Agenda - Council - 12/13/2011 - Laserfiche WebLink

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