Minutes - Council Work Session - 09/07/2004

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Public Work Director Kapler replied some of this work is being delegated. Also, there is a personnel request for a half-time fire secretary. Assistant Public Works Director Olson stated it's difficult to train a secretary to answer every question that could come up. The current Public Works employee does a fantastic job of fielding issues, and she will also become involved in the fire reports. Counci hnember Elvig stated he is excited about the proposal staff has put forward, and they are in a position to ramp up. However, he is also nervous. The City is without a signature fi'om a developer in a critical portion of Town Center, there are issues going north and west, and there is a stall going on with D.R. Horton not building on ground they own. It is a scary time to propose a healthy increase. He wants to stay positive, however, there is a need to watch things because therc may be a need to hold back. It will be a timing issue. City Administrator Norman advised the budget being proposed is preliminary. After the preliminary budget is approved it carmot be increased, however, it can be decreased. He reported two bankers fi'om RTC met with staff and covered all but the last check on the final plat for RTC. Staff has been informed that payment will be received this week. He advised the EDA will be asked to either submit the formal request for another HRA levy or eliminate that levy and replace it with an EDA levy. Staff will be recommending to proceed with the HRA, but to assume the costs internally for 2005 and intend on starting new with the HRA levy beginning in 2006. Councilmember Elvig requested staff to supply the Council with information comparing Ramsey with thc metro area regarding levies. City Administrator Norman explained there is usually a year lag in the information that comes fi'om thc League of Cities. He does have an informal survey from the City Manager of Brooklyn Center that he will forward to the Council. Councilmember Elvig stated it is important to have this information to be able to inform residents of the City's position. Even with the increase, the City's position will likely be low. Consensus oF the Cotmcil was to direct staff to bring forward the preliminary levy and budget as discussed lbr adoption at the September 13th City Council meeting. MAYOR AND COUNCIL NolIc. ADJOURNMENT Motion by Cotmcihnember Cook, seconded by Councilmember Pearson, to adjourn the meeting. Motion carried. City Council Work Session/September 7, 2004 Page 6 of 7