Minutes - 2009/07/13 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Mounds View City Council July 13, 2009 Regular Meeting Page 2 • 7. COUNCIL BUSINESS A. Business Registration Program. 1. Ordinance 821 (First Reading). Building Official Osmonson noted the staff report contains the background and recommendations related to the Business Registration Program. Community Development Director Roberts presented the three actions required to implement such a program and requested Council direction on the fee to be charged. Building Official Osmonson advised that staff research of other communities with such a program found fees range from $25 to $100 per year. Council Member Mueller asked whether the fees charged by other cities covered costs. Building Official Osmonson stated Fridley's fee is in the higher range and based on the size of business, Spring Lake Park and St. Paul charge a flat fee. Council Member Mueller noted another city felt the program was vital so the type of business and possible hazards were known in advance of an emergency response. She stated her support to institute this Program and charge a fee to offset the City's costs with an "early bird" incentive for a lower fee in subsequent years if signed up the first year. Council Member Gunn stated her support of this Program and noted it can be considered the same as the liquor license or cigarette license fee. She suggested a $25 annual registration fee. • Mayor Flaherty agreed with the need to have business contact information on file and that the Fire Department should already know of hazard information. He stated he supports the City becoming more efficient but does not support an annual fee or budget increase in 2009. Rather, he suggested a voluntary registration program. Council Member Stigney stated if the cost is not borne by the businesses, it would be borne by the residences and this program relates to the business community. He outlined a sliding scale fee schedule to create incentive for businesses to register and penalty if the business does not register by a set date. Council Member Hull stated his agreement with Council Member Stigney's suggestion and charging a penalty if registration is not made by a set date. He noted that after the initial software cost, the City's only cost is for maintenance. Community Development Director Roberts suggested implementation on January 1, 2010, to allow adequate time to inform businesses. Council Member Mueller asked about the perceived value for the business owner. Building Official Osmonson stated it is a safety service and noted that Mounds View does not charge for a fire permit. Clerk-Administrator Ericson added that the more efficient City staff can be, the higher level of service can be offered to residents, which benefits all. i MOTION/SECOND: Mueller/Gunn. To Approve First Reading of Ordinance 821, Adding Language to the City Code about Business Registration, to be implemented January 1, 2010.