HomeMy WebLinkAbout2003-03-04 Council Special Meeting MINUTES OF THE SPECIAL WORK SESSION
OF THE EDINA CITY COUNCIL
HELD AT CITY HALL
MARCH 4,2003
6:00 P.M.
ROLLCALL Answering rollcall were Members Housh, Hovland, Masica and Mayor
Maetzold. Member Kelly entered the meeting at 6:15 p.m.
Mayor Maetzold welcomed Sen. Geoff Michel, Rep. Ron Erhardt, and Rep. Alice Seagren to
the work session. He stated the purpose of the work session was to allow the Council and
Edina's legislative contingent to discuss important issues facing both cities and the State.
Mayor Maetzold pointed out three areas of concern to the City:
• State budget situation and subsequent impact on cities
• Sen. Pogemiller's proposed property tax freeze
• Wine with Dinner
Member Hovland added that he would like to discuss transportation as well.
The Council and Legislators discussed the State's current budget situation, noting that Edina
has not received any Local Government Aid (LGA) for many years, acknowledging that the
Market Value Homestead Credit will be eliminated and what legislation was possible that
could further impact Edina. They also discussed levy limits and their impact on fully
developed cities. The Legislators advised that any data showing the percentage of taxes paid
by Edina's citizens be compiled and distributed to legislators in an effort to ensure that Edina
be treated fairly.
Mayor Maetzold explained the City was very concerned about potential Wine with Dinner
legislation. Rep. Erhardt and Rep. Seagren acknowledged that this legislation would come
up again during the current session. Mayor Maetzold pointed out that for over 50 years
Edina has developed their off-sale municipal liquor business. Profits from this business have
been used to keep the City's property tax levy lower. He noted that many other
municipalities also run off-sale liquor stores. Allowing the sale of wine in grocery stores
would have a severe negative impact on these cities.
Member Hovland stated that transportation funding is key to stimulating economic growth.
He said it would be imperative to fund I-494 from the Interstate 494/694/94 interchange to
the Minnesota River near the airport. Member Hovland urged our legislators to bring this
issue to the forefront and keep pushing ahead.
There being no further business, Mayor Maetzold de(c�lared the meeting adjourned at 6:55
p.m. ALL6 () &�M
Debra A. Mange 4, City Clerk
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