Resolution - #16-03-053 - 03/08/2016

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Councilmember Johns introduced the following resolution and moved for its adoption: RESOLUTION #16-03-053 RESOLUTION SUPPORTING PRINCIPLES FOR REFORM OF THE METROPOLITAN COUNCIL WHEREAS, regional planning and local government cooperation is vital to the continued success of the Minneapolis -St. Paul Metropolitan Area; and WHEREAS, the Metropolitan Council is, by statute, the regional planning agency for the Minneapolis -St. Paul Metropolitan Area, with broad authority, including the ability to levy taxes, charge fees and set regional policy; and WHEREAS, cities and counties are directly affected by policies and financial decisions of the Metropolitan Council, making them primary constituents of the Metropolitan Council; and WHEREAS, the City of Ramsey has had a long-standing relationship with the Metropolitan Council on Comprehensive Planning, housing policy, housing projects, and transportation projects; and WHEREAS, a governmental entity with taxing authority must be responsible, responsive, and accountable to those it represents; and WHEREAS, the appointment of Metropolitan Council members resides solely with the Governor; and WHEREAS, many cities and counties believe that the authority to impose taxes and set regional policy should include local government elected officials. NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF RAMSEY, ANOKA COUNTY, STATE OF MINNESOTA, as follows: 1) That reform to the Metropolitan Council should ensure that the Metropolitan Council is a responsible, responsive, and accountable partner for regional development and progress; and 2) That, in order to recognize the responsibility that the Metropolitan Council has to local units of government, local governments shall have a decision role in the appointment process for representatives to the Metropolitan Council; and 3) That, in order to promote the stability and continuity of governance, the terms of office for Metropolitan Council members shall be staggered; and