2015.01.13 CC Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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December 9, 2014 Page 6 of 9 lowered. She believed this was the purpose for these funds. She questioned how the City determined it was being overtaxed by the County and received $101,000 for this over-taxation. City Manager Lotter reported the County levied the incorrect amount and a refund of this over-taxation was then given to the City of New Brighton. He reported these funds would be used to keep the levy low. Councilmember Burg appreciated the efforts from staff to keep the levy low. She requested further comment on the recent reorganizing of staff. City Manager Lotter discussed the staff reorganization at City Hall. He noted the Community Development and Public Works Department were merged. Savings from this merger would assist in defraying increasing health care costs. Councilmember Burg supported the levy and budget as proposed for 2015. Councilmember Strub explained this was his first year partaking in the budget cycle. He believed the proposed budget was reasonable and would provide an array of necessary services to its residents. He understood that staff was valued by the community. He commented that expenses were rising and through all of this, New Brighton was keeping spending level while proposing only a modest tax increase. He stated that his City taxes for 2015 would be lower than in 2008 or 2009. He discussed the positive direction the City was heading through new developments throughout the City and noted how this was benefiting its residents. He found the budget to be modest and reasonable and he offered his full support. Councilmember Jacobsen stated he moved to New Brighton many years ago after viewing properties in surrounding suburbs. He indicated that taxes were lower in New Brighton than its neighboring communities and this has become his home. He believed this was a safe community that provided great services to its residents. He commented the local papers are reporting the metro area was averaging a 4.6% tax levy increase in 2015. He discussed how the City has been addressing its finances and strategic planning in order to keep its levy increases reasonable. He supported the 2015 budget and tax levy increase. Mayor Jacobsen explained that one of his priorities in serving as Mayor was for the City to address long term financial planning, for both fleet and non-fleet expenditures. He was pleased with the advancements the City has made in this area. He thanked City Manager Lotter for addressing this matter and for providing the citizens of New Brighton with a reasonable budget. Councilmember Bauman commented that the $101,000 from the County was a one-time refund. She discussed one time budget dollars and the cost savings measures the City has taken in 2014. She feared how the City would be impacted in 2015. Councilmember Burg thanked Council and staff for their comments. Mayor Jacobsen believed the City was heading in a positive direction and was taking the necessary steps financially to allow this to continue. City Manager Lotter appreciated the outstanding team that surrounded him at City Hall. Motion by Councilmember Burg, seconded by Councilmember Strub to waive the reading and adopt a Resolution approving the final 2015 property tax levy. 4 Ayes, 1 Nays (Bauman)-Motion Carried 3. Consideration of Resolution Adopting the Final 2015 Budgets. Report No. 14-312. City Manager Lotter indicated Finance Director Davitt would be presenting this item to the Council. Finance Director Davitt reviewed the final 2015 general fund budget in detail with the Council. She explained the significant changes to the budget between 2014 and 2015. Staff recommended approval of the final 2015 budget. Motion by Councilmember Burg, seconded by Councilmember Jacobsen to waive the reading and adopt a Resolution approving the final 2015 budgets. 4 Ayes, 1 Nays (Bauman)-Motion Carried 4. Consideration of Resolution Adopting the Final 2015 Tax Levy for Lake Diane Storm 3. Consideration of Resolution Adopting the Final 2015 Budgets. Report No. 14-312.