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big budget surpluses. He stated that property taxes were relatively low, and the state was pumping money into local governments at significant rates. Senator Novak stated this all changed radically in the 1980's, when there was a reaction against the income tax, which was really priming the pump. He stated, however, people valued how these dollars were spent through state budgets, and that had to be restricted also. He stated that out of a combination of these, came some natural tensions between different levels of governments, and the interactions between governmental units. He stated he believed this was how this happened, as a transition in terms of a historical period of time, and relationships of one level of government to another. Senator Novak stated he thought this situation was getting better, and hoped that continues. He stated that all local levels of government are creatures of state government, and ideally all here to serve the same people. He stated they have different functions, but they all represent the same collective group of people in different combinations of jurisdictions. He stated their ability to coordinate their efforts, and get the best "bang for the buck," and deliver the most effective services for the least amount of money is what they all should be there to do. He stated he believed they all attempt to do this, however, the different philosophies and approaches on how they direct their efforts and sometimes result in conflict, which is why there are elections. He stated he thought this sentiment does exist, however, has lessened from its high point, and hopes they are moving forward in a positive way. Council Member Thomason stated she would echo Council Member Marty and Council Member Stigney's praises for Senator Novak's efforts in working with them on the Airport Legislation. She stated she looked forward to his continued effort. Senator Novak stated he appreciated the opportunity to work with the City of Mounds View. He stated he presently represented five different cities in the northern suburbs, and continued to be very proud of the north suburban area, and its ranking with the rest of the state. He stated that one of the real indicators of how well they were doing, was the level of voter participation. He stated they had an exceptional situation the prior year, with the election of Governor Ventura bringing out many new voters. He stated, historically, in the northern suburbs, the percentage of voters is extraordinarily high in comparison to the rest of the state. He stated, in addition, this area has polled its citizens to obtain their views regarding local governments, and the quality of life that they enjoy. He stated consistently, across the north suburban area, the people have indicated they have a high quality of life, and feel very well served by their different levels of government. Senator Novak stated he thought they should continue to work hard together, have their partisan battles if necessary, which he believes are very small in comparison to a much wider array of issues that they work on collectively in a bi-partisan manner. He stated if there is any message to be drawn from the last election, it is that people want government to get things done. He stated they wanted practical solutions to problems, a little less rhetoric, and a lot more action. He stated the more they could work together, the better off they would be. • 19 C:\ADMIN\MINUTES\CC\8-09-99.CC