City Council Minutes

Pursuant to due call and posted notice thereof, the City Council Workshop of the Victoria City Council was called to order at 5:03 p.m. by Mayor Hershberger Thun in the Council Chambers at 7951 Rose.

Members Present: Mayor: Mary Hershberger Thun. Councilmembers: Tim Amundsen, Jim Paulsen, Kim Roden, and Rick Tieden.

Absent: None.

Staff Present: Holly Kreft, City Planner; Jylan Johnson, Finance Director; Bruce Osborn, Public Works Superintendent; and Tom Gray, Building Official.

Others Present: Scott Manion, Finance Committee; and Sue Orsen, Victoria Gazette.
 

Ms. Johnson presented the updated tax impact analysis for the 2008 budget. The proposed levy for 2008 is $4,138,699, which is an increase of 11.36 percent over 2007.

Councilmember Tieden arrived at 5:10 p.m.

Ms. Johnson stated the Council previously discussed whether the property tax statement could break down or provide detail of the City’s portion of tax; the answer is no. She explained, however, that the City can provide its own supplement, to be distributed with the statement of proposed property taxes. She estimated that supplement may cost the City $1,000 to $2,000. Another option is for the City to send out its own mailing.

Councilmember Roden recommended the City prepare the supplemental mailing for the residents, as the cost is minimal in the overall scheme of things. Mayor Hershberger Thun concurred.

The Council decided not to handle the mailing through the County, but instead consider distributing it on the City level, perhaps in a separate mailing or with the water bill.

Councilmember Amundsen arrived at 5:20 p.m.

Discussion was held regarding the capital improvement budget for the fire department.

Ms. Johnson highlighted the changes in the budget since the previous workshop. She noted there is an additional $24,000 budgeted for the salary of the future parks and recreation director, which will be added to the general budget.

Mr. Urbia noted there will likely be change within the Field House budget from the interim management to the permanent management, so the stated salaries are really placeholders at this point.

The Council discussed increasing the City’s reserve in an effort to improve its bond rating.

Ms. Johnson noted the Chamber of Commerce has asked for $7,500 from the City. In years past, they have asked for $5,000. It was noted the Chamber will have a representative present at the Council meeting tonight to discuss the request.

Mr. Manion noted the finance committee has discussed increasing the salary for the Mayor and the Council.

Mr. Manion questioned the $19,000 budgeted for the Lake Minnetonka Conservation District. Ms. Johnson noted that is required by statute and is based on population and property values.

Mr. Manion noted in public works, there is $26,000 budgeted for repairing doors, driveways, and a fence, while a new public works building is slated for 2008. Ms. Johnson noted it was budgeted primarily due to security and safety issues.

Mr. Urbia added that if public works moves to a different site, that money will not be spent in 2007.

Discussion was held regarding funds budgeted for an additional piece of equipment for the parks and recreation department and whether it should be taken out of the capital improvement fund for public works.

Ms. Johnson noted the Council will be asked tonight to adopt the preliminary levy and budget for 2008.

Councilmember Paulsen brought up the issue of the $669,500 due to be expended in 2009 under the terms of the land swap agreement. Selling City property or developing would be the two best options to help with those costs.

Ms. Kreft reported the three properties are for sale downtown and no offers have been received at this point. She noted she has met with three developers interested in the 13.5 acres, and it is possible one may submit a proposal. However, she believes the City may have to expend more funds on infrastructure because of access issues and TH 5. The Council discussed the City’s current and future investment in the 13.5 acres.

The workshop adjourned at 6:17 p.m.
 

Respectfully submitted,

Allison Burr
TimeSaver Off Site Secretarial, Inc.