Agenda - Council - 03/11/2008 - Laserfiche WebLink

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I. Trying new ways of doing things isn't always smooth. We'll need to overcome temptation to go back to doing things the "easy" way. J. Enough staff to oversee new projects a. Finding the money In relation to the goal of redevelopment, there was discussion of adding the following obstacle: "City Charter disallows the assessment of sewer and water when going through an existing neighborhood with functioning sewer and water." It was determined that this is a long - term financing issue, rather than an obstacle. Council and staff split into small groups to discuss how to overcome the above obstacles. Results were as follows: Group 1: Councilmember Dehen, Assistant City Administrator Nelson and Fire Chief Kapler focused on Item E: ■ Educate media — be more proactive — press releases /pitch story ideas ■ Provide information to residents — transparency- frequent messages — ex Ramsey Town Center • As progress happens promote it — provide information to media/residents • Encourage community involvement — engage residents • Invest in physical image — entries & corridors • Consider renaming Ramsey Town Center Group 2: Councilmembers Look and Olson, City Administrator Ulrich and Director of Public Works Olson focused on Items A & D: Community Consensus • Balance expectations ■ Open, honest communication • Something for everyone • Intrinsic conflict, develop consensus building process Regain Trust • Open, honest communication ■ Allow healthy debate • Share the facts, background • Encourage referendums at presidential elections for key issues Group 3: Mayor Gamec, Councilmember Strommen, Police Chief Way, Interim Community Development Director Frolik and Finance Officer Lund focused on Items D & G: Regain Trust • Communication o Neighborhood meetings o OST o Clear, consistent message Funding • Know where we stand financially /update fiscal impact City Council/Staff Strategic Planning Session / February 2, 2008 Page 4 of 8