12-05-1994 CC MIN - Laserfiche WebLink

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Elk River City Council Meeting December 5. 1994 Page 2 e 6. Truth in Taxation Budaet Public Hearina City Administrator Pat Klaers indicated that the Truth in Taxation budget and levy public hearing is required by law. He stated that the purpose of the public hearing is to receive pUblic comment on the proposed City of Elk River budget and tax levy for 1995. The City Administrator stated that a balanced budget in the amount of $3,732,250 is proposed. He indicated that this amount represents a 9.94 percent, or $337,500 increase over the adopted 1994 budget. The City Administrator also stated that the City net tax levy for 1995 is $2,223,347. He explained that approximately 80 percent of this amount is used for general fund activities. The balance is used for special assessments, equipment certificates, previous bond issues, the dam loan, the library, and the new surface water management program. The City Administrator reviewed the proposed source of funds for the 1995 budget. The City Administrator also reviewed the proposed expenditures for the 1995 budget. He reviewed each department, explaining the main reasons for proposed increases and decreases in the departments. Mayor Duitsman opened the public hearing. e AI Schrupp, 19462 Ogden Street, stated that his total taxes increased 32 percent. He stated if the City could lower its expense, it could lower its revenues, therefore avoiding some of the increase to the taxpayers. Mr. SChrupp questioned the number of new employees added to the City from 1992 to 1995. He further indicated that the increases in the Finance and Administration budgets far exceed the cost of living increases. Rick Adamski, 1834 Wand Street, indicated his concern regarding the increase in the Police Department budget. He questioned whether it was necessary to have the number of police officers that are on the police force in Elk River. steve Brown, 19727 Lowell, indicated his concern regarding the increase in his property value and property taxes. Daryl Gottemeister, 14393 214th Avenue, indicated he received a 32 percent increase in his City taxes. He questioned why property owners in the outlying areas of the City are required to pay such high taxes. Mayor Duitsman explained the change in the rural/urban taxing districts and the reasons for the surface water management fees. Finance Director Lori Johnson provided some estimated taxes for a variety of properties in the City in relation to the previously proposed storm water management fee. Richard Toth, Zimmerman, questioned whether the storm water management fee would be a one year fee or an annual fee. He further indicated he did not feel the storm water management tax would benefit him in any way. e Pam Tuttle, 13324 Ranch Road, questioned why rural residents pay a higher percentage in taxes than urban residents. She indicated she is opposed to paying for amenities which she does not receive.