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Further discussion: Commissioner Walker asked why the fees have not been raised in the past <br /> three years, noting that everything costs more money now than it did three years ago. He <br /> referenced the anticipated future needs, using the example of the dog park discussions. He <br /> commented that real estate value continues to increase, and the fees should increase in a relative <br /> manner. Parks & Assistant Public Works Superintendent Riverblood stated that the City Council <br /> also provides input and the desire to welcome certain developments. He stated that the <br /> Commission can make a different recommendation for the Park Dedication rates related to <br /> residential development. Commissioner Sis stated that while the cost of playground equipment <br /> and other materials has increased, he believed that there was a decrease in the cost of paving this <br /> past year. Parks &Assistant Public Works Superintendent Riverblood provided additional clarity <br /> on the difference in costs and actual costs for paving and trails. He also provided explanation on <br /> the use of charitable gambling funds. Chair Bennett stated that there were previous concerns <br /> expressed that if the City was not competitive in terms of fees, Ramsey would not be competitive <br /> in terms of development opportunity. Commissioner Walker asked for information on the rates of <br /> other communities. Chair Bennett replied that Ramsey was slightly below some cities previously <br /> but ended up rating fairly competitively. Parks & Assistant Public Works Superintendent <br /> Riverblood stated that action could be tabled on this matter with clear direction for what the <br /> Commission would like to review at the November meeting, which would still be on schedule for <br /> the Council review prior to the end of the year. He stated that typically Ramsey has ranked slightly <br /> below the median for development fees as the Council has desired to remain competitive. He <br /> stated that the rates will vary and provided the example of Anoka, which is almost built out and <br /> therefore may have higher rates, and Nowthen which has low rates because there is comparatively <br /> less development. Commissioner Sis asked if staff would have sufficient time to bring this matter <br /> back in November and then forward to the Council to remain on schedule. Parks & Assistant <br /> Public Works Superintendent Riverblood stated that there should not be an issue. <br /> Commissioner Sis withdrew his motion to allow for further exploration and discussion. <br /> Parks & Assistant Public Works Superintendent Riverblood asked for input on what information <br /> the Commission would like to review at the November meeting. <br /> Commissioner Sis stated that he would like to see the rates of comparable communities. <br /> Commissioner Barten stated that he would be interested in Elk River, Otsego, and Rogers. <br /> Commissioner Walker mentioned Coon Rapids. Blaine was also mentioned. <br /> Parks & Assistant Public Works Superintendent Riverblood stated that staff would review the <br /> neighboring communities and would also review five cities of comparable population in different <br /> areas of the metro. <br /> Commissioner Leistico asked if there would be a manner to determine if the actual costs are being <br /> covered in the rates. She agreed with the statement of Commissioner Walker that everything has <br /> increased in cost in the past three years and wanted to ensure that the City's costs are covered in <br /> attempt to meet the future desires of the park system. <br /> Park and Recreation Commission/October 14, 2021 <br /> Page 7 of 9 <br />