Minutes - Council - 12/21/2006 - Special Meeting

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even though the City of Ramsey is cutting back, the City is still lower or staying in line with what other cities are doing. Mayor Gamec referenced an article in the December 17, 2006 issue of Minneapolis Star Tribune. Mayor Gamec stated that Ramsey's proposed tax rate was lower than most neighboring cities. Mayor Gamec noted that the City of Andover's valuation is higher and they don't offer the services that Ramsey does, but their taxes are about the same or higher for the same value home. Mayor Gamec referenced other nearby cities with higher taxation. Mayor Gamec stated that people wanted to look at dollars that they pay and Ramsey is still a very frugal or in line city. Councilmember Jeffrey stated that he didn't want to look at any other mid-year changes but to make sure that Ramsey is hitting their budget projections to avoid surprises. Councilmember Pearson concurred that Staff should be commended for their work on the budget. Motion by Councilmember Pearson, seconded by Councilmember Strommen, to adopt Resolution #06-12-388, Adopting the 2006, Payable 2007, Municipal Tax Levy with a Tax Rate of39.4375%. Discussion: Finance Officer Lund stated that the 2007 budget with the $110,000 cut IS $10,514,794, representing a $253,000 increase over 2006. Motion carried. Voting Yes: Mayor Gamec, Councilmembers Pearson, Strommen, Elvig, and Jeffrey. Voting No: None. Absent: Councilmembers Cook and Olson Case #3: Authorization for Acquisition for Future Northwest Metro Corridor River Crossing (Boike Property) This item was tabled. MAYOR, COUNCIL AND STAFF INPUT Mayor Gamec indicated there was concern about various things that have been done during the year, and whether the City Council members could add personal funds to the activities or events to make them happen rather than have a charge for employees. Mayor Gamec stated that other Councilmembers look at this as a special service from them and their families when they come to the event to show appreciation for Staff s work and service. Mayor Gamec asked Assistant City Administrator Nelson whether she had any idea of a proposed cost for the event. City Administrator Norman left the Council chambers during this discussion. Assistant City Administrator Nelson stated that she was looking for direction for funding. Ms. Nelson stated the annual employee recognition celebration was scheduled for Friday, January 12. Ms. Nelson stated the original intent was to have a fee associated with the event. Ms. Nelson asked if the Councilmembers wanted to participate in funding with a not to exceed amount. Special City Council / December 21, 2006 Page 6 of8