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ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION – NOVEMBER 16, 2015 8 Councilmember Holmes asked about the increase in water and utility rates and also for clarification as to why the figures in the proposed budget show a negative dollar figure. Acting City Administrator Iverson explained the rate setting process and also explained the budget and cash balances. A discussion ensued about the TCAAP development area and how it affects the figures in the 2016 proposed budget. It was noted a comprehensive rate study will be performed in the future once the City knows what the County is going to do with the property. The Council agreed to place approval of the fee schedule on the December 14, 2015, agenda. E. Budget & CIP Acting City Administrator Iverson reviewed changes made to the CIP as directed by City Council at their work session in August 2015. Acting City Administrator Iverson stated that some items will require further discussion and advised waiting for the new City Administrator and Public Works Director to be hired. She suggested the Council discuss future PMP prioritization at a future work session next spring. Acting Public Works Director Anderson discussed the proposed 2016 sidewalk additions along Highway 96 and County Road F. He said the two projects could be split (do the County Road F sidewalk project in 2016 and the Highway 96 sidewalk project in 2017 in conjunction with the TCAAP spine road) or both projects could be done in 2017, which would be more cost effective. The Council agreed to move both sidewalk projects to 2017. Mayor Grant asked about the status of the sanitary sewer lining rehabilitation program. Acting Public Works Director Anderson said progress has been made, he had no concerns, and that he will put together a summary of the status of the program for discussion in the future. Discussion then ensued regarding the operating budget and upcoming truth in taxation hearing on December 14, 2015. Acting City Administrator Iverson stated the Council adopted the preliminary levy of 3.5% which results in an approximate $8.00 increase on a median value home. She stated the 2016 budget proposal was prepared using a 3% COLA increase for City staff and noted union negotiations are currently in process. She stated there will be an increase of 6.5% in health insurance premiums and a 2.9% increase in dental premiums. A discussion ensued regarding the General fund and changes to Park and Recreation staff salaries’ allocation from 2015 to 2016. It was also noted Public Works is requesting the addition of one seasonal staff member to perform duties solely related to public and private rain gardens in the surface water management fund.