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Commissioner S. Anderson suggested that the HRA should have appointed separate members, <br />not members of the City Council. <br />Commissioner Zaetsch noted the purpose of a Charter Commission is to chart a different course <br />other than allowed by Statute, unless the Statute expressly restricts a Charter from adding <br />restrictions. He suggested additional language that no more than three 3) Councilmembers can <br />serve on an Authority. <br />Chairperson Field felt that the Charter may not have the power to restrict this statute. <br />Commissioner Deemer summarized that the Charter can be stricter than State Statute, but cannot <br />be less restrictive. <br />Commissioner S. Anderson questioned the provision that one-third of the board can be non- <br />residents. She suggested that perhaps this amendment include a provision that all members be <br />residents of Ramsey. <br />Commissioner Deemer responded that perhaps this provision was to allow City staff to serve on <br />an Authority. <br />Discussion ensued about non-residents serving on Authorities. <br />Community Development Director Gladhill reviewed make-up of the EDA and the business <br />community. He also reviewed the powers of the Planning Commission. <br />Chairperson Field reviewed the policy issues of advisory boards and authorities. <br />Commissioner Bendtsen expressed concerns re accountability if too many boards and <br />commissions are established with too much taxation authority. <br />Commissioner Barrows asked if the question at hand was the powers of authorities prevents the <br />citizens from having a voice and limiting that authority. <br />Commissioner Zaetsch mentioned a bonding cap, but authorities are not subject to this cap. He <br />stated that Statute 475 mentions debt limit. <br />Discussion ensued about a Charter Commission amendment limiting debt issued by the City. <br />Commissioner Bendtsen mentioned an amendment to this would prevent an authority from <br />avoiding a cap on debt service. <br />Commissioner S. Anderson asked if this would restrict the City from building infrastructure such <br />as a community center. <br />Commissioner Zaetsch replied this would give the citizens a vote. <br />Charter Commission/ July 13, 2016 <br />Page 6 of 8 <br />