Agenda - Charter Commission - 03/14/2014 - 2013 Annual Report

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Letter to The Honorable Judge Hoffman March 14, 2014 Page 2 of 2 discussion with Commissioners, Councilmembers, City staff and residents, the Commission voted to request that the City Council review and provide feedback regarding a possible amendment to Charter Chapter 10, Section 10.4, line 4, “Power of regulation reserved”, as follows: “…except that any franchise fees imposed under applicable State Statutes must be limited to defray increased municipal costs accrued as a result of utility operations and my not be used to raise general operating revenue.” Six members voted in favor, one against, and one was absent. There was one vacant seat on the Charter Commission. The Commission requested further information from the City Attorney, at a subsequent meeting, regarding Chapter 2, Sections 2.3 and 2.5 respectively, pertaining to Council elections and vacancies. The Charter Commission held a joint work session with the City Council on November 19, 2013. Newest member Mark Anderson was sworn in and introduced. The main topic of discussion was the Long Term Street Maintenance Program and funding sources. City Engineer Bruce Westby presented the Commission with background relating to the Street Maintenance Program, followed by a joint discussion of funding alternatives and pros and cons of each. The Council and the Commission focused on three viable funding alternatives (franchise fees, special assessments, and general property tax levy) and discussed opportunities and actions for each. The Charter Commission held no other meetings in 2013. Very truly yours, On behalf of the Ramsey City Charter Commission Jo Ann M. Thieling, CMC City Clerk