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ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION—AUGUST 19, 2013 2 Discussion ensued regarding escrow accounts that cover legal expenses for development projects and a recent dangerous dog situation that required legal assistance. Director of Finance and Administrative Services Iverson stated that legal expenses are passed along to residents and developers when allowable. The dangerous dog issue is an example where the City is required to address certain situations and is obligated to pay its own legal expenses to enforce the City ordinances or regulations. Councilmember Holmes noted that when possible, she wanted to see the increase in attorney fees reflected in the City's fee schedule. Councilmember Holden requested that staff research whether field and irrigation expenses and room rental expenses are adequately being covered and accounted for in the proposed fee schedule. Parks and Recreation Manager Olson stated that the proposed fees do cover the City's costs. Councilmember Holden questioned if the refuse hauler permit covered the City's expenses. She requested that staff investigate this further and report back to Council. Director of Finance and Administrative Services Iverson stated that the fee for refuse haulers was established to cover the yearly expense incurred for an administrative background check. The Council asked for more information on the refuse hauler requirements. Mayor Grant discussed the local gambling tax and questioned what amount the City is authorized to collect. Deputy Clerk Dietl indicated that City Ordinance states that the City tax shall not exceed 3% of gross receipts. The Council recommended that the 3% local gambling tax be included in the fee schedule. Mayor Grant reviewed the utility rates and expressed concern with the billing rate language. Director of Finance and Administrative Services Iverson discussed the language in detail with the Council, and appropriate per gallon language was decided upon. Councilmember Holmes inquired if staff would be recovering the City's expenses for TCAAP. City Administrator Klaers stated that the TCAAP expenses will be further analyzed by staff and this topic can be discussed at the next budget work session. Councilmember Holmes discussed the use of City picnic shelters and inquired why a $50 fee is charged to residents. She recommended that the fee be waived for preapproved neighborhood groups and National Night Out events.