Agenda - Planning Commission - 02/02/2006

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PSO both transportation consulting and transportation advocacy services. During the December 1, 2005 work session, the 'Council discussed the coming legislative sessions and the most appropriate way to utilize transportation consulting and advocacy services. It was noted that Elwyn Tinklenberg of The Tinldenberg Group would be running for Congress and that Mr. Tinklenberg's time may be limited. Staff was directed to negotiate a contract with Leonard W. Livine & Associates, Inc., for a fixed period of time. City Administrator Norman advised no Council action is necessary, this is an informational item. M~yor Gamec suggested the beginning date of the contract be s_et in 2006. City Administrator Norman replied the contract will be set to begin January 1, 2006. Councilmember Elvig suggested non-disclosure language be included in the contract. Case #22: Report from Finance Committee 1) Review and Adopt 2006 Tax Levy and General Fund Budget Finance Officer Lund reviewed that the 2006 Proposed General Fund Budget, as it has been presented and reviewed in the past several months, is based on the collection of tax dollars and results in an estimated 39.20 tax capacity rate. This budget was balanced through staff recommended adjustments and resulted in a total contingency in the amount of $237,287. The 'overall certified levies for assessed 2005, payable 2006, totals $7,145,414. Ms. Lund indicated the Truth in Taxation heating was held on Monday, December 5, 2005. Approximately 20 residents spoke at the hearing; the majority regarding the market value increase of their property. She explained the determination of property tax includes a formula with a current cap of 15% on the increase in the taxable value. The taxable value was supposed to equal the estimated market value by 2006, but that has been extended to 2008. Finance Officer Lurid advised the recommendation of the Finance Committee was that the Council adopt a resolution adopting the 2005, payable 2006 Municipal Tax Levy and adopt a resolution adopting the 2006 City of Ramsey General Fund Operating Budget. Councilmember El,Ag stated he has received several calls regarding the tax increase. He explained there is not a 15% increase on taxes; the budget has gone up 15%, but the City has gathered additional revenue that will pay for additional police officers, equipment, etc. The tax capacity rate fi.om last year has increased 8%, which includes increases in things like salaries, health insurance, and fuel costs. This is a very reasonable tax increase. Motion by Councilmember Cook, seconded by Councilmember Strommen to ratify the recommendation of the Finance Committee in Case No. 1 and to adopt Resolution #05-12-X.XX Adopting the 2005, Payable 2006 Municipal Tax Levy, and to adopt Resolution #05-12-XXX Adopting the 2006 City of Ramsey General Fund Operating Budget. Motion carried. Voting Yes: Mayor Garnet, Councilmembers Cook, Strommen, Elvig, Jeffrey, and Pearson. Voting No: None. Absent: Councilmember Olson. City Council / December 13, 2005 Page 28 of 37