2007-08-21_Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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8.Action Items: a.Consider Approval of 2008 Preliminary Budget and Resolution Requesting 2008 HRA Levy. Ms. Bennett presented a summary of HRA housing goals based on the HRA Housing Plan, a summary of strategies based on the Imagine Roseville 2025 document and a summary of HRA accomplishments from 2004 to 2007. Based on that information, Ms. Bennett presented three options for a 2008 HRA levy request: a minimum levy request in the amount of $155,750 that would allow for no new programming and no support for multifamily renovation (specifically Har Mar Apartments), a levy request in the amount of $255,750 that would allow for limited new programming to address code enforcement issues and support for multifamily renovation Har Mar Apartments), and a maximum levy request in the amount of $605,220 that would allow the HRA to fully respond to the Imagine Roseville 2025 recommendations, allow for programming to address code enforcement and rental housing, and proactively support multifamily renovation (one or two projects in addition to Har Mar Apartments). Ms. Bennett explained that the HRA will forward their preliminary levy request to the City Council for discussion at their September 10, 2007 meeting. Levy requests may only be reduced (not raised) before the final levy is submitted to Ramsey County in December 2007. Member Maschka indicated his support of the maximum levy request to put recommended programs into action. Member Elkins concurred. Chair Majerus noted the importance of creating a five-year plan for the HRA. Member Millasovich noted that she supported the levy request that allowed for the multifamily renovation at Har Mar Apartments only, noting that the Har Mar project may be an opportunity to build public support for future levies. Member Masche indicated his support of the maximum levy request and the opportunities it would provide to address the Imagine Roseville 2025 goals, as well as issues related to code enforcement and the city’s aging multifamily housing stock. Member Masche opined that the maximum levy request could allow the HRA to take leadership on housing matters and draw attention to HRA goals. Member Pust wondered what would happen to any unspent funds raised by the levy. Ms. Bennett indicated that the HRA can reallocate remaining funds for new programming or set them aside for the following year’s budget, potentially reducing future levy requests. Member Pust wondered about community support for a maximum levy request, noting additional levies that may be added for the City Manager’s budget and the school district. Chair Majerus opined that the Imagine Roseville 2025 goals represented an opportunity to reinvest in the community. Ms. Bennett indicated that the City Council can reduce the HRA levy request if they so choose. If that occurs, the HRA can modify its budget. Member Pust inquired about the funds in the budget held in reserve and wondered if the HRA could build a more adequate reserve in accordance with City Council goals. Ms. Bennett replied that the HRA could shift funds from programming to do this. Member Masche indicated the importance of maintaining multifamily housing stock to keep Roseville a desirable community with stable housing and amenities. Motion: Member Elkins moved, seconded by Member Masche, to adopt a preliminary 2008 Budget in the amount of $854,020.00 for levy fund 723. Ayes: 4 Nays: 1 – Jackson Millasovich Abstain: 1 - Pust Motion carried.