05-14-12-R Draft Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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I ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL—MAY 14, 2012 5 Councilmember Holden questioned why Lake Valentine was being evaluated and what did this have to do with the Mississippi Watershed when the City was part of the Rice Creek Watershed District. Assistant City Engineer Anderson commented Lake Valentine was impaired and needed a TMDL study completed. He explained that most of the City's water was contributed to a larger watershed, which made the City responsible for the South Metro Mississippi River Watershed. I Mayor Grant opened the public hearing at 7:32 p.m. I There were no public comments. Mayor Grant closed the public hearing at 7:33 p.m. B. Resolution 2012-014 — Adopting and Confirming Quarterly Special Assessments for Delinquent Utilities Director of Finance and Administrative Services Iverson stated the City Council has adopted changes to the Utility Ordinance effective January 1, 2012. One of the changes calls for certifying delinquent utility amounts quarterly instead of annually. A list of utility accounts with delinquent balances was compiled by Staff and a notice dated April 6, 2012, was mailed. These customers were notified of their delinquent status and asked to pay the balance by April 30, 2012. Director of Finance and Administrative Services Iverson explained that utility accounts with unpaid delinquent balances after April 30, 2012 would be certified to Ramsey County to be added to property taxes payable in 2013. The certification amount was equal to the unpaid delinquent balance and an eight percent penalty. Councilmember Werner asked for the number of delinquent utility accounts in 2011. Director of Finance and Administrative Services Iverson estimated that approximately 200 properties were delinquent in 2011. Councilmember Tamble questioned how long homeowners were allowed to be delinquent prior to being assessed with the County. Director of Finance and Administrative Services Iverson explained bills that were 90 days overdue were certified with the County. She commented this was in alignment with City Code. In the past, delinquent accounts were assessed on an annual basis, versus on a quarterly basis. Councilmember Werner inquired if late fees were charged to the delinquent accounts. Director of Finance and Administrative Services Iverson stated late fees of approximately $50.00 were added on to all delinquent accounts per ordinance. Mayor Grant opened the public hearing at 7:37 p.m.