Minutes - Charter Commission - 11/19/2013 - Joint with CC

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Councilmember LeTourneau stated the issue is simple: fix the roads or do not fix the roads. He added he can be persuaded that fixing the roads is important. He noted the City Council and Charter Commission intended to have an open discussion regarding funding options for the City's streets maintenance. He expressed his frustration that the Charter Commission does not appear to have confidence in the City Council's handling of this process, although the City Council is working within the guidelines of the franchise statute. Councilmember LeTourneau stated he is ready to make tough choices to make Ramsey a better community. He noted he will continue to listen and, work within the City's guidelines. Chairperson Field stated it is unprecedented that the City Council and Charter Commission would come together to discuss the creation of a funding source- with no limitations. He added the Charter Commission is not attempting to involve itself in this decision, as their function is not to regulate the City Council. He noted, however, the Charter Commission is concerned with the long -term protection of the City and its residents. Chairperson Field stated the Commission felt it was important to forward the proposed amendment to the City Council for discussion purposes. He added he hoped the meeting was beneficial for the participants. Mayor Strommen thanked the Work Session participants for coming to the meeting and participating in the discussion. City Attorney Langel stated, with regard to the time frame, the City Council received the Charter Commission's recommendation on October 22, and a public hearing is scheduled for December 10. He added the City Council would vote on the proposal at their first regular meeting in January 2014. Commissioner Niska stated he would not be able to attend the City Council regular meeting on December 10, 2013. He wanted to bring that up, since he authored the proposed amendment. 2.04: Consider Opportunities and Action for Each Funding Alternative The City Council and Charter Commission focused on three viable funding alternatives, and discussed the possible solutions associated with each. City Administrator Ulrich recorded possible .solutions related to franchise fees: • Franchise fees would have a higher commercial rate • Limitations within the Charter document to regulate franchise fees would be necessary, including a 5 -year sunset • Create equity by only charging for electric utilities • The Charter Commission has already proposed a Charter' language amendment • A reporting requirement could be added to ensure franchise fee transparency City Administrator Ulrich recorded possible solutions related to special assessments: • A moratorium on assessments could be imposed while franchise fees are in effect • Special assessments require additional funding • A Charter document amendment to increase the threshold would generate more revenue • A lower fixed percentage could be included in the Charter language amendment City Council Work Session / November 19, 2013 Page 14 of 15