Minutes - Council - 11/20/1990 - Special

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able to collect revenue on permits and licenses because we would have to discontinue building inspection services and we would also have to draw on our reserves. Mayor Reimann said that if we do not have increases in smaller increments now, large increases would take place further down the road. Residents would not be pleased to have existing services discontinued. One citizen present inquired into our "A" bond rating and whether or not it was that highly regarded. Mr. Hartley stated that our "A" bond rating is excellent for a municipality as "AA" and "AAA" is reserved for the State and State agencies. We have been able to maintain our favorable bond ratings and our interest money has remained within the City of Ramsey. Mayor Reimann stated that we are saving money by having our own Fire Department as well as added identity and accountability. We must think of Ramsey's future while at the same time be as conservative as possible. John Lucia said that he feels all requests for funding should be included in the budget proposal rather than using a special bond issue. Mr. Lucia, even taking into consideration that he has four children, feels no need for an increase for the park system. Councilmember Peterson explained that by having a bond issue, we can do the larger projects now for people who live in Ramsey now and up until this point have moved quite slowly. Councilmember DeLuca reiterated that the purpose of a referendum is for the voters to decide on a particular issue. Councilmember Cich asked Mr. Hartley what it would cost for a special election. Mr. Hartley estimated the cost at $5,000 to have a special election with one polling place. Mr. Lucia asked if it was realistic to have only one polling place open. Mr. Hartley stated that it may be somewhat inconvenient but it is possible for a single issue ballot and that this would be one of the cost cutting measures that citizens are requesting. Motion carried. Voting Yes: Mayor Reimann, Councilmembers Cich, DeLuca, Pearson and Peterson. Voting No: None. Motion by Councilmember Peterson and seconded by Councilmember Pearson to adopt Resolution//90-11-351 setting the 1991 General Fund Budget with the understanding that the budget can be amended as necessary. Motion carried. Voting Yes: Mayor Reimann, Councilmembers Cich, DeLuca, Pearson and Peterson. Voting No: None. MAYOR AND COUNCIL INPUT Councilmember Peterson mentioned that the City's costs are also continuing to increase. Councilmember Cich directed Finance Officer Ashley to continue to monitor operating costs and to review them with Councilmembers. A notice regarding the Governor's Transition Team was summarized for City Council by Mr. Hartley. It states that there may be cuts in local government aid; though this action will have less impact on Ramsey than other communities of similar size. Mayor Reimann remarked that Ramsey should not be required to suffer any cuts in local government aid as we do not get our fair share now. Councilmember DeLuca mentioned that any cut in local aid should be matched with the levy limits in order to replace lost revenue. Councilmember Peterson was in agreement. City Council / November 20, 1990 Page 2 of 3