Agenda - Council - 01/10/2012 - Laserfiche WebLink

Home

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