Minutes - Council Work Session - 10/18/2011

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Councilmember Wise noted it has been discussed to use assessments for overlay projects and this fund for reconstruction projects but sometimes there is reconstruction with an overlay project. He asked whether all properties get assessed, even churches. Public Works Director Olson explained that churches get assessed but if a road project is funded from the property tax levy, churches do not pay taxes. He explained that is fortunate for those with a 2.5 acre lot but not fortunate for property owners with reconstruction projects because even if the City paid 20 -40% of the cost, the assessment could still be $15,000. He noted if the counter petition is 75 %, they may still petition against the project because of the high cost. Mayor Ramsey stated this needs to be considered because that is why people moved to Ramsey, they wanted large lots and now they will have to pay for it. Councilmember McGlone noted the City is not considering curb and gutter, concrete apron, or sidewalks, so there may be more issues that a group could ferret out. Public Works Director Olson stated it appears the communication plan as presented is not what the Council intended and the Council has indicated having no on -line survey. Councilmember Wise asked if the survey could be published so when residents come to the meeting they can fill it out. That process would assure the education process occurs. Councilmember Strommen noted the on -line survey could require inclusion of their name and address. She stated it is sometimes hard for people to get to meetings and she does not want to discourage input. She questioned whether the Council needed to weigh everything equally and agreed more quality discussion is better because of the benefit of residents interacting with one another. Councilmember Strommen noted that interaction may result in someone changing their mind. Councilmember Elvig agreed that you can't trust input if responding to a "yes /no" internet survey without being educated as to the issue. He thought offering options of a comment card, requesting more information, or being alerted of upcoming events may be of benefit because it will engage residents and reach out to them. Mayor Ramsey suggested the Council and staff make a video at QCTV with a brief script that can be placed on line. The Council agreed with this suggestion and that Mayor Ramsey, Councilmember McGlone, and City Administrator Ulrich will undertake this endeavor. Councilmember Strommen suggested staff use the chart during open houses and that information be included on the invitation post card so residents become interested in attending the meeting. The Council discussed the range of methods to fund street reconstruction projects including a tax increase, assessments, franchise fees, or a combination of assessments and a lower franchise fee. It was mentioned that the assessment process is costly and adds expense and acknowledged there City Council Work Session / October 18, 2011 Page 9 of 11