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ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION—AUGUST 26, 2013 3 Director of Finance and Administrative Services Iverson stated that franchise fees were not included in the 2014 budget. Councilmember McClung commented that when he reviews the budget he takes into consideration the totality of the impact, including the proposed taxes for Ramsey County and the school district. He is in support of the 3% levy increase at this time noting that this allows the Council some level of flexibility. He requested that staff provide further information on budget priorities and potential areas where cuts could be made and the impact to the City regarding those cuts. His goal is to reach a 0% tax levy increase for 2014. Based on information from staff, he might not be willing to make some cuts, but he would be able to explain why he was in favor of an increase. City Administrator Klaers indicated that staff will continue to work on the budget after the preliminary levy limit is set. Councilmember Werner reiterated that a 3% preliminary levy was being proposed this evening, and much of the City's increases are due to public safety. Mayor Grant asked if the Council was willing to certify a preliminary levy at 3%. The Council was in favor of the preliminary levy being set at 3%. Director of Finance and Administrative Services Iverson questioned if the Council wanted to hold the budget work session meeting earlier than November. Councilmember McClung recommended that the budget work session be held at the end of October or beginning of November to allow for additional time to review the budget. Director of Finance and Administrative Services Iverson asked if having a special session on November 12 to explain the options and then have the formal discussion on November 18 would work. The Council agreed. Councilmember Holden encouraged the Council to consider where cuts in the budget could be made. She questioned if the parks could be mowed once a week, or if staff had considered the savings by working four ten hour days. City Administrator Klaers commented that four ten hour days may lead to a turnover of City staff members. Councilmember Holmes discussed the expense of park and street maintenance in the City of Arden Hills. Discussion ensued regarding areas within the budget that could be cut.