Laserfiche WebLink
Councilmember Kuzma stated that everyone must recognize that the public works facility will <br />raise taxes to some degree and there are studies being completed that could result in additional <br />improvements that may increase taxes. He stated that franchise fees would provide a dedicated <br />funding source for roads at a small monthly cost to residents. He stated that seems to be the most <br />logical method to provide a dedicated funding source for roads. <br /> <br />Councilmember Musgrove commented that while residents do not want tax increases, they <br />would support an increase in taxes for roads. She stated that she would be open to the levy <br />option. She asked that staff provide information to her on the difference in cost between the levy <br />and bonding. <br /> <br />Finance Director Lund confirmed that she could share that information with the Council. She <br />commented that in regard to the levy there is the public works facility and capital equipment that <br />will come forward as additional debt. She stated that the biggest payer of the levy increases are <br />the businesses because businesses have the highest property values. <br /> <br />Councilmember Specht stated that the franchise fee is a tax but done in a different way. He <br />stated that the Council must decide what is most fair and equitable. He stated that many <br />residents receive property tax refunds. <br /> <br />Councilmember Riley agreed that franchise fees are a tax. He asked if staff has looked to <br />determine if there is perhaps a sweet spot at which a combination of levy increase and franchise <br />fees could be used. <br /> <br />Finance Director Lund stated that staff has not investigated that method. <br /> <br />Councilmember Riley stated that perhaps staff investigate that option for further review. <br /> <br />The consensus of the Council was to direct staff to focus on franchise fees but also investigate <br />options related to a straight tax levy. <br /> <br />City Administrator Ulrich stated that it is clear that the assessment method will not move <br />forward, and staff will prepare additional information to review the other options. <br /> <br />2.02: Provide Direction on Curbside Recycling Program <br /> <br />Mayor LeTourneau recognized the time constraints for this case, noting that this could move <br />forward for discussion and if needed, this could continue to the regular meeting. <br /> <br />City Planner Chris Anderson reviewed the staff report. <br /> <br />Councilmember Heinrich stated that she is happy with ACE and the service they provide, <br />recognizing that ACE is a local business. She stated that she is an advocate for obtaining <br />requests for proposals and would like to see that as an option. <br /> <br />City Council Work Session / May 12, 2020 <br />Page 5 of 7 <br /> <br />