction of the council amending Section 53.04 of the Lake Elmo City Code pertaining to surface water management fee adjustment credit. He explained in detail the ordinance amendment, the unattended balances needing a formal review process, and specifically addressed the rain garden maintenance and specifications of the credit appeal process and the benefits. Council Members expressed their appreciation for City Administrator Zuleger addressing these concerns, his commitment and time spent with the residents and his work in bringing to fruition the ordinance amendment and new policy. MOTION: Council Member Pearson moved to Approve an Ordinance Amending Section 53.04 of the Lake Elmo City Code Pertaining to Surface Water Management Fee Adjustment Credit. Council Member Smith seconded the motion. The motion passed 5-0. ITEM 13: DISCUSSION OF LIBRARY FINANCING City Administrator Zuleger explained that last year when the city council made the decision to create a local library, staff was tasked with securing a building for the facility and securing the financing options for the purchase/lease. On May 9, 2012 the Library Board approved to pay back the funds in acquiring the building located at 3537 Lake Elmo Avenue North for use by the library within a two-year time period, by December of 2013. City Administrator Zuleger stated staff is recommending the council ratify the Lake Elmo Library Board motion to repay the City for facility bond funds used to purchase 3537 Lake Elmo Avenue North over a two year period by December 2013 to ensure the library has a place to conduct its business. The City will receive additional simple interest in the principal funds calculated by the LIBOR rate on the date of the purchase. Concerns were raised by Council Member Smith about whether the city would put something in place in the way of consequences or a penalty to ensure the city is paid back by the Library Board. Council Member Pearson stated the city has options to keep the board accountable to the agreement. City Attorney Snyder stated the council sets the library budget and has ultimate authority over the library’s budget. Mayor Johnston cited this fact in his support of the motion. MOTION: Council Member Pearson moved to Ratify the Lake Elmo Library Board motion to repay (using the allocated library levy) the City of Lake Elmo for facility bond funds used to purchase 3537 Lake Elmo Avenue North over a two year period by December 2013. The City of Lake Elmo will receive additional simple interest