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ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION-DECEMBER 21, 2009 5 1B. Administrative Fines for Traffic Offenses (continued) City Administrator Moorse explained that with reduced fines, the City would hope to eliminate the need for people to avoid administrative Court fees and would pay the fine. Discussion ensued regarding traffic offenses and administrative fines. Councilmember Holmes questioned if there was a cost benefit analysis of the proposed fine program. Mayor Harpstead stated this program was not suggested to become a revenue generator for the City. He indicated the hope would be to reduce the need for additional hearings and officers in court. City Attorney Filla explained the Sheriff would like this service followed by all contract cities to assist in cost sharing. Councilmember Grant stated he did not want to see the residents of Arden Hills receiving tickets for "little things." Councilmember McClung indicated that if this program would encourage greater visibility of the Sheriff's Department in the City of Arden Hills he would be in favor of it. However, he would not be in favor of implementing the program until the City was assured it would make an impact on presence of the sheriff's department and while increasing the overall safety of the residents. Councilmember Holden noted she hears from the residents, time and time again, that people drive too fast in the City. She suggested the Ramsey County Sheriff's Department be spoken to about the speed of traffic in general. Mayor Harpstead stated the Sheriff's may be willing to give out more speeding tickets if the fine was reduced to $60 from $120. City Attorney Filla indicated that the Sheriff's do have discretion on who they ticket. He added that all cases are different. Mayor Harpstead added that administrative fines would not be reported in a manner that would affect automobile insurance.