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December 5 , 2017 Page 2 of 2 reviewed and it was noted the Council would approve the final budget on December 12th. The Budget Hearing was opened at 6:50 p.m. Susan Erickson, 2012 29th Avenue NW, encouraged the Council to consider lowering the tax levy. She stated the Council should consider who the City was taxing, which was many residents on fixed incomes. She understood the increase was considered a mere cup of coffee, however, it was more than that. She discussed how her property value had increased which had increased her property taxes. She was of the opinion residents would rather have lower taxes than splash pads and other amenities. She requested the Council consider lowering the proposed budget and tax levy. Rick Moses, 29th Avenue, stated he has been a resident of New Brighton for the past 60 years. He thanked staff for the thorough report on the budget and tax levy. He encouraged the Council and City staff to aim for being at or below the rate of inflation. He discussed how increased taxes were impacting seniors on a fixed income. He requested the Council consider helping seniors as he would like to remain in this peaceful community. Gail Nord, 105 Windsor Court, stated she was a proud and happy citizen of New Brighton. She believed the City was well managed and noted the recent survey shows residents are happy with how the City is run. She thanked the City Council and staff for doing a good job in managing the City. Ben Jones, 61 17th Avenue NW, thanked the Council and staff for their work on the budget. He stated he would like further information on the employee pay increases. He commented on the proposed election costs and questioned what was driving the large increase. He provided further comment on the City’s average increases to the budget and stated he would like further information on the Council’s long-term planning. Motion by Councilmember Jacobsen, seconded by Councilmember Burg to close the Budget Hearing. 5 Ayes, 0 Nays - Motion Carried The Budget Hearing was closed at 7:01 p.m. Councilmember Adjournment Mayor Johnson adjourned the Budget Hearing meeting at 7:02 p.m. ___________________________ Valorie Johnson, Mayor ATTEST:______________________________ Terri Spangrud , City Clerk Adjournment The meeting adjourned at 7:02 p .m.