Agenda - Council - 11/22/2016 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Acting Mayor LeTourneau stated that he is comfortable with the budget as proposed as this will help the City to continue to grow the community. He noted that just because something is in the budget does not mean it will occur and therefore he will support the budget as proposed. Councilmember Shryock stated that while it is great if the City is able to save, using the example of certain projects that may not actually happen in 2017 that are budgeted, she explained that the residents are being taxed on the budget amount. She wanted to ensure that the City is being mindful of what they are budgeting and spending. City Administrator Ulrich stated that this budget seems fair and in line with the strategic planning goals while also holding the line and adding the necessary personnel. Councilmember Riley stated that although there is an increase for the EDA proposed, the item is more in line with marketing and therefore should possibly be considered as a City item rather than an additional EDA cost. The consensus of the Council was in support of the budget as proposed. Finance Director Lund explained that the taxes are not the only item that fund the budget as building permits and other revenue sources provide funding as well. She also explained that although some items do not move forward in a budget year or come in lower than expected, other items come in above the budgeted amount and therefore the budget is a planning document and is not something set in stone. 2.03: Future Business Park: Right of First Refusal Asst. City Administrator/Economic Development Manager Brama reviewed the staff report. Councilmember Riley stated that the EDA is very affirmative of the staff recommendation noting that at the high price the deal no longer makes sense for the City. Acting Mayor LeTourneau agreed that at this price the deal does not make sense for the City. He stated that he is frustrated in the overall business park idea as there was a lot of time and planning put into this model. He challenged the Council to come together to develop a new model for a business park that could bring the park to fruition sooner than originally planned. He used the example of the Armstrong overpass, noting that once the Council was completely committed to the idea they were able to bring the idea to action and explained that he would like to see the same happen for a business park. The consensus of the Council was to pass on the first right of refusal for the property. 3. TOPICS FOR FUTURE DISCUSSION 3.01: Review Future Topics/ Calendar City Council Work Session /November 7, 2016 Page 4 of 5