Laserfiche WebLink
fewer permits, lower costs, and to speed the process. Payment options were considered; <br /> however, State code indicates building permits cannot be issued until fees have been paid. <br /> Councilmember Wise stated he has never been a fan of basing building permit fees on evaluation <br /> because he does not think there is more work to inspect a 10,000 sq. ft. than 2,000 sq. ft. <br /> building. He also thinks it would encourage higher end homes if the building permit fee is not <br /> based on evaluation. <br /> Councilmember McGlone asked if this item to accept fees is on tonight's agenda for public <br /> hearing and adoption. <br /> Deputy City Administrator Nelson answered in the affirmative. <br /> Councilmember McGlone referenced the staff report, noting the case example uses salaries for <br /> staff who are no longer part of the City's organization. <br /> Deputy City Administrator Nelson indicated the report being referenced is from 2010 and much <br /> has changed with staffing since 2010. She explained it is intended to represent a broad analysis <br /> to say all staff is involved with a piece of the work so those percentages of time are being <br /> attributed. In 2011, this report will look differently but the ratio on expenses and revenues will <br /> be similar. <br /> Councilmember McGlone asked whether the 15 %rate came from the League's recommendation. <br /> He wondered how much involvement there was by the City Administrator or Police personnel <br /> with a $100,000 home. Councilmember McGlone felt the analysis to arrive at the fees was "out <br /> of whack" and ventured to say the Council needs to take a more comprehensive look at how the <br /> City bases its permits and fees. He indicated he does not feel comfortable voting tonight in the <br /> affirmative on this issue. <br /> Councilmember Strommen asked Councilmember McGlone what he means in terms of taking a <br /> "more comprehensive look." <br /> Councilmember McGlone stated fees are a big issue for him so he talked with other people and <br /> cities. He explained he did not have answers for the questions he was asked, such as projected <br /> growth and sewer sizing, but they all relate to development fees. Councilmember McGlone <br /> stated he does not understand it enough to feel comfortable and thinks there is something wrong <br /> but does not know exactly what. <br /> Councilmember Strommen stated the Council has spent a lot of time talking about this and staff <br /> has spent time to provide information. She stated if more information is wanted, the Council <br /> needs to define what it wants. Councilmember Strommen noted the Council reviews rates and <br /> fees every year so there is always annual reevaluation. She indicated fees are to cover the City's <br /> costs, to assure consistency in building of a certain quality, and protect current and future <br /> residents. She suggested the Council define its goal. Councilmember Strommen noted the <br /> Council wants the City to be competitive but all surrounding communities are in a different place <br /> of growth evolution. The Council needs to be sure it is comparing "apples -to- apples" and cover <br /> City Council Work Session / December 13, 2011 <br /> Page 2 of 7 <br />