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If we really want a full of review all these expenditures, I would suggest undertaking an ongoing task to <br /> systematically review the programs and services we now offer,enlisting citizens in this review process to <br /> assist staff and council in sifting through the many possible options and changes. This group would <br /> operate without a specific goal other than reviewing programs for cost, use,etc.,and providing <br /> recommendations to the Council. They could also partner with neighborhood groups for additional <br /> input. They could recommend increases as well as reductions or priority shifts. We could consider this <br /> as an ongoing function if it proved positive and useful. We can discuss potential savings by program <br /> over the next year and reduce or eliminate things found to be unnecessary. Savings we are able to make <br /> can be reallocated to programs needing additional revenue or used to offset the cost of living or <br /> inflation expenses for the following year. <br /> Where we need to be: <br /> Assuming that we are currently appropriately staffed and providing the level of service requested by our <br /> citizens,what we should assess in additional taxes to make us"sustainable"for the next several years <br /> with only adjustments to account for inflation. To do that,we would have to add$5.00 per month to <br /> the tax charge of every residential property and a corresponding amount from other non-residential <br /> properties. In order to provide the infrastructure maintenance and replacement necessary for our <br /> water,sanitary sewer,and storm water system in today's dollars,we need to add $1.00 per month to <br /> every residential utility bill. (There are ways to shift a portion of this fee increase onto commercial <br /> properties,especially those have significant water usage, but for now this is the simple view.) <br /> What is the future? <br /> The economy of Roseville,the state,the U.S.,and the world is in uncharted territory; no one knows <br /> what will come next. However,there is considerable agreement that the economy will not recover <br /> quickly,and may never reach the levels of the 90s. We need to do the best we can for our city and our <br /> residents to provide them with adequate services in a sustainable manner. <br /> Citizens have a right and we have an obligation to let them know the"real"cost of the services and <br /> amenities they enjoy and value. According to the survey conducted by the City, Roseville residents are <br /> very pleased with their city services and amenities. They volunteer at high rates and support the <br /> community when asked. According to the survey conducted by Parks and Recreation,81%of residents <br /> expressed an interest in spending at least$4.00 per month for parks improvement with 64%willing to <br /> spend at least$8.00 per month. While there were many amenities on the Parks and Recreation <br /> smorgasbord and individuals wanted to fund those things they found most useful to them or their <br /> families,it does show that individuals are willing to spend money on their community. Thus it seems to <br /> me that the majority is willing and able to support a sustainable fiscal program. When they are asked to <br /> make a decision on a referendum,they should do so from a position of understanding and supporting a <br /> sustainable, balanced budget. <br /> Note: It should also be noted that within the$5.00 per month,the existing Parks and Recreation <br /> reserve fund will once again begin to be replenished thus providing funds for maintaining and gradually <br /> improving the existing facilities. <br /> Page 2 of 5 <br />