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ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL—DECEMBER 8, 2014 4 execution of all necessary documents contained therein. The motion carried unanimously(5-0). 6. PULLED CONSENT ITEMS None. 7. PUBLIC HEARINGS A. TCAAP Development Discussion Opportunity for Residents Mayor Grant stated that under the Public Hearing section, citizens have an opportunity to discuss ideas regarding the TCAAP development. Mayor Grant opened the public hearing at 7:11 p.m. With no one coming forward to speak, Mayor Grant closed the public hearing at 7:12 p.m. B. Truth-In-Taxation Hearing Director of Finance and Administrative Services Iverson provided the Council with a presentation on the 2015 budget and tax levy. She described the notices that were published for the Truth-In-Taxation Hearing and noted that tonight's presentation was available on the City's website. She then explained why property tax levels varied from year to year, due in part to property values, school district referendums, and special assessments, in addition to changes in federal and state law. Director of Finance and Administrative Services Iverson reported that property values in Arden Hills were on the rise. She discussed how this would impact the median value homeowner with the proposed 5.05% tax levy increase for 2015. She provided comment on the property tax valuation paperwork that was sent to each Arden Hills' property owner from Ramsey County. How the City's tax levies have changed from 2008 to 2015, along with how tax dollars are divided between the City, County, school district and other agencies was reviewed. Director of Finance and Administrative Services Iverson explained how property taxes were spent by the City for public safety, public works, parks and recreation, and other governmental expenses. She provided a tax rate comparison between Arden Hills and other communities in Ramsey County. She commended the Council for their work in keeping the City's tax rate low. Revenues and expenditures for 2015 were reviewed. She presented the key budget elements and noted the contracted expense for fire, police and dispatch services were all rising by approximately 5%in 2015. She asked for questions or comments from the Council. Councilmember Holden questioned why the fire contract was proposed to increase so dramatically in 2015. Director of Finance and Administrative Services Iverson reported this was the final year of the implementation for the duty crew. The City would now have a 24 hour, seven day a week, full- time fire department.