Minutes - Council - 12/06/2004 - Truth in Taxation

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Ms. Lund presented information relating t° where the City of Ramsey falls with regard to taxes in comparison with other cities of Similar size. She noted the City is the fifth lowest in tax capacity rates. Ms. Lund explained how all budgets haVe to balance. The total General Fund budget equals $8,806,017.00 in comparison t° .$7,785,449.00 for 2004, which represents a 13% increase. The revenue portion includes property taxes, investment earnings, payment for services, permits, etc. She noted the property tax dollar is the biggest portion of the revenue. The license and permits amount is based on 702 new homes. Ms. Lund refen:ed to the expenditure side and the overall breakdown. The general fund budget is five categories: general government - 28:05%, public safety - 42.69%, public works - 17.68%, park and recreation - 9.2%, and other - 2.38% debt service interfund transfers. She continued through the general government services'- Mayor and Council, Commissions, Administrative services, fines, elections, and newsletters. She summarized what the departments have requested and stated that the numbers have to be to the State before December 30. Ms. Lund explained the majority of increases are an increase in staff, and the increase in cost of living. Mayor Gamec stated the budget items are available at the City. Mayor Gamec stated Anoka County seems to be higher than other Counties in as far as increase in tax levies. He stated Anoka County seems to be the fastest growing County and also the fact that LGA was eliminated from Ramsey a year and a half ago. He stated because they could not hire, they have fallen behind on some maintenance items and are now trying to get caught up. He thought with growth in the City, they will :soon be caught up and will not see a large increase in the City. Mayor Gamec stated they have mainly looked at service to people and that was their main goal, to malce sure they were back up to date on those items. Mr. Arlen N. Peal, 14810 Nowthen Boulevard, asked if they will have to pay for sealcoating on Nowthen Boulevard. He stated there are trucks breaking up the road. Mayor Gamec thought the County handled that road and will take care of that completely. He stated any roads that are County roads are taken care of through the County budget. Mr. Peal stated on 148th Lane, there is a school there and he proposed a speed limit being put south of there. Mayor Gamec stated they are looking at installing a flashing light for the school only but they cannot drop the speed limit because of the State Regulation and funding needed. He stated they were able to lower the speed limit during school hours for safety. City Council Truth in Taxation/December 6, 2004 page 2 of 4