12-04-2023 TNT - Laserfiche WebLink

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Mounds View City Council December 4, 2023 Truth in Taxation Meeting Page 2 discussed how the proposed levy would impact the median value home owner and asked for comments or questions from the City Council. Valerie Amundsen, 3048 Woodale Drive, requested comment from staff regarding last year’s levy compared to the proposed levy. She asked what the levy increase was last year. Finance Director Bauman provided Ms. Amundsen with further information on the General Fund budget for 2023 and 2024. She noted that the preliminary maximum levy that was approved in September was 7.54%. Ms. Amundsen reminded the Council that 40% of Mounds View’s population was seniors. She urged the Council to keep this in mind when proposing tax increases, noting these yearly increases were impacting seniors on a fixed budget. While she fully supported the City having a top of the line police department, she questioned if everything the City purchased had to be top of the line. Brian Amundsen, 3048 Woodale Drive, questioned if the proposed 6.5% levy increase included all of the other services. Finance Director Bauman reported this was the case. Council Member Meehlhause questioned how much longer the fire bonds would be in place. City Administrator Zikmund reported these bonds would be in place until 2026. Judy Yellowstrand, 2071 Pinewood Drive, stated she did not have access to the budget presentation on her computer. She asked if the levy would increase 8.5% or 6.5%. Finance Director Bauman clarified the overall levy increase is proposed to be 6.5% or less. Further discussion ensued regarding how the proposed levy had decreased from the preliminary levy that was approved in September. Ms. Yellowstrand questioned what the police officer levy was in 2023. Finance Director Bauman explained this levy totaled $385,000. Ms. Yellowstrand requested further information regarding the EDA levy. City Administrator Zikmund reported the EDA levy was separate and totaled $100,000 each year. Carol Mueller, 8343 Groveland Road, expressed concern with how the average household in Mounds View would now be paying $100 per month or more in property taxes for the City. She understood the City could not control the County or school district increases and commented on how the proposed jump would adversely impact those living on a fixed income. She urged the Council to take another look at the budget and tax levy in order to make cuts or reductions. She commented on the EDA levy noting these funds were set aside to assist with economic improvements. She understood the EDA levy used to be $150,000 and this amount has been reduced to $100,000. She encouraged the Council to consider further lowering the EDA levy to $50,000 given the current market conditions. Chris Edmond, 2234 Bronson Drive, commented on the $97 per month that would be paid by homeowners to the City. Finance Director Bauman stated this was an average or estimate for a median value homeowner.