CCWS 06-21-2004 - Laserfiche WebLink

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ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL WORKSESSION June 21, 2004 3 . It was mentioned that there are two hotels/motels within the City limits. The owner of Super 8 Motel is not in favor of this proposal. The owner feels that this would be an administrative burden on him. It was pointed out that it appeared that the owner was not very familiar with the program. A Councilmember stated that since 50% of the hotel/motel owners are not supportive of this program, it needs further review and discussion. 2.D. 2005 Bude:et Update and Deseription of Funds Murtuza Siddiqui, Finance Director, provided an overview of the City's financial system structure. After the presentation of the overview, Mr. Siddiqui asked the Council for guidance with regards to the 2005 Budget. He stated that the Legislature has eliminated the levy limits, at least for 2005, and asked for the Council's input regarding a percentage increase for next year. The Council had a discussion and felt comfortable with an increase in the range of3% to 4%. A final levy will be determined after the budget is reviewed. The next item that was discussed was COLA/step increases. For budget preparation purposes, the Council directed staff to include a 3% increase in the 2005 Budget. Mr. Siddiqui mentioned that health and dental premiums are expected to increase 18% to 20% next year, which would translate into approximately $142 per month. The question was how much of an increase should be assumed by the employee and how much by the City. The Council felt comfortable by splitting the cost; therefore, the monthly maximum contribution would increase from the current $462 to $533 per month. It was also mentioned that labor/union . negotiation will start soon. It was also mentioned that the Lake Johanna Fire Department is seeking to convert the half-time fire inspector position to a full-time position. As a result, the City may have difficulty recruiting for the part-time building inspector/code enforcement officer position, therefore the City may need to discuss a full-time inspector position. Mr. Siddiqui mentioned that the copier lease will expire next June and a decision would have to be made whether the City continue to lease or purchase. He recommended purchasing a copier instead ofleasing. The Council is in favor of not extending the current lease and would like staff to include the purchase in next year's proposed budget. Mr. Siddiqui mentioned that staff has adequate direction to move forward with the development of the "draft" 2005 Budget. 2.E. Disposition of Old Street Sie:ns Mr. Tom Moore, Dircctor of Operations and Maintenance mentioned that on April 26, 2004, the Council awarded the street sign replacement contract and was seeking direction from the Council with regards to the disposal of the old signs. Mr. Moore offered three options to the Council. The first option is to sell the signs for scrap metal for approximately $200. The second option is to sell the signs on a first come first serve basis. The third option is to hold an auction. The . Council suggested that the sale be announced in the City Newsletter and a $10 price per sign be