10-13-1992 CC - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

• Mounds View City Council Page Eleven •gular Meeting — October 13, 1992 fee would be very hard on senior citizens. If the property taxes are increased there is a circuit breaker that aids residents in getting some of the money back. White suggested the franchise fee be eliminated from the franchise agreement. Terry Wiley, 2279 Oakwood Drive, stated that contrary to the other 25 people in the room he thinks that the residents have to pay for services received from the City. The City needs a certain number of dollars to run the City. The funds have to come from somewhere. Wiley suggested leaving all options open. If the City does not leave all options open regaz ding the fr-nchise fee and the City doesn't have options they can't use them. Charlie Hall, Mermaid Supper Club, stated that the residents of the community are crying out for help with regards to not implementing the franchise fee and he hopes the Council hears them. Mr. Hall stated that the City Administrator is a nice person to work with, the Mayor has met with him several times and is a tribute to the City. Mr. Hall hopes that the Council listens to the business community and the residents and does not implement the franchise fee. Chuck Miller, 2408 Laport asked about levy limits. Mayor Linke explained that the City has no control over property taxes. The County has control on property valuation and the State sets how much of the rates are charged against that. This amount affects what the City levies. Orduno explained why the City must look for alternative means of revenue and not be dependent on local government aids. Mr. Miller stated that the City must adjust spending. Miller stated that persons at his company have not had a raise in three years. Orduno gave another example of mandates on the City -- the 6.5% sales tax. This was not something budgeted for. Linke stated that the City during the budget process looks into not only property taxes but license fees and various other revenue sources for the City. The franchise fee would be looked at during the budget process just as the other revenues are. Laurie Schley, Knollwood Drive stated that she objects to having NSP collecting the franchise fee. Schley stated that people should pay for services. NSP treats her very well. Schley believes that the City should not have a third party collecting funds for the City's General Fund budget. Schley states that by having the • property tax increase it makes the residents of the City responsible customers of the City budget.