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ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION—APRIL 16, 2012 2 <br /> City Administrator Klaers further discussed past subsidy documentation and TIF districts. He <br /> recommended Ehlers be selected to assist the City with this project if further information or <br /> matrixes were needed. He stated that the existing business subsidy policy is very comprehensive. <br /> He requested the Council review the white paper document and provide direction to staff. <br /> Councilmember Holden noted that she worked with FPAC on this project. She supported the <br /> work being done and the development of TIF guidelines. <br /> Jim Osmund, FPAC, understood the value of TIF but knew the City had to prioritize the use of <br /> available dollars. He indicated most cities don't have TIF capacity restrictions. He requested the <br /> Council provide direction on the plan and if the plan would be supported or if modifications were <br /> needed. <br /> Councilmember Holden commented the report recommendation shows that the City is at its <br /> maximum TIF level, however, if a great opportunity was presented to the City, TIF could be <br /> considered. <br /> Councilmember Holmes questioned if the spending guidelines within the white paper needed <br /> further refinement. She stated at one time, FPAC had a number in mind and this was written into <br /> the TIF documents as a guideline. <br /> Councilmember Holden indicated the problem with the 5% level is that the City is already at that <br /> maximum. <br /> Arlene Mitchell, FPAC, suggested the Council consider if they had use for such a tool. As <br /> councilmembers continue to change throughout the year, such a worksheet could assist the <br /> Council with capturing the City's past TIF experiences. <br /> Councilmember Holden was in favor of utilizing the white paper. <br /> Mayor Grant questioned how the Council would address two or three TIF projects that came <br /> before the City, if each met the qualifications. <br /> Councilmember Holden stated the Council would have to consider each project separately and <br /> how each would benefit the City economically in the long run. <br /> Ms. Mitchell stated the worksheets would assist the Council with pointing out the benefits, or <br /> shortfalls of potential TIF projects. <br /> Mayor Grant indicated he also saw this as a useful tool, so long as "X" percentage was a <br /> guideline and not a set policy. <br /> Councilmember Holmes agreed it would be helpful to have a history of TIF projects in the City <br /> to consider when reviewing new projects. <br />