Agenda - Council - 02/23/2021 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Ramsey would need to fund through its general fund or other City funds. He stated that if the district were decertified those funds would be distributed to Anoka County and other taxing entities. He reviewed some of the infrastructure that is being paid for through TIF, noting that the cost for those improvements continues to be paid back through the TIF district. He noted that there are also a number of future infrastructure needs that would continue to make The COR viable for additional commercial development. He stated that the TIF district continues to make the opportunity for commercial and business development more attractive and viable. Mayor Kuzma commented that it also allows Ramsey to be more competitive with other communities that have TIF available. Councilmember Musgrove asked the length of the extension. City Administrator Ulrich replied that this extension would be for five years and confirmed that an additional extension could be considered if desired at that time. He commented that there is an eventual lifespan of the TIF district. Councilmember Woestehoff stated that he likes the idea of pulling some of the policy items for additional discussion. He stated that the item related to the Governors Executive Order does not seem to have much description to it. He understood and agreed that small businesses are struggling but did not think the finger could be pointed at one person. He commented that it is a broad statement that he does not agree with and would want to see it narrowed down. Councilmember Specht commented that he agrees with Councilmember Howell that there is an issue of timeliness in getting that control away from one person and back to local authorities. Motion by Councilmember Specht, seconded by Councilmember Musgrove, to Adopt the 2021 City of Ramsey Legislative Platform as presented. Motion carried. Voting Yes: Mayor Kuzma, Councilmembers Specht, Musgrove, and Riley. Voting No: Councilmembers Howell and Woestehoff. 7.04: Adopt Resolution #21-046 Resolution Supporting Legislation Adopting Minnesota Tax Conformity for Payroll Protection Plan (PPP) Loans City Administrator Ulrich reviewed the staff report and recommendation to adopt Resolution #21- 046. Councilmember Riley commented that this is help to almost all Ramsey businesses that would conform to federal guidelines as to taxing for PPP loans. He stated that without acting, Minnesota is saying that they want part of that back. He commented that he is a CPA and there is a lobbyist on behalf of the CPAs moving on this, noting that this is also supported by the National Association of CPAs. He stated that Minnesota stated that this change would result in a loss of income for the State, but the State did not count on this revenue as it did not exist before the Federal Government allocated these funds to help businesses and therefore it should not be seen as a reduction in income for Minnesota. He asked that the other members of the Council support this proposed action. City Council / February 8, 2021 Page7of12