Minutes - Council Work Session - 05/22/2018

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Councilmember Kuzma stated that his concern with going through that process is that the public at large does not pay attention to most things and it's the small group of opposition that attempts to change the direction. Councilmember Shryock stated that written information can be available and perhaps a few open house times. She noted that no matter what the City does, there will be negative people. Councilmember Riley stated that the City would also need to determine what would be fair for the people that have already, or are still, paying assessments. He stated that it would be helpful to show that a large tax increase will be coming if the financing for roads does not change. He stated that it would be helpful to show that this method for funding would perhaps decrease taxes. Acting Mayor LeTourneau provided background information on the last time this topic was discussed. He noted that there was a lot of misinformation and a group of people opposed to the topic that came out strong. He stated that the City should start out generating conversations about the tax burden and current road financing and then sharing the options and allowing the residents to come to the conclusion on the best option. He stated that he would be afraid of rushing things and having a repeat situation. Councilmember Kuzma stated that if this is not put on the election, this is a normal election. He stated that next year would have to be a special election or the City would need to wait an additional two years for another regular election. Councilmember Shryock stated that she would like a refresher on the timeline in order to have something appropriate on the ballot. She stated that it may be helpful for residents to have a similar presentation that the Council viewed a few weeks ago that provided the different funding options. City Administrator Ulrich stated that the deadline to submit the question to the County would be August 24th. He noted that the educational components could begin before that time. Councilmember Riley agreed that this has to be done right and he does not want to wait past this election cycle. Councilmember Kuzma agreed with Councilmember Riley's comments. He stated that his concern is that when there is an open house there are maybe 30 people, which is only a small portion of the population. He stated that the Council was elected to lead, and they know what's coming and therefore should plan to lead this forward. Councilmember Shryock agreed that there will be decision making that needs to occur. She stated that any public education efforts will be helpful, using the website and Ramsey Resident to share helpful information that will not be misinterpreted. City Council Work Session/May 22,2018 Page 5 of 8