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I I ,. I Truth in Taxation Hearing Minutes December 5, 1996 Page 4 Truth in Taxation Hearin~. continued City Engineer Les Proper explained that crews were not dispatched after the last storm because it was felt that dropping temperatures would have made the slush deposited near driveways difficult to remove. In hindsight, the streets should have been plowed. The priority system for snow removal provides for 15 % of major routes plowed within 8 hours. Crews are dispatched after a snowfall over 3 inches. After primary routes are cleaned, crews rotate the order of remaining streets. Because New Brighton experienced growth in 1955 and 1975, much of the infrastructure is scheduled for rehabilitation. In regards to decreased police presence, Benke said one officer was removed from patrol to staff D.A.R.E. and the crime watch program required staffing. The main thrust of the budget is to place another officer on the street and staff the crime prevention program. In addition, staff has received numerous requests for speed enforcement. The neighborhood crime watch program is an excellent way to protect your neighborhood. Police Chief John Kelley confirmed that the City currently has 24 sworn officers. Walter Martin, 2439 - 17th Ave., commends the street crew and recent sealcoating assists in street clearing. He would like to see more police patrols and curfew enforcement. Kelley supports curfew enforcement, and a curfew center would allow for specialists to determine if there are underlying issues associated with the violation. Benke noted the Santa Cop program initiated by New Brighton Police which helps to provide early intervention into childhood so to maintain a healthy environment. Larson said his son's car was broken into last week when it sat in the driveway. He believes that residents should call the Police if a strange car is parked on the street for over 24 hours or if suspicious things occur in their neighborhood. Benke feels New Brighton needs to take a concentrated effort and a get tough reputation. Leon feels the on-street parking ordinance has not been enforced. Benke said the ordinance is being enforced, but acknowledged the limited resources to provide enforcement. Samuelson's daughter was ticketed for overnight parking recently. Leon asked if staff developed a time line for street rehabilitation projects. Egan stated that the City undertakes a five year planning process each year to identify upcoming projects. The 1997 budget includes $850,000 for street rehabilitation. When a street project is underway, staff makes inspections to ensure work is performed correctly. Benke suggested residents contact City Hall if there are additional comments relating to the budget. The final adoption of the budget will occur December 18. There were no other comments from the audience. Motion by Larson, seconded by Samuelson, to CLOSE THE PUBLIC HEARING. ~. 5 Ayes - 0 Nayes, Motion Carried. Hearing was closed at 9:06 p.m. ~~ Robert J. e, Mayor ATTEST: Truth in Taxation Hearing Report 96-257 A