07-16-2018 CCM - Laserfiche WebLink

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City Council Minutes July 16, 2018 Page 10 Mayor Dietz explained that the fund was receiving a significant return on investment. Currently, if every fire fighter retired tomorrow there would still be money in the account. He believes it is a good idea to reward fire fighters and the increase may act as an incentive for fire fighters to stay the 20 years. Moved by Councihnember Wagner and seconded by Councilmember Olsen to approve an increase for the Elk River Fire Relief Association (ERFRA) benefit level to $7,120 per year of service effective January 1, 2019. Motion carried 5-0. Councilmember Ovall made a motion for a short recess. Council recessed at 8:37 p.m. Council reconvened at 8:43 p.m. 8.3 Select Recreation Facility Option for the Local Sales Tax Referendum Mayor Dietz asked each Councilmember to choose one of the two options, Option 1 a $35,000,000 referendum and Option 2 a $25,000,000 referendum, and give a reason behind their choice. Councilmember Olsen chose Option 1 because it satisfies the conditions of Lion John Weicht Park as well as the rink and a repurposed the activity space. It is a long- term solution. Councilmember Westgaard chose Option 1 because it covers a broader base of community interests. It offers a multipurpose recreational facility and is a better project going forward in long-term planning for the city. Councilmember Ovall stated concerns that there were some missed opportunities which he hopes do not result in a failed referendum. He hopes there are no issues with the Lions' support. He wishes an economic impact study had been done and feels the currently proposed plan is landlocked for future expansion. He felt a community survey would have been beneficial after additional projects had been added to gauge resident support. Having too few fields and rinks can wear things out prematurely if they are overused and the proposed plan includes a solution for future maintenance. Councilmember Ovall supported Option 1. Councilmember Wagner was happy all five Council members seemed to be on the same page and supported Option 1 taking into account future growth within the city. Mayor Dietz stated he had previously proposed cheaper options and would have like to have seen a community survey. However, doing a community survey now would delay the projects another two years. He reviewed each item on the proposed project and how it would benefit all residents. The 0.5% sales tax would equate to a 50 cent tax per $100 spent. If the referendum does not pass, the money to make the repairs 1 0 W f R I I I t NATURE