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Mounds View City Council December 13, 1999 Regular Meeting Page 7 He stated this is a prestigious position, held by only two or three Minnesotans over the last 70 years. City Administrator Whiting reported he had met with the Council at retreat, which was held at the Northland Inn, in Brooklyn Center, the previous Tuesday evening. He indicated the purpose of this meeting was to review the upcoming year, and to incorporate some teamwork into their efforts. He stated each individual of the group mentioned the issues they felt were important at this time, and in the upcoming year. He noted one suggestion, which should come to fruition in the within the next two to three months, was the unanimous agreement to hold a City Council Board and Commission Appreciation Dinner, to review some of the issues that affect the Commissions and the Board in general. He explained that at the League of Minnesota Cities Conference last year, Council Member Stigney won $1,000 for the City, and he has indicated his desire to contribute to the cost of this dinner. City Administrator Whiting stated he and the Council Members examined other issues they will pursue within the upcoming weeks and months. He noted some discussion with regard to land use development, related to the area surrounding the golf course, and the area south of Highway 118, extending to the eastern border of the community. He stated this area was discussed in terms of how it is impacted by the wetlands, and the interest that has come forward regarding development of the area. City Administrator Whiting stated there was discussion of the trail system and park improvements, and from these topics stemmed discussion pertaining to determining effective • ways to serve the community in the upcoming year, and the issues presented with Highway 10, and its impact on the community. He explained that City finances were also discussed, mcludmg the budget, and the use of TIF funds, and there was some emphasis upon the housing stock, and how it is shaping in relation to other communities in the Metropolitan area. Council Member Stigney stated there was consideration of a raise for the City Council, which idea he is strongly opposed to, however, he felt this subject should be brought forward, as it was also discussed at the Council/City Administrator Retreat. Mayor Coughlin stated this matter had been brought forward in the form of a suggestion, as well as a suggestion of a possible meager stipend to offset the costs of time and gas for commission members. He advised however, these matters would not be decided at retreats, but rather at official functions, such as Council Meetings. He pointed out that these proceedings are a public document, and any interested parties may request copies from City Administrator Whiting. City Attorney Long advised that a meeting will be held in Senator Novak's office at 11:15 on Thursday, to discuss legislative strategy relating to the airport issue, and to assist in the forward progress of this matter. He indicated State Representative Haake will attend this meeting, and there should be an interesting discussion in this regard. Mayor Coughlin added he would also be attending this meeting. City Attorney Long stated the meeting that was held in Council Chambers on Monday pertaining . to environmental impacts, has led to a series of new points to discuss, as relate to legislation and the merits of expanding the runway. He explained that the current discussion pertains to the removal of approximately 150 acres of wetland to make room for the runway, however, this was