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II ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION - MAY 19, 2008 12 Finance Director Iverson explained in order to start the budget process, a budget calendar for 2009 would need to be approved by Council. She indicated August 4th was a proposed work session meeting date to further discuss the budget. Mayor Harpstead was in agreement with this date and asked that staff coordinate the date with Ms. K vilvang so as not to interfere with a TCAAP work session. Discussion ensued regarding the proposed 2009 Budget Calendar. Councilmember McClung stated he was in favor of holding the budget discussion in August at a separate meeting. Councilmember Holden stated she would not be present ifheld on August 4th. Mayor Harpstead suggested holding this discussion August 11 th at 5:00 p.m. before the regular Council meeting. It was the consensus of the City Council to direct staff to propose an estimated meeting time the beginning of August, with a second meeting scheduled for the end of August before forwarding the budget to the County for certification. E. 2009 Preliminary Bud2et Discussion Finance Director Sue Iverson reported there were several changes with regard to levy limits for 2009. She explained the City is not under any legislative restrictions with regard to establishing a levy. Finance Director Iverson indicated the levy increased by 4.6% in 2008 but could only increase 3.9% or the implicit price deflator in 2009. Finance Director Iverson reiterated the fact that Arden Hills receives no LGA funds. She stated the City would be hampered as to how much the levy can increase. Finance Director Iverson reviewed the preliminary factors that would affect the 2009 budget with the Council. She stated there was a need for reserve funds, park funding and personnel benefits. Finance Director Iverson stated the next step would be to have each department put together their budget to see what the proposed expenses will be for 2009. She indicated after that time, priorities could be set. Discussion ensued regarding preliminary 2009 budget, the health care implications for employees and additional projected department budget increases. Mayor Harpstead requested a summary from each department explaining the priorities for 2009. He indicated this would assist the Council in understanding where funds were needed, even if not assigned a dollar value at this time. Further discussion was held between the Councilmembers about a City-wide survey and if it would be completed in 2008.