Minutes - 2005/08/08 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Mounds View City Council August 8, 2005 Regular Meeting Page 2 • would have restored monies to government aid noting that the original formula would have put back some of the funds for Mounds View but in the end it all collapsed and the monies that did remain were distributed to the smaller cities. He stated that they also considered bipartisan funding for a transportation bill, proposals on clean water legacy and smoking bans in restaurants and public places. He indicated that another special session could be called if the Governor deems that it is necessary noting that the regular session would begin next May 2006. Representative Bernardy referenced the funding Mounds View received for the County Road J improvements stating that the City should be proud of the fact that the community did receive funding for the repair of their roads. She noted that one item that did not pass was the proposal to close up the loopholes that would prevent businesses from diverting their funds on tax payments. She indicated that the State did end up with a 4-percent annual increase for the Education Fund and they tightened the sexual predator and methamphetamine laws. She stated that the changes would help to restore some of the funding cut from education last year and reviewed with Council. Mayor Marty stated that Council has asked before whether they could use MSA funds for road repairs and asked if this issue was discussed. Senator Betzold stated that there was almost no bill period and when the transportation bill came up for discussion they had a major amendment to consider that put funds back into fund. He explained that the entire bill was basically re-written before it came over to the Senate adding • that the Senate concurred with the recommended changes. He stated that he did not recall any specific discussions on the use of MSA funds adding that he does not see a lot happening in transportation this year. Mayor Marty asked if the City could put in a request for next year. Representative Bernardy stated that this was something that they were going to suggest adding that they could fill out the request and submit it, see what happens. Senator Betzold stated that since the transportation funds were not passed this year they might consider it for next year and urged the Council to consider putting in a request for the funds. Representative Bernardy stated that she would also like to let the Council know how proud she is to represent the Citizens of Mounds View. She stated that she is pleased to see so many individuals in this City involved in the Legislative process. She stated that she has received a huge response from the residents and is very proud to represent such an involved community. Council Member Flaherty asked about the federal funding process for the transportation projects and clarified that the State would not have received funding had they not passed the legal limit to .08. • Representative Bernardy reviewed the federal funding process noting that this was going to be the year that the State would have received a huge amount for complying with the national limits.