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Regular City Council Meeting Monday, September 25, 2017 Page 6 Mayor Roe clarified that the fund and a policy had yet to be established and was still under discussion. Councilmember Willmus clarified Councilmember Etten's preferred target around 3% or less impact to the community; with Mayor Roe noting this would be similar to Option C in terms of overall numbers. Councilmember McGehee noted that, while her proposed levy impact was differ- ent, she would like to know how to address that option and keep impacts as low as possible for residents while keeping that option open. Councilmember Etten stated that he found Councilmember McGehee's Option E to be an intriguing concept. However, at this time, Councilmember Etten stated that he was not yet ready to make that jump. When having previously brought up her proposal, Councilmember Etten stated that his understanding was that it need- ed further vetting. Councilmember Etten stated that he agreed with Councilmem- ber Willmus' prior comments as to the impact such a proposal may have and how it may affect rental or multi-family properties and whether it would drive up costs to the business community. As the city continues its attempts to improve its busi- ness climate, Councilmember Etten opined that he wanted a longer-term view, in- cluding a review and discussion by the Finance Commission before making any major change in funding utility operations. Councilmember Laliberte agreed that the options were great, and wished there had been time allowed for a deeper discussion before tonight, and feedback from the Finance Commission. Councilmember McGehee stated that she didn't think her proposal would be adopted tonight, but instead stated her support for a not-to-exceed levy as she had brought up earlier this year in her August 28, 2017 memorandum and several times in the past 6 years. Councilmember McGehee agreed that there were a number of moving pieces to look at. On the other hand, Councilmember McGe- hee noted the disadvantages of a flat tax system for residential properties, espe- cially in light of the significant school district referendum. Councilmember McGehee noted that her proposal would be similar to that used by some other metropolitan cities when they bond except with her proposal the city would not be paying fees to bond counsel or interest every three years as it recycled those bonds. Councilmember McGehee reminded her colleagues that she had previous- ly asked permission to have her proposal evaluated by the Finance Commission, but the Council was unwilling to doing so. Councilmember McGehee opined that she was optimistic that her proposal could go forward and be given serious con- sideration after being vetted by the Finance Commission and would be worth talk- ing about. However, Councilmember McGehee noted the need for a not-to- exceed 2018 levy and budget that allowed sufficient room for its consideration as that analysis went forward.