2016.08.23 CC Combined - Laserfiche WebLink

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Gundlach reported the City had the highest permit count ever in 2016. Lotter reviewed the police division changes that would occur in the coming year. He understood the community was very proud of the services provided by the Public Safety Department and the short response times provided by both the Police and Fire. Further discussion ensued regarding the City’s paid on-call fire department and Brightwood Golf Course. The City’s percentage spent on personnel was discussed. Staff provided comment on the City’s property valuation, property tax levels and estimated revenues for the coming year. He noted the Council’s next steps and reported the 2017 preliminary budget would be discussed again by the Council on Tuesday, August 23rd. It was noted a preliminary levy would have to be approved by the Council in September and the final levy would be approved in December. Lotter discussed potential goals per department that were not included within the budget. It was noted the Police Department would like additional Public Service Officers noting these individuals would assist license police officers with community work. In addition, the Parks and Recreation Department would like to hire two maintenance workers to improve the look of the maintenance of the City’s parks. The difference between 180 day and part-time employees was discussed. He explained that staff was trying to perceive the needs of the community to make New Brighton an even better community. Lotter believed the proposed budget and levy was very competitive. He recommended the Council continue to fund the CIP and allow for the additional staffing FTE’s. He then asked the Council for comments or questions. Councilmember Strub appreciated seeing the needs and wants portions of the budget. He appreciated knowing what staff wanted and looked forward to the Council reviewing these items further. Lotter believed that the goals per department that were not included in the budget were all needs, not wants and would assist the City in reaching a higher level of service. Councilmember Jacobsen understood the revenue side of the budget was very conservative. He asked what the biggest expense would be for the Community Center next year. Brueur anticipated the renovation of the Eagle’s Nest would be the largest expense. She commented on how this project would impact revenues. Councilmember Strub wanted to better understand if or how the proposed staffing changes would improve services for residents. Councilmember Burg was not comfortable with stating what she did not approve of within the budget. She was uncertain of the City was properly maintaining its services, given the feedback she received at National Night Out. She wanted to see the level of services maintained if not improved for New Brighton residents. Councilmember Bauman understood Community Development had a low increase and this stood out to her. She thanked staff for that. At first look, she believed the levy increase was quite high, especially when compared to Social Security. Councilmember Jacobsen supported further investment into Parks and Recreation given the fact this department was having increased revenues. However, he did not fully understand the financial impact of the new employees and proposed reclassifications. Lotter described why he was seeking an Assistant City Manager. He believed this position was necessary in order to keep the City covered fully at all times, while also assisting in taking over a portion of his work load.