Agenda - Council - 10/12/2004 - Laserfiche WebLink

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increase, and then look at increasing the fee over a couple of months or at the begim~ing of the year, which would give them the opportunity to notify developers. Mayor Gamec stated the increased fee is probably the right fee, but to be fair they should look at a graduated fee in order to give notice to the developers. Councihnember Cook suggested half of the increase go into effect on the first of the year, with the rest being increased six months later. Counci lmember Elvig questioned if there is a concern of potential lawsuits. Mayor Gamec replied he does not think there is a concern of lawsuits, but someone could question proper notice. He thinks it is a question of being fair. It is questionable whether they need to wait until the end of the year. City Administrator Norman commented developers put their pro formas together and this fee went into effect without any notice. The developers should at least have had some time to plan, and they were not given that opportunity. Councilmember Elvig stated he thinks the amount is correct, and is not above any of the communities nearby. If the question is just the notice and time frame, it would be logical to increase the fee on the first of the year but keep it at the recommended level. City Administrator Norman indicated he does not know if there was a thorough review of the surrounding communities. He noted when the city of Andover prepared for their water treatment plant the Council did a couple of other things that could be considered anti-development. The developers then decided not to build. When there is too dramatic of an increase there may be a long term effect, and it needs to be considered what kind of signal is being sent. He suggested they may want to do a gradual increase with half of the increase at the beginning of the year. Councilmember Strommen stated the bigger policy issue should be looked at, with a policy on rate increases. Councihnember Cook suggested there be a 60-day notice prior to fee increases. Public Works Director Kapler advised part of the storm and sewer study included capital expenditures iu the future, which includes the construction of new wells and water towers. This will be changed the further the fee increase is pushed out. City Administrator Norman suggested citywide fee increases be tied into the Ramsey Resident. Councihnember Cook suggested anyone in the process of preliminary plat be notified of increases that would affect them, and that 60 days given prior to the implementation of the increase. City Council Work Session/September 7, 2004 Page 2 of 7