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. . - ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - MARCH 31,1997 8 Mark Cossack, 1385 Colleen Avenue, gave a bench handout to Council which states a realty assessment was done on his home, and it was determined that resurfacing of the road will not add to the value of his property. He feels the City should assess a flat fee for every home, whether it is scheduled for improvements that year or not. He feels that people living on high-traffic streets subsidize those who do not, as those streets are higher maintenance and need improvements more often. He inquired if the assessment policy is going to be re-examined at any time. Mayor Probst indicated the City's assessment policy would not have any changes made to it at this meeting. Mayor Probst further stated the City is exploring various methods of making assessments more equitable. Mr. Cossack stated Colleen is being rated only on the first 20-30 feet, that the remainder of the street is in satisfactory condition. He reiterated that smoother streets will increase vehicle speeds. He inquired regarding the method of appealing his assessment. Mayor Probst replied that appeals are handled on an individual basis. Mr. Fritsinger explained that citizens whose appeals are denied at tonight's meeting will be sent a letter explaining Council actions, and those whose appeals are upheld or carried over will be informed at tonight's meeting. Mr. Cossack inquired if then, the only recourse he has is District Court. Mayor Probst indicated that to be correct. Donald Wahlberg, 1451 Arden Place, was no longer present. Mayor Probst indicated the citizens on the sign-up sheet had all testified, and invited any other citizens to come forward at that time. Pam Baglien, 4140 Norma Avenue, inquired how the engineers measure property to assess rates. She also inquired regarding the appeal process for frontage calculation. Mr. Maurer explained the method the City uses in calculating frontage on odd-shaped lots. Ms. Baglien stated the frontage on her lot is equivalent to her neighbors, but her property is assessed at a much higher rate. James Wigginton, 4200 Norma Avenue, came forward and stated he feels there is no need for maintenance on his street this year. Paul Olson, 4274 Colleen Circle, inquired how the interest rate on the assessment is determined. Mayor Probst replied it is a standing rate, and has remained the same for several years. Councilmember Malone commented a State Statute originally existed that restricted the amount of interest cities may charge on assessments.