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Councilmember Wise did not support implying the City would be looking for outside funding <br /> because he believed it was a City problem. He suggested considering a tiered increase, maybe <br /> for six years, until the reconstruction program is fully financed. Then residents can adjust their <br /> household budget. In addition, the economy may be better in the future. <br /> Councilmember Strommen stated the City needs to be careful about making the message too <br /> complicated or sending too many messages. She preferred the message define the problem, talk <br /> about options, and request input. Councilmember Strommen noted that at the decision point the <br /> City may be able to bring down the burden; however, she felt including that now makes it <br /> confusing. The message should be simple and stay on track. <br /> Councilmember McGlone agreed, stating he likes the idea of under promising and over <br /> delivering. He suggested letting residents know this is the worst -case scenario, noting the <br /> Council will hear from residents who object. <br /> Public Works Director Olson stated staff had suggested only three options in an effort to keep the <br /> message simple. Staff envisions giving presentations at key stakeholder meetings, the Rotary, <br /> EDA, Connexus, senior groups, and prominent businesses so staff wants to assure the issue is <br /> clear. He explained that at this point, staff is only gathering information and the FAQ, once <br /> refined, will be sent to QCTV. <br /> Mayor Ramsey stated he thinks, in hindsight, the Council went down the wrong road because <br /> this process will cost enough to construct a quarter mile of road. He noted the Council probably <br /> has enough information from the survey to make a decision. Then a simple communication <br /> piece can be sent out on the problem and what the Council decided as a solution, starting with a <br /> $14 /month/household franchise fee. Mayor Ramsey pointed out the Council has been discussing <br /> this issue for two and one -half years. <br /> Councilmember Wise stated the Council has already started this process but maybe it should <br /> select one of the three options, set policy, and then provide information to the public. He <br /> estimated that 85% of the residents will have the same opinion in not being happy. <br /> Councilmember Elvig agreed this issue can be "studied to death" but the issue is how to message <br /> it, present it to the public, the rate of fee, and to work the legislation option. He supported <br /> creating a Communication Plan addressing those elements and sending out a reasonable <br /> communication piece explaining the plan. <br /> Mayor Ramsey noted it will cost more money to get a legislative district in place and if the <br /> franchise fee starts at $14 /month/household it gives the City an opportunity. He noted that <br /> should the economy not improve, consideration can be given to not including sidewalks. <br /> City Administrator Ulrich stated one value the community holds dear is property rights, which is <br /> reflected in Charter policy. He noted that if assessed, property owners have the right to petition <br /> against the project and even with a 50/50 split, the City does not have that 50% portion. City <br /> Administrator Ulrich stated the message could be to present the option of fixing streets, a low <br /> City Council Work Session / November 15, 2011 <br /> Page 4 of 9 <br />