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Mounds View City Council January 11, 2010 Regular Meeting Page 4 Dan Mueller, 8343 Groveland Road, stated he understands that all investors have lost money • over the past several years due to the economic downturn. He indicated it was dif�cult for him to understand why the State would be reimbursing State employee's pension funds, wlule the rest of the State's residents suffer. Mr. Mueller encouraged the State to use the funds provided wisely and drop all of the bantering between parties. Representative Tillberry indicated he has the same financial concerns as all residents in the State of Minnesota. He explained that the Senators and Representatives are ordinary people with jobs, families, and the same stresses. Senator Betzold stated he was a lawyer and he would be better served financially by following his trade than through the public service he provided his constituents. He indicated the State has to make some very difficult decisions this session due to the current economic challenges. Mike Read, 2208 Lois Drive questioned if the State of Minnesota could continue to support welfare programs for out-of-state residents that move to Minnesota. Senator Betzold explained that these were partial State and Federal funds. He stated there were just as many people coming into the State as were leaving the State, and added that this was a small percentage of the overall budget. Senator Betzold further reviewed how the past surplus situations directly led to the current economic crisis. Council Member Stigney stated many retirees continue to lose services whether they are State employees or not. He asked that the extra protection given to State employees be dropped. Senator Betzold indicated he is not suggesting that the State bailout its pension program, but that those who are dedicated to public service do deserve to retire after a life of service. • Council Member Stigney questioned if the governor felt a responsibility for the current and future economic condition of the State. Senator Betzold explained that the legislature only had a constitutional responsibility for the current biennium, and that the governor does as well. However, both parties are concerned about the current and future condition of the State. Representative Tillberry noted there was a sense of responsibility for all the parties involved as the demographics of the State continues to change and there is an increasing need for State funds. The State will need to reform government to meet the changing needs. Council Member Mueller asked if the State could recover the tax concessions made in previous years if Northwest Airlines moved their headquarters from Minneapolis. Senator Betzold explained that because Northwest Airlines filed bankruptcy, they were able to get out of some of their financial obligations. He noted that the merge with Delta allowed Northwest Airlines to shed many of the responsibilities within the t� concessions. Council Member Mueller questioned how the unemployment rate could be improved to help the economy. Senator Betzold indicated the bonding bill would fund various "shovel ready" projects to assist in stimulating the State. He noted the Vikings Stadium would also be a topic of discussion and the legislature needs to take another look at the corporate t� structure to close loopholes. Senator Betzold indicated there were a lot of ideas going around at this time. •