1998-12-21 Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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Mr. March explained the major budget increase was based on the proposed increase to police protection from 17 to 24 hours. Mr. David Germundson (1976 -72'/2 Street) questioned how the city plans to segregate 17/24 hr. Police hour coverage. Mayor Wilharber explained the police department coverage will assist in pubilc safety. Currently, the city has three neighborhood watch programs and to keep the crime rate low additional coverage is needed. Mr. Germundson questioned Staff as to what was the City's motive to waiting, prior to installing utilities down 20th Avenue. Mr. March stated the commercial/industrial property owner approached the city and requested improvements and therefore the property owner will pay a larger portion of the cost instead of the city. Ms. Norma Essex (7333 Old Mill Road) commented that her taxes have increased 14% and that is too much. Seniors are on fixed incomes and cannot afford such annual tax increases. Ms. Amy Nash (7234 Brian Drive) requested a better understanding of the proposed property tax for 1999. Mr. March reiterated the major budget expenses. Mr. Hatem Qamhieh (7251 Clearwater Drive) shared that his increase would be 12.1 %, or $273 per year, and questioned what the City plans to do to decrease taxes. Mayor Wilharber speculated that the City will experience a decline in tax as the commercial and industrial activity increase. Ms. Molly Nelson (1860 Revoir Street) commented that since last year, the market value of her house increased $85,000. Moreover, the City required the houses in Acorn Creek 2nd Addition to be built to the R5 zoning districts' regulations. However, the homes on Old Mill Road are valued at the same rate as the R5 district homes but are smaller in size. Now, the City has increased the market value beyond an affordable level. Ms. Dorn suggested the City consider implementing a program similar to Lino Lakes "Friends of the Park" as a way of decreasing park expenses. Mr. Brainerd asked what the percentage was of property zoned industrial within the City. Mr. March estimated 10 - 20% at the maximum. Mr. Brainerd commented, a charge of $1750 is charged for REU's and asked where the city allocate these funds in the budget. Mr. March responded the long term capital improvement funds for additional lift stations and for the futures need of a larger water tower. Also, the City is restricted to expending those funds. Mr. John Simonson (7263 Centerville Road) stated he is projecting a 67 1/2% increase and suggested the City consider waiting to increase the police department coverage until more commercial and industrial businesses develop. Mr. Qamhieh also suggested the city make a gradual transition from 17 to 24 hour coverage. 3