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HomeMy WebLinkAbout19971203_specialMINUTES OF THE SPECIAL MEETING OF THE EDINA CITY COUNCIL HELD AT CITY HALL ON DECEMBER 3 1997AT 5:OO P.M. ROLLCALL Answering rollcall were Members Faust, Kelly, Maeztold and Mayor Smith. TRUTH IN TAXATION PUBLIC HEARING HELD FOR PROPOSED 1998 CITY BUDGET. Pursuant to published notice given, the Edina City Council conducted a public hearing on the proposed property tax increase in the 1998 Budget for the City of Edina, as mandated by Chapter 375, Laws of Minnesota 1993. Mayor Smith stated the purpose of the Truth in Taxation hearing would focus on the proposed 1998 City of Edina Budget. The budget review relates to the moneys' source and how they are expended on the various functions and services of the City. Residents with questions relating to the valuation placed on their homes should plan to appear at the Board of Review in April of 1998. Mayor Smith explained that the Minnesota legislature determines the tax rate structure of residential property. In addition, Mayor Smith explained that Council would not adopt the City's final property tax levy and final budget at the hearing but at a subsequent Council meeting. The Budget process began with the formulation of budget assumptions at a series of meetings in July. After reviewing the budget assumptions, Council directed staff to come back with a detailed draft budget broken down by departments. He stated that the proposed 1998 Budget totals $17,913,763 and represents a 4.88% increase or $834,084 over the 1997 Budget. Lila Larson, 4800 School Road, stated she is not complaining about taxes, but is dismayed over the lack of services, specifically services to senior citizens. The existing senior center facility does not encourage seniors in fragde conditions to use it. Ms. Larson stated she is eager to have the City look at its cifizens needs. Ms. Larson informed the Council Edina has the largest senior citizen population in Minnesota. She is willing to pay additional taxes to see their needs are met. Mayor Smith noted the proposed budget for 1998 does contain monies to explore the options available to the City for a Senior Center. Manager Rosland confirmed the Park Board has reviewed the Senior Center and staff will bring this issue before the Council shortly after the first of the year. Mayor Smith recessed the meeting from 5:lO p.m. to 5:20 p.m. to allow any other citizens time to arrive and have an opportunity to speak. Mayor Smith reconvened the Truth In Taxation Hearing at 5:20 p.m. Kay Bach, 6625 Dakota Trail, explained she has for years thought she would come and say good things. Ms. Bach complimented the City on the extraordinary job they do with a small budget. Mayor Smith closed the public hearing and explained the Council will consider the 1998 Budget at the December 15,1997, meeting. There being no further business on the Council Agenda, Mayor Smith called for a motion to adjourn the meeting at 5:25 pm. Member Maetzolld made a motion to adjourn the meeting. Member Faust seconded the motion. Ayes: Faust, Kelly, Maetzold, and Mayor Smith Meeting adjourned.