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ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL — SEPTEMBER 23, 2024 10 Councilmember Holden recalled Ramsey County Commissioner Victoria Reinhardt had mentioned there was a significant shift from commercial to residential for property taxes in a recent article in the Pioneer Press. Councilmember Fabel stated he understood these were big numbers. He reported he did a quick analysis and stated even with a 15.5% levy increase, Arden Hills would still be in the lower one- third of all cities in Ramsey County when it comes to taxes. He stated Arden Hills was a low taxing city and has been a low spending city. Councilmember Monson reiterated that this was a preliminary levy and noted she would be open to a lower rate in December. She stated if a Councilmember had proposed cuts she would be willing to make considerations. Councilmember Holden indicated she will lay this information out for the Council in the coming months but understood at this time there were three Councilmembers that supported the 15.5% levy increase. MOTION: Councilmember Monson moved and Councilmember Rousseau seconded a motion to adopt Resolution 2024-045 — Setting the Preliminary Lew at 15.5% for Taxes Payable in 2025. Councilmember Rousseau indicated if the Council were to move forward with a 13% or 14% levy increase, she would like to better understand how this would impact the fund balance. Mayor Grant requested a roll call vote. A roll call vote was taken. The motion carried 3-2 (Councilmember Holden and Mayor Grant opposed). 12. UNFINISHED BUSINESS None. 13. COUNCIL COMMENTS Councilmember Rousseau explained the EDC was meeting with business owners but did not meet in September, neither did the Planning Commission. She welcomed Ben Lindau to the Planning Commission. Councilmember Rousseau thanked all of the election judges for filling an important role during the election season. Councilmember Rousseau supported the City Council providing Director Swearingen direction on hiring the Public Works Lead. The Council was in agreement. Councilmember Holden reported she attended the Ribfest and noted it was not very well attended this year. She recommended this event be marketed more in 2026. She commented signage was not allowed to be posted in the City's parks.