01-23-2006 - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

Mounds View EDA January 23, 2006 Regular Meeting Page 5 have employees for. She asked Mr. McCarty what are the worst streets in Mounds View, noting that 75% of the streets in Mounds View are significantly in need of restructuring and every dollar that can be found to put on streets is applicable. Commissioner Thomas noted that for every dollar that can be used from TIF it will keep that dollar off the assessment rolls. She stated the City has been trying to find alternatives for ten years and to now find out there are expanded uses for the old TIF district pools should show residents the creativity of the City’s advisors to find new uses for TIF because the City is getting desperate. Commissioner Thomas stated that residents should find some joy in the City’s ability to find new uses for TIF. City Administrator Ulrich commented that traditionally TIF, as we have thought of it before, was not to be used for general fund purposes or street reconstruction in general. However, Mounds View has older districts with less restriction and because of that they can be used within the development district, which is defined as the entire City. Those funds can be used for infrastructure improvements throughout the entire City. He explained that opinion came from Ehlers & Associates when the City looked at the street projects in terms of maintenance and long term reconstruction. Stacie Kvilvang, Ehlers & Associates, explained that typically in TIF districts when creating new ones for economic redevelopment, renovation, renewal, housing, or redevelopment, you can use funds for road and utility improvements tied to that development. However, since several Mounds View TIF districts are pre-1990, there are not the restrictions on those districts. There is a different set of statutes governing those pre-1990 districts. Based on that, bond counsel concurred that the City can use pre-1990 TIF district funds for street reconstruction. Vice President Stigney asked if those funds can be used throughout the City. Ms. Kvilvang stated yes, that is correct. Mr. McCarty stated he understands that as well and was there when some of the districts were formed, but did not vote for them. He asked why, if there is so much money flowing around those districts, the City’s streets are in the condition they are in. He also asked how many TIF dollars are available that can be used City-wide on streets. City Administrator Ulrich stated there is a budget for TIF dollars that includes other needs beyond street reconstruction. He suggested staff bring back that budget, demonstrate the needs for TIF, and how much can be allocated towards street reconstruction. President Marty stated the City is also looking at how to improve the safety and redevelop County Highway 10 and the trailway systems along Silver Lake Road from New Brighton to County Highway 10. He advised that the EDA has talked about a percentage or how to allocate those dollars, noting there are more needs than available TIF. President Marty stated to Mr. Glidden that the EDA needs to move on instead of having this back and fourth discussion. Mr. Glidden asked if that is the definitive answer to the question he asked. He again asked if TIF