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challenge to compare apples -to- apples and explained the portions of the survey and how the <br />pieces worked together. <br />Councilmember Wise stated he has had many discussions with developers over the years, and the <br />perception is that Ramsey's rates are high. <br />Public Works Director Olson confirmed Mr. Brama did an excellent job on this survey and it will <br />be very helpful for planning and developing competitive rates. <br />Councilmember McGlone stated he has spoken with developers who say the developer fees are <br />key to where they will build. He suggested instituting a usage fee instead of a developer fee. <br />Councilmember Backous inquired why the League of Minnesota Cities (LMNC) hasn't drawn a <br />comparison chart together throughout the State to get accurate information. He stated this <br />document is good, though there was varying levels of cooperation. He suggested there might be <br />more willing participants if the study was done by the LMNC. <br />Councilmember Strommen agreed the information from city to city would not be comparable <br />with only a small number of cities participating. She also noted developers choose where they <br />will develop based on the flexibility of the process. <br />Mr. Brama explained the cities were selected geographically. He tried to contact a few outlying <br />cities, though Prior Lake was the only city that responded. <br />Mayor Ramsey commented if the perception is that Ramsey is too expensive for developing, that <br />perception needs to be changed. <br />Public Works Director Olson appreciated the comments and concerns. He raised the issue of <br />utility rates. He noted the two options to bring them inline are to scale back improvements or <br />shift more fees onto the residents. <br />Councilmember Wise stated it is not the hard costs of the fees that are an issue; it is the process. <br />He noted when an applicant has to appear before the Council to make a minor change that <br />requires new drawings; it costs the applicant money for that process. <br />Senior Planner Gladhill responded the Planning and Zoning Department is trying its best to <br />improve that process. He invited the Councilmembers to bring forth ideas. <br />Consensus was reached to schedule a larger group discussion with various participants regarding <br />fees in the near future. <br />Councilmember Tossey brought up a concern about fees for inspection for soil and erosion. He <br />said he wanted to be sure the fee was justified and if there is a state law, Ramsey needs to follow <br />it, <br />City Council Work Session / August 23, 2011 <br />Page 2 of 4 <br />