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Councilmember Tossey stated he would support forcing a five -year sunset so the City Council <br />can review the property taxes collected, which he anticipates will be increasing. He stated he <br />would not want the City to be flush with money while still collecting franchise fees. <br />Mayor Strommen supported a five -year sunset but her short-term concern is increasing the levy <br />to the maximum in addition to starting a franchise fee. Rather, she supported one funding stream <br />for the SMP. <br />Councilmember Riley stated all agree to restricting use of the funds and asked whether it can be <br />done through the audit. <br />Finance Director Lund stated it would be established as a committed fund. <br />Councilmember Riley stated he likes the idea of using the original levy and not the maximum <br />levy plus franchise fees. <br />Mayor Strommen asked for comment on a rebate program for residents who are currently paying <br />a road assessment. <br />It was the unanimous consensus of the City Council to support a rebate program similar to Elk <br />River's program. <br />Mr. Kingston pointed out that some residents may have paid their assessment in full. <br />Councilmember Riley suggested that be considered for the past number of years. <br />Councilmember Tossey agreed that even if the assessment was paid in full, the property owner <br />should not have to also pay a franchise fee during the term of the assessment. <br />Councilmember LeTourneau stated he wants the franchise fee language to clearly state it is for a <br />dedicated Ramsey Road Maintenance Fund. <br />Councilmember Riley asked if there is support for a flat franchise fee of $7 per month per utility. <br />Councilmember LeTourneau supported a franchise fee rate of $8 per month per utility or higher <br />to assure there is adequate funding to meet the need and eliminate a shortfall. <br />Finance Director Lund reviewed the annual revenues raised based on franchise fees. <br />The majority consensus of the City Council supported a franchise fee at $8 /month/utility (both <br />residential and commercial) that is dedicated for roads, a five -year sunset with "lockbox" <br />language, no special assessments, and a rebate program for property owners already paying a <br />road assessment. <br />City Council Work Session / September 3, 2013 <br />Page 10 of 12 <br />