Contact us privately with City information, news and personal stories. All contact information will be kept private and not posted on the blog unless requested.
Email Centervilleblog@yahoo.com
Thursday, August 21, 2008
County 14 Additional Spending By City Officials
This is an email response from the Anoka County Commissioner, Rhonda Sivarajah regarding the county road 14 budget and how our officials chose to increase spending. It may be time to call for a State audit to see exactly what else they have been up to. We wish to extend a thank you to Rhonda for her assistance!
Sent: Monday, August 18, 2008 10:31 PM
Subject: Re: Centerville Budget--additional information
I also wanted to pass along this information regarding the County Rd.14 Main Street project. As you can see in the article below, the administrator seems to be trying to put blame on the County Rd. 14 project for large tax increases. This is not an accurate statement. In fact, if you look at the information provided by our highway dept. at the bottom of the page, you can see that for the entire road project, they actually have very little cost after taking into account the federal dollars and the $125,000 they will be reimbursed for the trail after completion. The greatest costs they are incurring are costs that the county is not requiring as part of the project, but rather are a city decision to add streetscaping to the project. If you look at the dollars being spent you can see that Centerville's costs that are required are just a small fraction of what they are choosing to spend. Here is the article from the Citizen printed in June 2008 Extra Tax Burden Of Project Considered Every home in the city will face an extra $364 on its annual tax bill if a scaled-down version of the 2009 street improvement project goes ahead. That was the result of analysis done by city staff on the tax burden facing residents next year if a smaller project, costing $4.5 million in total, is given the go-ahead by the Centerville City Council. The findings were presented to the council at its May 28 meeting. The figure of $364.11 is calculated for a typical $250,000 property and is made up of $148.20 for the shared, city portion of the street improvement project, $107.95 for the city's share of the CSAH-14project and $107.95 for the city's share of the Backage Road project. Citizens face having to pay the CSAH-14 and Backage Road portions of the total regardless of whether the council orders the 2009 street improvement project. Below is a breakdown of expenses related to the road project as outlined by our highway dept. Below is a summary of Centerville's costs associated with items required for the reconstruction of Main St. (CSAH 14).
Total Project Construction Cost
- $13,485,213.49
Centerville's Total Responsibilities
- $1,211,496.49 (8.98% of Const. Cost)
Federal Funds Prorated/Credited to Centerville
- $272,410.00
Centerville's Cost for Upgraded Utilities
- $163,700.82
Centerville's Cost for Streetscaping
-$517,007.80
Centerville's Cost due to County Project
$258,377.87 (1.92% of Const. Cost)
Of the $96,919.72 we will charge the city for engineering & administration of the contract that is in addition to these construction costs, $54,456.69 is due to the city's enhanced utility work and streetscaping. Note too that the trail and sidewalk costs are included in the city's> costs due to the road construction (not identified as a city option), and they will be reimbursed $125,000 for a portion of the trail costs via the Metro Trail grant program after the trail is completed which will further reduce the city's total obligation towards the project.
Sincerely,
Rhonda Sivarajah
Anoka County Commissioner
763-274-4213
Contact us privately with City information, news and personal stories. All contact information will be kept private and not posted on the blog unless requested.Email Centervilleblog@yahoo.com
Sent: Monday, August 18, 2008 10:31 PM
Subject: Re: Centerville Budget--additional information
I also wanted to pass along this information regarding the County Rd.14 Main Street project. As you can see in the article below, the administrator seems to be trying to put blame on the County Rd. 14 project for large tax increases. This is not an accurate statement. In fact, if you look at the information provided by our highway dept. at the bottom of the page, you can see that for the entire road project, they actually have very little cost after taking into account the federal dollars and the $125,000 they will be reimbursed for the trail after completion. The greatest costs they are incurring are costs that the county is not requiring as part of the project, but rather are a city decision to add streetscaping to the project. If you look at the dollars being spent you can see that Centerville's costs that are required are just a small fraction of what they are choosing to spend. Here is the article from the Citizen printed in June 2008 Extra Tax Burden Of Project Considered Every home in the city will face an extra $364 on its annual tax bill if a scaled-down version of the 2009 street improvement project goes ahead. That was the result of analysis done by city staff on the tax burden facing residents next year if a smaller project, costing $4.5 million in total, is given the go-ahead by the Centerville City Council. The findings were presented to the council at its May 28 meeting. The figure of $364.11 is calculated for a typical $250,000 property and is made up of $148.20 for the shared, city portion of the street improvement project, $107.95 for the city's share of the CSAH-14project and $107.95 for the city's share of the Backage Road project. Citizens face having to pay the CSAH-14 and Backage Road portions of the total regardless of whether the council orders the 2009 street improvement project. Below is a breakdown of expenses related to the road project as outlined by our highway dept. Below is a summary of Centerville's costs associated with items required for the reconstruction of Main St. (CSAH 14).
Total Project Construction Cost
- $13,485,213.49
Centerville's Total Responsibilities
- $1,211,496.49 (8.98% of Const. Cost)
Federal Funds Prorated/Credited to Centerville
- $272,410.00
Centerville's Cost for Upgraded Utilities
- $163,700.82
Centerville's Cost for Streetscaping
-$517,007.80
Centerville's Cost due to County Project
$258,377.87 (1.92% of Const. Cost)
Of the $96,919.72 we will charge the city for engineering & administration of the contract that is in addition to these construction costs, $54,456.69 is due to the city's enhanced utility work and streetscaping. Note too that the trail and sidewalk costs are included in the city's> costs due to the road construction (not identified as a city option), and they will be reimbursed $125,000 for a portion of the trail costs via the Metro Trail grant program after the trail is completed which will further reduce the city's total obligation towards the project.
Sincerely,
Rhonda Sivarajah
Anoka County Commissioner
763-274-4213
Contact us privately with City information, news and personal stories. All contact information will be kept private and not posted on the blog unless requested.Email Centervilleblog@yahoo.com
8/18/2008 Open Forum Gets Testy
Residents concerned over communication with city leaders
Aug 19, 2008 - 09:47:44 CDT.
by Loretta Harding Contributing Writer
Quad Press
CENTERVILLE — At their Aug. 13 meeting, Centerville City Council members exchanged curt remarks with two residents who took the podium to address their displeasure with the council's communication methods stemming from the 2009 Street Improvement Project. Mayor Mary Capra cut short resident Julie Riemen's comments about her conversations and e-mails with council member Tom Lee, in which she said that professionalism needed to be addressed.
"You're getting personal. This is done," Capra told Riemen.
A group of five people attending the meeting called out for the mayor to let Riemen speak.After council members Lee and Jeff Paar responded that Riemen could continue, Capra gave Riemen and any speakers following her two minutes to complete their address.
When Riemen continued her remarks, she said that the council had not responded to her e-mails until the day of the meeting and that she felt unwelcome to speak. She further noted that if citizens inspected government data, they'd find that the City of Centerville carried a long-term debt of more than $8 million.Riemen recommended that residents become informed by visiting a Web site, Centerville Citizens for Ethical Taxation and Representation, at http://www.centervillemn.blogspot.com/. The next speaker, Laura Powers, called attention to a petition that started what she called a "power struggle." The petition was signed by more than 500 citizens and called for the city to step back and reassess the scope of the 2009 road project. She objected to allegations by at least one council member that the petition was invalid and called for the council to apologize. As a former Centerville council member, Powers said that the council was elected to serve, and that service comes with a responsibility to listen and display demeanor. The council heard out Powers and Riemen and resumed the meeting without further comment
Contact us privately with City information, news and personal stories. All contact information will be kept private and not posted on the blog unless requested.Email Centervilleblog@yahoo.com
Aug 19, 2008 - 09:47:44 CDT.
by Loretta Harding Contributing Writer
Quad Press
CENTERVILLE — At their Aug. 13 meeting, Centerville City Council members exchanged curt remarks with two residents who took the podium to address their displeasure with the council's communication methods stemming from the 2009 Street Improvement Project. Mayor Mary Capra cut short resident Julie Riemen's comments about her conversations and e-mails with council member Tom Lee, in which she said that professionalism needed to be addressed.
"You're getting personal. This is done," Capra told Riemen.
A group of five people attending the meeting called out for the mayor to let Riemen speak.After council members Lee and Jeff Paar responded that Riemen could continue, Capra gave Riemen and any speakers following her two minutes to complete their address.
When Riemen continued her remarks, she said that the council had not responded to her e-mails until the day of the meeting and that she felt unwelcome to speak. She further noted that if citizens inspected government data, they'd find that the City of Centerville carried a long-term debt of more than $8 million.Riemen recommended that residents become informed by visiting a Web site, Centerville Citizens for Ethical Taxation and Representation, at http://www.centervillemn.blogspot.com/. The next speaker, Laura Powers, called attention to a petition that started what she called a "power struggle." The petition was signed by more than 500 citizens and called for the city to step back and reassess the scope of the 2009 road project. She objected to allegations by at least one council member that the petition was invalid and called for the council to apologize. As a former Centerville council member, Powers said that the council was elected to serve, and that service comes with a responsibility to listen and display demeanor. The council heard out Powers and Riemen and resumed the meeting without further comment
Contact us privately with City information, news and personal stories. All contact information will be kept private and not posted on the blog unless requested.Email Centervilleblog@yahoo.com
Is it The Fault of Others or Just Miscommunication?
A recent comment left by a citizen. There seems to be a pattern of behavior coming from elected officials.
Hello All, I live in the older neighborhood (behind Kelly's) that is slated to be torn down in phase two. I have had to deal with Dallas on a continuous basis. One story I would like to share. My property along with my neighbors is now the home for the additional power lines for the new downtown development. We were given a notice on our doors that all of our trees would have to be trimmed or come down completely (I would have had the most trees lost completely) in our backyard. These trees give us some privacy from the Chauncey Barett Gardens. I ask Xcel energy what easement do you have to take down 6 of my trees? Some of my neighbors had already given the ok but I held out as I knew that I would lose more property value. Xcel told me this, and I quote, "The city told us they [City] already owned all these properties." I told him that I own this house and until I see an easement bought by the city or Xcel, they are not going to get my signature to take my trees. Xcel immediately said they were not touching anything until the city deals with the home owners. I sent an email to Mayor Capra and she forwarded it on to Dallas (I also copied all the news stations and newspapers). Dallas called me ASAP and left a message that this was a miss-communication and it was Xcel that was in a hurry. This was curious because Xcel had no stake in the increase power needed at this time. Unfortunately, Xcel had already taken down trees in an elderly couples yard. Then, Xcel couldn't drive the truck over her neighbors yards (neighbors said no) and so they left the mess for the couple to clean up. The increase power lines now reside in our front yards. Xcel did some trimming but nothing like what it would have been had they run it in the back yard.My elderly neighbor lost the most in the entire ordeal. My question to Mayor Capra is, who is the advocate for the citizens? She never responded to any my questions.
Thanks for the outlet to speak our minds!
Margaret Lee
August 20, 2008 9:06 PM
Contact us privately with City information, news and personal stories. All contact information will be kept private and not posted on the blog unless requested.Email Centervilleblog@yahoo.com
Hello All, I live in the older neighborhood (behind Kelly's) that is slated to be torn down in phase two. I have had to deal with Dallas on a continuous basis. One story I would like to share. My property along with my neighbors is now the home for the additional power lines for the new downtown development. We were given a notice on our doors that all of our trees would have to be trimmed or come down completely (I would have had the most trees lost completely) in our backyard. These trees give us some privacy from the Chauncey Barett Gardens. I ask Xcel energy what easement do you have to take down 6 of my trees? Some of my neighbors had already given the ok but I held out as I knew that I would lose more property value. Xcel told me this, and I quote, "The city told us they [City] already owned all these properties." I told him that I own this house and until I see an easement bought by the city or Xcel, they are not going to get my signature to take my trees. Xcel immediately said they were not touching anything until the city deals with the home owners. I sent an email to Mayor Capra and she forwarded it on to Dallas (I also copied all the news stations and newspapers). Dallas called me ASAP and left a message that this was a miss-communication and it was Xcel that was in a hurry. This was curious because Xcel had no stake in the increase power needed at this time. Unfortunately, Xcel had already taken down trees in an elderly couples yard. Then, Xcel couldn't drive the truck over her neighbors yards (neighbors said no) and so they left the mess for the couple to clean up. The increase power lines now reside in our front yards. Xcel did some trimming but nothing like what it would have been had they run it in the back yard.My elderly neighbor lost the most in the entire ordeal. My question to Mayor Capra is, who is the advocate for the citizens? She never responded to any my questions.
Thanks for the outlet to speak our minds!
Margaret Lee
August 20, 2008 9:06 PM
Contact us privately with City information, news and personal stories. All contact information will be kept private and not posted on the blog unless requested.Email Centervilleblog@yahoo.com
Friday, August 15, 2008
Are You Up For The Challenge?
AFFIDAVITS OF CANDIDACY MUST BE TURNED IN BETWEEN AUGUST 26 – SEPTEMBER 9, 2008 By 5 PM at Centerville City Hall.
Mayor —2 year Term
Council Seats (2) —Both 4 year Terms.
The filing fee is $2 or a nominating petition filed on behalf of a candidate for office signed by eligible voters who reside in the election district.
Contact us privately with City information, news and personal stories. All contact information will be kept private and not posted on the blog unless requested.Email Centervilleblog@yahoo.com
Thursday, August 14, 2008
Open Forum Statement the Mayor Tried to Stop
During the open forum of the August 13, 2008 council meeting one citizen attempted to make a statement. A few sentences into it the Mayor tried to stop her. That is until others in the room started shouting to let her speak. The resident became so flustered that she did not read her statement in it's entirety.
Mayor Capra and Council Members
This brief statement is intended to offer a suggestion regarding how the City officials might improve communication as it pertains to dealing with the citizens of Centerville.
To provide some background of my perspective:
I contacted council member Tom Lee on June 9th in regard to a right of way issue involving my property. As a citizen of Centerville I felt it was proper to contact a person who should be representing me. Never did I imagine this simple act would turn into such a fiasco. The comments and dissatisfaction expressed to me by other residents about Mr. Lee’s actions since this date have been extremely distressing for me.
Going forward, I find it startling that emails go unanswered and simple questions are not responded to by the very people offering suggestions and making decisions for the City. I believe the issue of professionalism needs to be addressed. To cite specific examples for you:
August 8th I contacted Jim Meyer, the City Finance Director, copied Dallas Larson and Teresa Bender regarding the City Debt, as I could not find the dollar amount myself.
This information is public record and according to Minnesota Statute, Access to Government Data 13.03, subdivision 2,
Upon request to a responsible authority, a person shall be permitted to inspect and copy public government data at reasonable times and places, and, upon request, shall be informed of the data's meaning.
There had been no response from anyone until this afternoon, hours before the open forum. The reply I received was from Mr. Meyer. Were two sentences with no explanation. He stated The City of Centerville has $8,055,596 in long term debt. Call with any questions. What I was looking for was some formal documentation.
July 23rd multiple emails were forwarded to the Mayor regarding some statements made by Mr. Lee in respect to the Letter of Concern, the people involved and myself. The Mayor chose to finally acknowledge my email on August 12, 2008. One day before this open forum. I do understand that she has recently attempted to broker some sort of “off the record” meeting with all the individuals involved, which should include me. However, I have learned that I am not welcomed to speak in this meeting. Apparently it is a private, non city business, off the record affair, yet the City Attorney will be present. The meeting is scheduled to immediately follow this evening’s Council session.
To expand, in my opinion, this is not a private issue. This is a matter of a sitting council member disparaging the hard work of the citizens of Centerville. Upon reading the email history which the Mayor and Council have already received, one must conclude that some of Lee’s written statements were hostile, condescending and completely out of line for that of a city representative. I find this attitude alarming as do many other citizens that I have spoken with and who have accessed the new citizens’ blog. If you are interested, it is.
Centerville Citizens for Ethical Taxation and Representation at http://www.centervillemn.blogspot.com/
Please feel free to contribute any thoughts or facts regarding the City.
One last example, on July 17th Emails were sent to members on the Park and Recreation Committee regarding the July 9th memo in which they recommended a 10 foot trail to Mill Road be reintroduced. The ONLY person that responded was Mr. Haiden, he did so the next day. Since he could not answer specific questions regarding the safety issues on Mill Road, he assured me that he would forward it on to Suzanne Seeley, the Chair Person of Park and Recreation. Mr. Haiden may not have known that she had already received the same email. As of today, no one else has responded, or even acknowledged the questions regarding the grant monies and usage I would like to extend a thank you to Mr. Haiden for taking his position seriously. His professionalism sets an example for others and is greatly appreciated.
In closing, such deficient behavior from our elected officials should be addressed. An automated email response would be a good start, to inform citizens their email has been received, with some protocol set in place for returning messages in a timely and polite manner. To avoid future conflict, interpersonal skills training might be a step in the right direction for some council members and would be beneficial for our Community.
This concludes my statement.
Thank You.
Contact us privately with City information, news and personal stories. All contact information will be kept private and not posted on the blog unless requested.Email Centervilleblog@yahoo.com
Mayor Capra and Council Members
This brief statement is intended to offer a suggestion regarding how the City officials might improve communication as it pertains to dealing with the citizens of Centerville.
To provide some background of my perspective:
I contacted council member Tom Lee on June 9th in regard to a right of way issue involving my property. As a citizen of Centerville I felt it was proper to contact a person who should be representing me. Never did I imagine this simple act would turn into such a fiasco. The comments and dissatisfaction expressed to me by other residents about Mr. Lee’s actions since this date have been extremely distressing for me.
Going forward, I find it startling that emails go unanswered and simple questions are not responded to by the very people offering suggestions and making decisions for the City. I believe the issue of professionalism needs to be addressed. To cite specific examples for you:
August 8th I contacted Jim Meyer, the City Finance Director, copied Dallas Larson and Teresa Bender regarding the City Debt, as I could not find the dollar amount myself.
This information is public record and according to Minnesota Statute, Access to Government Data 13.03, subdivision 2,
Upon request to a responsible authority, a person shall be permitted to inspect and copy public government data at reasonable times and places, and, upon request, shall be informed of the data's meaning.
There had been no response from anyone until this afternoon, hours before the open forum. The reply I received was from Mr. Meyer. Were two sentences with no explanation. He stated The City of Centerville has $8,055,596 in long term debt. Call with any questions. What I was looking for was some formal documentation.
July 23rd multiple emails were forwarded to the Mayor regarding some statements made by Mr. Lee in respect to the Letter of Concern, the people involved and myself. The Mayor chose to finally acknowledge my email on August 12, 2008. One day before this open forum. I do understand that she has recently attempted to broker some sort of “off the record” meeting with all the individuals involved, which should include me. However, I have learned that I am not welcomed to speak in this meeting. Apparently it is a private, non city business, off the record affair, yet the City Attorney will be present. The meeting is scheduled to immediately follow this evening’s Council session.
To expand, in my opinion, this is not a private issue. This is a matter of a sitting council member disparaging the hard work of the citizens of Centerville. Upon reading the email history which the Mayor and Council have already received, one must conclude that some of Lee’s written statements were hostile, condescending and completely out of line for that of a city representative. I find this attitude alarming as do many other citizens that I have spoken with and who have accessed the new citizens’ blog. If you are interested, it is.
Centerville Citizens for Ethical Taxation and Representation at http://www.centervillemn.blogspot.com/
Please feel free to contribute any thoughts or facts regarding the City.
One last example, on July 17th Emails were sent to members on the Park and Recreation Committee regarding the July 9th memo in which they recommended a 10 foot trail to Mill Road be reintroduced. The ONLY person that responded was Mr. Haiden, he did so the next day. Since he could not answer specific questions regarding the safety issues on Mill Road, he assured me that he would forward it on to Suzanne Seeley, the Chair Person of Park and Recreation. Mr. Haiden may not have known that she had already received the same email. As of today, no one else has responded, or even acknowledged the questions regarding the grant monies and usage I would like to extend a thank you to Mr. Haiden for taking his position seriously. His professionalism sets an example for others and is greatly appreciated.
In closing, such deficient behavior from our elected officials should be addressed. An automated email response would be a good start, to inform citizens their email has been received, with some protocol set in place for returning messages in a timely and polite manner. To avoid future conflict, interpersonal skills training might be a step in the right direction for some council members and would be beneficial for our Community.
This concludes my statement.
Thank You.
Contact us privately with City information, news and personal stories. All contact information will be kept private and not posted on the blog unless requested.Email Centervilleblog@yahoo.com
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
What Is The Accurate Tax Rank For Centerville?
Let's address some information which the City has sent to the local paper regarding our tax rank within Minnesota. In this prepared information sheet they state :
For City taxes, Centerville ranks 16 among metro cities over 2000 population.
For this statistic, they cite The Citizens league
2007 Taxes by Level of Government on Average Value Homes in 117 Metropolitan Communities
Although somewhat correct, once everything is factored in, Centerville actually ranked 4th for 2007.
When you look at
Comparing Property Taxes on Average Value Homes in 113 Metropolitan Communities, 2006-2007
Centerville ranked 1st in 2006 and 3rd in 2007.
Click the links to read the information for yourself and see which conclusion you draw.
Here is the letter Council sent to the Press...
Communication and Accurate Information:
The City of Centerville is fiscally sound; your City drinking water is safe and in a recent survey, your police department scored some of the highest customer satisfaction rating scores within the State of Minnesota. Communication and accurate information is very important not only in our personal lives, but also in knowing how your City is managed. I would like to share these facts:
Budget: For City taxes, Centerville ranks 16 among metro cities over 2000 population(*1). Our budget expenses for 2007 are about $2.2 million allocated as follows: 45% Public Safety, 24% General Government, 13% Public Works, 8% General Fund Debit Service, 5% Capital Outlay, 4% Culture & Recreational, 1% Advertising & Promotion.
Downtown Redevelopment: In 2005 the City applied for and was award a Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) for redevelopment planning for the downtown area. A consultant was hired to work with a group of Committee Members, business owners, Council Members and City Staff on a design plan. Many public input and hearings were held and a final design was approved January 11, 2006. Subsequently the City solicited a development partner and began applying for grant funds to assist with the project costs. The City has been awarded a total of $2,144,000 in grant money over the past three years towards the redevelopment of our downtown. We are working with the Beard Group to implement the Downtown Redevelopment Plan. Since our plan calls for a mixed-use redevelopment, the housing downturn has slowed our progress. We remain optimistic that our plan is good and given reasonable time, our vision can be achieved.
Road Projects: In 2003 the City approved the completion of a Pavement Management Study of our streets. Its purpose was to better manage our road projects and associated costs. In 2004 the first phase of that project was completed and the City is currently in the planning stage for phase two scheduled for 2009.
Public Works: In 2004 the Council established a Capital Revenue Fund to finance a future Public Works building. By 2007 that fund balance was $415,000. Last year the City was approached by the owner of Centerville Redi-Mix inquiring if the City would be interested in purchasing his unfinished building as a new Public Works site. The timing of this purchase came sooner than anticipated, but this was a costeffective option that would meet the City’s needs well into the future. The funds from the Capital Revenue and Enterprise Funds allowed the $1.4 million dollar purchase. An internal loan was made that will be repaid upon the sale of the 20th Avenue site, which was appraised at a commercial market value of $435,000. The City will be hosting an open house of both the old site and the new site in the near future.
Hidden Spring Park: In 1998 the City was one of two communities within the State of Minnesota selected to participate in the Minnesota Design Team Project. Town meetings were held and a vision for our community arose by the final day of the five-day visit. One of the goals within the final plan was to obtain and develop lakeshore parkland within our community. Since that time the City has been putting “Park Dedication Fees” (paid by developers instead of a parkland dedication) away towards the purchase of lake property. These “Park Dedication Fees” can only be spent on Capital park projects. The parkland purchase was made with $385,000 Park Dedication Fees and an award of a grant from the DNR totaling $150,000.
Closing:
One of the best things any Council can do for the future of a community is to have an effective Staff in place. As a Council, we greatly appreciate our Staff’s dedication to the community and the Council. Our current Staff has been very successful in applying for and being awarded over $2,000,000 in grant dollars over the past three years. This is an historic amount of money for our City to be awarded. Receipt of these funds would not have been possible without the professionalism and dedication of our Staff.
*1 Citizens League 2007 Property Tax Review
Contact us privately with City information, news and personal stories. All contact information will be kept private and not posted on the blog unless requested.Email Centervilleblog@yahoo.com
For City taxes, Centerville ranks 16 among metro cities over 2000 population.
For this statistic, they cite The Citizens league
2007 Taxes by Level of Government on Average Value Homes in 117 Metropolitan Communities
Although somewhat correct, once everything is factored in, Centerville actually ranked 4th for 2007.
When you look at
Comparing Property Taxes on Average Value Homes in 113 Metropolitan Communities, 2006-2007
Centerville ranked 1st in 2006 and 3rd in 2007.
Click the links to read the information for yourself and see which conclusion you draw.
Here is the letter Council sent to the Press...
Communication and Accurate Information:
The City of Centerville is fiscally sound; your City drinking water is safe and in a recent survey, your police department scored some of the highest customer satisfaction rating scores within the State of Minnesota. Communication and accurate information is very important not only in our personal lives, but also in knowing how your City is managed. I would like to share these facts:
Budget: For City taxes, Centerville ranks 16 among metro cities over 2000 population(*1). Our budget expenses for 2007 are about $2.2 million allocated as follows: 45% Public Safety, 24% General Government, 13% Public Works, 8% General Fund Debit Service, 5% Capital Outlay, 4% Culture & Recreational, 1% Advertising & Promotion.
Downtown Redevelopment: In 2005 the City applied for and was award a Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) for redevelopment planning for the downtown area. A consultant was hired to work with a group of Committee Members, business owners, Council Members and City Staff on a design plan. Many public input and hearings were held and a final design was approved January 11, 2006. Subsequently the City solicited a development partner and began applying for grant funds to assist with the project costs. The City has been awarded a total of $2,144,000 in grant money over the past three years towards the redevelopment of our downtown. We are working with the Beard Group to implement the Downtown Redevelopment Plan. Since our plan calls for a mixed-use redevelopment, the housing downturn has slowed our progress. We remain optimistic that our plan is good and given reasonable time, our vision can be achieved.
Road Projects: In 2003 the City approved the completion of a Pavement Management Study of our streets. Its purpose was to better manage our road projects and associated costs. In 2004 the first phase of that project was completed and the City is currently in the planning stage for phase two scheduled for 2009.
Public Works: In 2004 the Council established a Capital Revenue Fund to finance a future Public Works building. By 2007 that fund balance was $415,000. Last year the City was approached by the owner of Centerville Redi-Mix inquiring if the City would be interested in purchasing his unfinished building as a new Public Works site. The timing of this purchase came sooner than anticipated, but this was a costeffective option that would meet the City’s needs well into the future. The funds from the Capital Revenue and Enterprise Funds allowed the $1.4 million dollar purchase. An internal loan was made that will be repaid upon the sale of the 20th Avenue site, which was appraised at a commercial market value of $435,000. The City will be hosting an open house of both the old site and the new site in the near future.
Hidden Spring Park: In 1998 the City was one of two communities within the State of Minnesota selected to participate in the Minnesota Design Team Project. Town meetings were held and a vision for our community arose by the final day of the five-day visit. One of the goals within the final plan was to obtain and develop lakeshore parkland within our community. Since that time the City has been putting “Park Dedication Fees” (paid by developers instead of a parkland dedication) away towards the purchase of lake property. These “Park Dedication Fees” can only be spent on Capital park projects. The parkland purchase was made with $385,000 Park Dedication Fees and an award of a grant from the DNR totaling $150,000.
Closing:
One of the best things any Council can do for the future of a community is to have an effective Staff in place. As a Council, we greatly appreciate our Staff’s dedication to the community and the Council. Our current Staff has been very successful in applying for and being awarded over $2,000,000 in grant dollars over the past three years. This is an historic amount of money for our City to be awarded. Receipt of these funds would not have been possible without the professionalism and dedication of our Staff.
*1 Citizens League 2007 Property Tax Review
Contact us privately with City information, news and personal stories. All contact information will be kept private and not posted on the blog unless requested.Email Centervilleblog@yahoo.com
Monday, August 11, 2008
Duties of Centerville City Council
Amended 8/9/2006
Duties of Council
The Council, including the Mayor sitting as presiding officer of the Council, shall exercise all powers and perform all duties conferred and imposed upon its members by ordinances of the City and laws of the State. Consistent with the responsibilities to accept considerable leadership over the general conduct of City affairs, the members shall study the operations of the City government and recommend desirable changes and improvements to the Council. To that end the members must perform all of the duties of office including but not limited to attendance at all regular and special meetings to the Council and all attendant and supporting duties such as service on or liaison to committees of City government or City services, serving as Public Representatives of the City, and by generally educating themselves about the affairs of government by listening and responding to members of the community.
Contact us privately with City information, news and personal stories. All contact information will be kept private and not posted on the blog unless requested.Email Centervilleblog@yahoo.com
Duties of Council
The Council, including the Mayor sitting as presiding officer of the Council, shall exercise all powers and perform all duties conferred and imposed upon its members by ordinances of the City and laws of the State. Consistent with the responsibilities to accept considerable leadership over the general conduct of City affairs, the members shall study the operations of the City government and recommend desirable changes and improvements to the Council. To that end the members must perform all of the duties of office including but not limited to attendance at all regular and special meetings to the Council and all attendant and supporting duties such as service on or liaison to committees of City government or City services, serving as Public Representatives of the City, and by generally educating themselves about the affairs of government by listening and responding to members of the community.
Contact us privately with City information, news and personal stories. All contact information will be kept private and not posted on the blog unless requested.Email Centervilleblog@yahoo.com
Tuesday, August 5, 2008
Tom Lee Council Member Response to Resident
Tom Lee Says:
May 8, 2008 at 3:31 pm
Ms XXXX,I’m not a politician, so I won’t speak to you like one. I’ll address your comments in the same tone as they are presented.
"Nobody was paid to be at the May 1, 2008 meeting, nobody that is except the city council. The rest of us were there because we care. Care about our city, our neighborhood and our neighbors".
If you think anyone sits on Council for the money, you have no idea the time it takes away from your family. All of us have a “day job”. All of us could make better “part time” money doing just about anything. The last meeting, the public hearing is the only meeting we are required to have. As you may recall, we have had at least three other meetings with those effected by this project. Those meetings I wasn’t “paid” to attend. I was there because I care what they have to say.Four times we asked for constructive input. Four times we got hostility and insult. The city does NOT pay me for that. I am only on Council because I care about this town. My family lives here, a lot of my friends live. I want Centerville to thrive.Many citizens spoke about concerns they have about the proposed road project. I heard people agreeing that portions of the proposed project needs to be done, but not one citizen that spoke agreed with city council that the entire scope of the project needs to be done at this time. I have spoke with NUMEROUS citizens that want the road project. Many of them were sitting in the audience that night. Privately they have told me they want the majority of the project to go forward, but they will not state so publically as they don’t want to face the anger of their neighbors. Somehow, I can understand that.This project is as big as it is in an effort to get the most for our money. Eventually all this work will likely NEED to be done. It cost less if we do it all at once.Some issues that I can recall that were not addressed are:
1. What is city council doing to bring in more business to the city?Have you not heard about the down town revitalization project?
I’ve been working on that for 5 years. I have hundreds, maybe even a thousand hours of MY time in it. Above and beyond what is required of me.
What is city council doing to keep the businesses that we have?The backage road was built in an effort to keep KEY businesses here while the County rebuild Main Street. We formed the Economic Development Authority to INVENT ways to assist current and hopefully current business. We have sought out county, state and federal business assistance programs, one other local officials don’t even know exist. And I personally go MILES out of my way to spend any money I can at our local businesses, even if I can get it cheaper somewhere else.
2. Why does Mill Road need a bike path at this time?
Because it will never be less expensive later. It IS a safety issue and I for one will not wait until someone is hurt or killed to fix a problem I KNOW exists. Mill Road is a collector street. It should have has a bike path on it years ago.
3. Why does Brian Way need a sidewalk?
It may not. Brian Way is not a collector street, though it is the accepted practice according to the Comp Plan to interconnect trails and sidewalks when possible.
4. Does everybody have to hook up to city water/sewer right away or can they wait? Does the word everybody mean everybody or just the unfortunate people selected?
Every one that has city water available will be required to hook up to city water.If you are referring to Council Member Vickers, she will not be included in this project as she lives on a COUNTY road, which is not part of this project. BUT, when the County road is done, the city SHOULD make water available to her property and since she owns…..140 plus acres, she WILL pay an incredible amount. Unfortunately, I will not be on Council to to weigh in on the matter. (though I suspect she may).
5. If the road project cost goes up then why will my assessment also go up?
Once we declare what your assessment will be, it can not go up without your approval. Our only choice would be to remove your portion from this project.
6. How can the increase in property value be associated with the cost of the project?
When I repair a problem at my house, my house does not increase in value by the full cost of material and labor. Many times there is not an increase in value at all.If your roof leaks, the repair does not add value to your home. However if you chose NOT to repair the roof, your value will decrease. But the availability of city water does improve property value, the county assessor says so. So does having a new road, sidewalk, bike trail system, etc. That is what we MUST go by.
7. What source or sources are being using to determine the amount my property value will increase due to the proposed road construction?
We have had an appraiser look at various houses in each part of the project. Which is more than some cities will do. Our valuations are ASSUMED to be correct in a court of law. The burden to prove otherwise is on the homeowner.
My actions may not have been the calmest in the audience, but as Council Member Jeff Paar motioned to bring it on, we responded to his jester and brought it on.
I am not Jeff Paar.
We hope that the citizen’s voices have been heard and you respect our voices and change the scope of the project to include only the necessary improvements and to remove the ‘luxury’ portions of the project such as sidewalks and bike paths.
Infrastructure is not a luxury. Ignore it and it will go away, until it becomes ridiculously expensive to replace. Look at the I35 bridge collapse. It was ignored, it wwent away and now it is 10 -15 more expensive to replace then it could have been.Certainly portions of this project COULD be removed, though the net effect to the cost would not be substantial. If the “niceties” aren’t added now, they will NEVER be added.
Respectfully,
Tom Lee
Why has Council been ignoring a road maintenance budget?
Contact us privately with City information, news and personal stories. All contact information will be kept private and not posted on the blog unless requested.Email Centervilleblog@yahoo.com
Thursday, July 31, 2008
It's Back.... The Opposed Trail Along Mill Road
Update 8/5/2008: The $704,000 and $202,000 matching dollars is for as many trails they can get with these monies, not just the trail on Mill. As we understand, the engineer has asked the council and the Park and Rec Comm for their top 5 priorities (from trail map on blog)
Whether the matching dollar amounts are a coincidence or typo, this information comes directly from public records.
2008 Budget
Police page three $704,000
Fire page four $202,000
Road Maintenance.... Zero, Zip, Nada!
LINK HERE
Now is the time to send in your objections or your top 5 as Park and Rec meets 8/6/08 and council on 8/13/08
Memo
From: Kim Stephan
Date: July 9, 2008
Subject: Budget Considerations for 2009 From Parks and Recreation Committee
Council Member Tom Lee asked the committee to consider their recommendation for the trail proposed along Mill Road. The City received a Trail Grant for $704,000, with the City's portion being approximately $202,000. Council Member Lee informed the committee that the grant monies received are difficult to get and if not spent the chances of receiving these grant monies again would be greatly reduced. A trail was proposed alone Mill Road with the 2009 street project but the road has been taken out of the project and the residents along Mill Road were opposed to a trail or a sidewalk being added to their street. The committee feels strongly that Mill Road is dangerous to pedestrians and bikes and should have a trail on it as it is a collector street; it is narrow and it is very busy. Taking into consideration the feelings of the residents concerning a trail, the committee still felt it was their obligation to look at what was best for the community as a whole and that would be to have a trail on Mill Road. The committee discussed at length the Mill Road resident's objections verses the safety of the road and while reluctant to go against the resident's wishes would like to recommend to City Council that Mill Road have a trail constructed within the easement using the Trail Grant monies.
Motion was made by Vice-Chairperson Amundsen, seconded by Committee Member Haiden to recommend City Council proceed with the trail being constructed on Mill Road per the specifications in the 2009 street project, the Comprehensive Trail Plan and the plan submitted for grant monies due to the connectivity of the trail plan and the safety of the residents with the understanding the residents of Mill Road will not be assessed for this trail as Federal Grant Funds will be used. All in favor. Motion carried unanimously.
Just who is going to pay the additional $202,000 for the unwanted trail? How many other trails are not payed for with grant money and just what the heck is a "collector street" in a town with such a small population? We need to keep an eye on these people... $202,000 would go a long way on road maintenance!
Contact us privately with City information, news and personal stories. All contact information will be kept private and not posted on the blog unless requested.Email Centervilleblog@yahoo.com
Whether the matching dollar amounts are a coincidence or typo, this information comes directly from public records.
2008 Budget
Police page three $704,000
Fire page four $202,000
Road Maintenance.... Zero, Zip, Nada!
LINK HERE
Now is the time to send in your objections or your top 5 as Park and Rec meets 8/6/08 and council on 8/13/08
Memo
From: Kim Stephan
Date: July 9, 2008
Subject: Budget Considerations for 2009 From Parks and Recreation Committee
Council Member Tom Lee asked the committee to consider their recommendation for the trail proposed along Mill Road. The City received a Trail Grant for $704,000, with the City's portion being approximately $202,000. Council Member Lee informed the committee that the grant monies received are difficult to get and if not spent the chances of receiving these grant monies again would be greatly reduced. A trail was proposed alone Mill Road with the 2009 street project but the road has been taken out of the project and the residents along Mill Road were opposed to a trail or a sidewalk being added to their street. The committee feels strongly that Mill Road is dangerous to pedestrians and bikes and should have a trail on it as it is a collector street; it is narrow and it is very busy. Taking into consideration the feelings of the residents concerning a trail, the committee still felt it was their obligation to look at what was best for the community as a whole and that would be to have a trail on Mill Road. The committee discussed at length the Mill Road resident's objections verses the safety of the road and while reluctant to go against the resident's wishes would like to recommend to City Council that Mill Road have a trail constructed within the easement using the Trail Grant monies.
Motion was made by Vice-Chairperson Amundsen, seconded by Committee Member Haiden to recommend City Council proceed with the trail being constructed on Mill Road per the specifications in the 2009 street project, the Comprehensive Trail Plan and the plan submitted for grant monies due to the connectivity of the trail plan and the safety of the residents with the understanding the residents of Mill Road will not be assessed for this trail as Federal Grant Funds will be used. All in favor. Motion carried unanimously.
Just who is going to pay the additional $202,000 for the unwanted trail? How many other trails are not payed for with grant money and just what the heck is a "collector street" in a town with such a small population? We need to keep an eye on these people... $202,000 would go a long way on road maintenance!
Contact us privately with City information, news and personal stories. All contact information will be kept private and not posted on the blog unless requested.Email Centervilleblog@yahoo.com
Tuesday, July 29, 2008
Real Estate Listing
Today I noticed a neighbor listed their house for sale. This property is listed on Brian Drive for $189,900. It made my stomach turn as just a few short years ago, this property would have sold at $225,000 plus! With the Real Estate market in the tank, this is ABSOLUTELY NO TIME FOR INCREASED TAXES! There was a time that houses sold in a day or at least within a week in this market. That time is no longer.... The City Council wishes to impose these tax assessments on us today. All one should ask is why? They are doing nothing but taking our equity and profit away! Having ranked 3rd in the State for highest taxes during 2007 (and let's not forget) 1st in 2006, one has to ask, what the heck is going on? Are we going to be first again? This is nothing to be proud of... But hey, we have five bazillion cops to support, so that makes it alright!
Hugo Spends Less Than 25% on Police and Fire
"The total Hugo 2008 budget (draft) is approximately $3,929,000.00. Our proposed Law Enforcement budget is approximately $458,900.00 and our approximate Fire department budget is $388,300.00; combined, a total of about $847,200.00, or a bit less than 25% of our total budget."
Wouldn't that extra 20% our Council budgets for Police and Fire be better spent on road maintenance? We currently spend 45% of the budget on these services. ($704,000 Police, 2008 and rising) Why are we spending more than Hugo, which has a population more than double ours?
"Hugo has spent a considerable amount of money on our streets and roads. The majority of our over $1,000,000.00 road budget is not necessarily for road repair or maintenance but for new roads for new and not too healthy developments."
Quotes from an email recieved by SaveHugo.com
Contact us privately with City information, news and personal stories. All contact information will be kept private and not posted on the blog unless requested.Email Centervilleblog@yahoo.com
Wouldn't that extra 20% our Council budgets for Police and Fire be better spent on road maintenance? We currently spend 45% of the budget on these services. ($704,000 Police, 2008 and rising) Why are we spending more than Hugo, which has a population more than double ours?
"Hugo has spent a considerable amount of money on our streets and roads. The majority of our over $1,000,000.00 road budget is not necessarily for road repair or maintenance but for new roads for new and not too healthy developments."
Quotes from an email recieved by SaveHugo.com
Contact us privately with City information, news and personal stories. All contact information will be kept private and not posted on the blog unless requested.Email Centervilleblog@yahoo.com
Monday, July 28, 2008
Centerville Trial Map
This is the trail map that they had at the work session on the 23rd. Could you put this on the blog so people know what they are thinking with the trail systems and tell them to direct their questions and concerns to the Park and Rec and the Council? The dollar amounts are attached also. I see the one on Brain Way is on there. It will probably be a last priority though so it will most likely be pulled. Mill Road on the other hand seems to be a big priority for everyone……………….
Sunday, July 27, 2008
City Property Tax Comparisons
Some have asked for budget comparisons to other Cities similar in population.
Here we go...
City of Independence, MN
Population: 3,676
Total Budget: $2,997,354
They did budget about 40% for Public Safety but still managed to dedicate $549,011 for Road Maintenance!
LINK HERE
Scandia
Population: 4,189
2007 Total Budget: $1,626,464
Surprisingly low for Police and Fire $369,268. Also budgets for road maintenance as needed, $150,000 in 2004.
LINK HERE
Two examples of similar Cities within our State This research takes time and we welcome input/research from anyone willing to help us out.
Here we go...
City of Independence, MN
Population: 3,676
Total Budget: $2,997,354
They did budget about 40% for Public Safety but still managed to dedicate $549,011 for Road Maintenance!
LINK HERE
Scandia
Population: 4,189
2007 Total Budget: $1,626,464
Surprisingly low for Police and Fire $369,268. Also budgets for road maintenance as needed, $150,000 in 2004.
LINK HERE
Two examples of similar Cities within our State This research takes time and we welcome input/research from anyone willing to help us out.
Friday, July 25, 2008
Is Such a Grandiose Plan Right For Centerville?
Point of reference:
The blue building at the top is the Elementary School. Somehow, sections E and H will be constructed between it and main street. Take note that phase one, (green) is expected to be completed in 2009. Council has been busy making plans... Everything but road maintenance! During the last council meeting, they did spend about 15/20 minutes discussing colored concrete (and looking at samples) for the new downtown area. The Mayor REALLY wants it!
The blue building at the top is the Elementary School. Somehow, sections E and H will be constructed between it and main street. Take note that phase one, (green) is expected to be completed in 2009. Council has been busy making plans... Everything but road maintenance! During the last council meeting, they did spend about 15/20 minutes discussing colored concrete (and looking at samples) for the new downtown area. The Mayor REALLY wants it!
Click on map to bring up larger image.
A. 7 For Sale Town homes
B 14,000 SF Rental/Office
B 14,000 SF Rental/Office
C. 48 Multi Family Units
15,000 SF Rental/Office
D. 41 Multi Family Units (Affordable)
E. 40 Multi Family Units
F. 60 Multi Family Units
20,000 SF SF Rental/Office
G. 72 Multi Family Units
H. 6,000 SF Rental/Office
I. 40 For Sale Town homes
J. 32 For Sale Town homes
K. 16 For Sale Town homes
L. 20 For Sale Town homes
L. 20 For Sale Town homes
There goes our small town feeling!
Thursday, July 24, 2008
Please Send Comments and Thoughts
We welcome comments, thoughts and general information regarding our City of Centerville. We will never post any personal information without consent.
Centerville City Administrator Lives in Cannon Falls... Huh?
What is the salary for the City Administrator? Is one reimbursed mileage (50.6 each way) to travel for meetings? Inquiring minds want to know... Here is a little history (The Quad Press declined to report) that will make your head spin!
Council votes 5-0 to dismiss Larson At Thursday night’s meeting, the city council approved by a vote of 5-0 a motion to dismiss Dallas Larson as the city administrator. Also on a 5-0 vote, the council approved a separation agreement between the city and Larson, setting November 19 as the effective date for his separation from the city. As of Tuesday of this week Larson had not accepted the separation agreement, which, among eight conditions, calls for payment of four months of salary and other benefits, including continued health, life and disability insurance through March 18, 2005.The motion to dismiss Larson as the city administrator contains 14 reasons as “a representative, but not comprehensive, list of reasons” for his dismissal.
Included on the list of reasons are claims that:
• Larson “has not adequately implemented the City Council’s policy directives.”
• he “has not communicated well with the City Council and has failed to keep the City Council adequately informed…”
• his “management style does not meet the City’s current needs.”
• he has, at times “completely failed to provide critical information to the City Council.”
• “the City Council no longer trusts the City Administrator.”
• “the existing relationship with the City Administrator has eroded to the point where it is difficult for the City Council to do its job.”
• he has “a poor working relationship with members of the public and the business and development community.”
• he “improperly used City letterhead, implying the consent and approval of the City to conduct non-City business on behalf of a private corporation.
”The reasons also include claims that Larson gave “false or misleading information to a potential developer,” that, without informing the council and without city council authorization “instituted negotiations to purchase property;” that he “failed to provide critical information to the city council during the budget process about the nature and extent of various city funds,” and that “if the city council had full disclosure, the city council may have made the city levy lower.”All five council members present at the Thursday meeting voted in favor of the two motions. Those members are Andy Hochmuth, Lisa Wilcox-Erhardt, Mike Bateson, Peter Bodette and Gary Thomas. The sixth council member, Karl Hochmuth, was absent.With input from council members both motions were prepared for council action by Elliott Knetsch, who serves as the city attorney. He told the council that neither Larson nor Larson’s attorney have accepted the conditions of the separation agreement.Larson could not be reached for comment this week.Mayor Glenn Weibel, who cannot vote on a council motion except to break a tie, challenged the accuracy of some of the contents of the two documents and said there were several statements in the documents with which he did not agree.The mayor complimented Lanell Endres, the assistant city administrator who has been serving as the acting administrator during the absence of Larson, who technically is on vacation. Weibel said Endres has been doing an “excellent job.”The city of Cannon Falls may or may not have a new interim city administrator. A city official from a Twin Cities suburb has been selected for the position from among several candidates, but as of early this week had not accepted an agreement approved for her employment by the Cannon Falls city council.The candidate, who has served at different times as the administrator of four Minnesota cities in the Twin Cities area, met with Cannon Falls city officials on Monday of this week but reportedly had not decided as of Tuesday to accept the offer to serve as the interim administrator here.
Related Link
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Software © 1998-2008 1up! Software, All Rights Reserved
Council votes 5-0 to dismiss Larson At Thursday night’s meeting, the city council approved by a vote of 5-0 a motion to dismiss Dallas Larson as the city administrator. Also on a 5-0 vote, the council approved a separation agreement between the city and Larson, setting November 19 as the effective date for his separation from the city. As of Tuesday of this week Larson had not accepted the separation agreement, which, among eight conditions, calls for payment of four months of salary and other benefits, including continued health, life and disability insurance through March 18, 2005.The motion to dismiss Larson as the city administrator contains 14 reasons as “a representative, but not comprehensive, list of reasons” for his dismissal.
Included on the list of reasons are claims that:
• Larson “has not adequately implemented the City Council’s policy directives.”
• he “has not communicated well with the City Council and has failed to keep the City Council adequately informed…”
• his “management style does not meet the City’s current needs.”
• he has, at times “completely failed to provide critical information to the City Council.”
• “the City Council no longer trusts the City Administrator.”
• “the existing relationship with the City Administrator has eroded to the point where it is difficult for the City Council to do its job.”
• he has “a poor working relationship with members of the public and the business and development community.”
• he “improperly used City letterhead, implying the consent and approval of the City to conduct non-City business on behalf of a private corporation.
”The reasons also include claims that Larson gave “false or misleading information to a potential developer,” that, without informing the council and without city council authorization “instituted negotiations to purchase property;” that he “failed to provide critical information to the city council during the budget process about the nature and extent of various city funds,” and that “if the city council had full disclosure, the city council may have made the city levy lower.”All five council members present at the Thursday meeting voted in favor of the two motions. Those members are Andy Hochmuth, Lisa Wilcox-Erhardt, Mike Bateson, Peter Bodette and Gary Thomas. The sixth council member, Karl Hochmuth, was absent.With input from council members both motions were prepared for council action by Elliott Knetsch, who serves as the city attorney. He told the council that neither Larson nor Larson’s attorney have accepted the conditions of the separation agreement.Larson could not be reached for comment this week.Mayor Glenn Weibel, who cannot vote on a council motion except to break a tie, challenged the accuracy of some of the contents of the two documents and said there were several statements in the documents with which he did not agree.The mayor complimented Lanell Endres, the assistant city administrator who has been serving as the acting administrator during the absence of Larson, who technically is on vacation. Weibel said Endres has been doing an “excellent job.”The city of Cannon Falls may or may not have a new interim city administrator. A city official from a Twin Cities suburb has been selected for the position from among several candidates, but as of early this week had not accepted an agreement approved for her employment by the Cannon Falls city council.The candidate, who has served at different times as the administrator of four Minnesota cities in the Twin Cities area, met with Cannon Falls city officials on Monday of this week but reportedly had not decided as of Tuesday to accept the offer to serve as the interim administrator here.
Related Link
Content © 2008 Cannon Falls Beacon
Software © 1998-2008 1up! Software, All Rights Reserved
Wednesday, July 23, 2008
Budget Fiasco/No Road Maintenance
Having attended the "work session" meeting this evening, we can tell you that NOTHING is being seriously considered regarding a road maintenance fund! To her credit, Broussard Vickers did indicate that she would NOT sign a budget without the dedicated fund. She again suggested $100,000 annually. Council discussed the fact that the City is "already in the hole" $60,000 for seal coating projections alone next year. This evening the Mayor suggested dedicating $50,000 as a starting point, which will still leave us lacking. There were excuses offered for lack of action, such as
Initial Centerville 2009 Budget Set To Increase 3 Percent
City Wants To Make Roads A Priority
By Louise Edwards of The Citizen
CENTERVILLE - Budget discussions are underway in the city, and much of the talk is centering around roads. The preliminary Centerville City Council draft budget, which was presented at the city’s July 10 meeting, proposes an increase in the general tax levy of $58,720, or 2.96 percent. For a $200,000 property in Centerville, that would equate to an annual increase of about $60, according to City Administrator Dallas Larson. “We wanted to keep this budget as tight as we could, without it being unrealistic,” added Larson. “It’s very much status quo.
There’s nothing new in here, no new equipment, keeping the same staff and keep doing what we have been doing.” But debate among city council members is already focusing on what, if any, cuts should be made from certain areas so that money can be set aside in a dedicated road fund.
The discussion follows criticism from some residents made during a number of public meetings and hearings on Centerville’s 2009 Street Improvement Project. Some citizens had said the council should have budgeted for street reconstruction and repairs, lessening the burden of special assessments on households. “I don’t necessarily want to change the numbers, but one of the things we have heard very loudly is that we should be planning better for road maintenance,” said Council Member Linda Broussard Vickers. “Any place we can squeeze something and move it [into a dedicated road maintenance fund], I would like to see that happen …” Broussard Vickers mentioned a few examples of areas she would look at cutting back, including funding for the Fête des Lacs festival, the Economic Development Authority, and increasing staff salaries by two percent, rather than the recent standard of three percent.
Mayor Mary Capra suggested putting $30,000 aside every year into a road fund, although Broussard Vickers said she did not believe it was worth having a dedicated fund without setting aside a minimum of $100,000 annually. Finance Director John Meyer will look over suggestions on line items in the budget made by council members ahead of the city’s next budget work session, due to be held tonight (Wednesday, July 23).
A preliminary tax levy must be set at the first city council meeting in September, after which time it cannot be increased, only lowered.
"Who knows what the next council will do? It could overturn any fund we startEveryone in Minnesota knows that road maintenance is a fact of life and absolutely should be budgeted for! Why are we paying 45% of the budget on Fire and Police while 0% is dedicated to our streets? Minnetonka, an affluent city which ranks 39th in taxes spends 40% of its budget on Fire, Police AND ROAD MAINTENENCE!! Centerville hardly compares to Minnetonka when you actually do compare property value, income, business and responsible council members... But by golly, we are going have those new sidewalks and trails! This behavior would be laughable if not so irresponsible and repulsive.
now."
Initial Centerville 2009 Budget Set To Increase 3 Percent
City Wants To Make Roads A Priority
By Louise Edwards of The Citizen
CENTERVILLE - Budget discussions are underway in the city, and much of the talk is centering around roads. The preliminary Centerville City Council draft budget, which was presented at the city’s July 10 meeting, proposes an increase in the general tax levy of $58,720, or 2.96 percent. For a $200,000 property in Centerville, that would equate to an annual increase of about $60, according to City Administrator Dallas Larson. “We wanted to keep this budget as tight as we could, without it being unrealistic,” added Larson. “It’s very much status quo.
There’s nothing new in here, no new equipment, keeping the same staff and keep doing what we have been doing.” But debate among city council members is already focusing on what, if any, cuts should be made from certain areas so that money can be set aside in a dedicated road fund.
The discussion follows criticism from some residents made during a number of public meetings and hearings on Centerville’s 2009 Street Improvement Project. Some citizens had said the council should have budgeted for street reconstruction and repairs, lessening the burden of special assessments on households. “I don’t necessarily want to change the numbers, but one of the things we have heard very loudly is that we should be planning better for road maintenance,” said Council Member Linda Broussard Vickers. “Any place we can squeeze something and move it [into a dedicated road maintenance fund], I would like to see that happen …” Broussard Vickers mentioned a few examples of areas she would look at cutting back, including funding for the Fête des Lacs festival, the Economic Development Authority, and increasing staff salaries by two percent, rather than the recent standard of three percent.
“I don’t think there’s any way we could ever budget enough to not assessBut instead of mill and overlay [road repairs] costing the average homeowner $1,500 $2,000, maybe it would be $500.”
people for improvements,” added Council Member Jeff Paar."
Mayor Mary Capra suggested putting $30,000 aside every year into a road fund, although Broussard Vickers said she did not believe it was worth having a dedicated fund without setting aside a minimum of $100,000 annually. Finance Director John Meyer will look over suggestions on line items in the budget made by council members ahead of the city’s next budget work session, due to be held tonight (Wednesday, July 23).
A preliminary tax levy must be set at the first city council meeting in September, after which time it cannot be increased, only lowered.
Council Information
Assessment Hearing Sees Low Turnout
By Louise Edwards of The Citizen
There are a couple of residents on Old Mill Road who are rather unhappy with their recent special assessments.
A public hearing was held ahead of the regular council meeting on July 10 to allow citizens to voice their opinion on the sum they will be assessed for the installation of water main, sanitary sewer, street pavement, curb, storm sewer and related drainage improvements which were made last year as part of the Old Mill Road Improvement project.
Only one person spoke at the hearing, Jeff Carroll, a lawyer representing Old Mill Road neighbors Cathy Fruth and Fred Fischer, but he said both his clients were very dissatisfied with the bills they had been sent.
He questioned the assessments, which he said indicated the property values would increase by $100,000 apiece, from a current estimated value of $375,000.
“The current taxes are over $5,000,” said Carroll. “This is going to increase their taxes to $14,000 a year, an increase of 140 percent, which is incredibly substantial.”
Fruth had appeared before Centerville City Council at a previous meeting, at which she claimed her drive had been left four feet above street level since the road improvements had been made.
She was offered two options to remedy the situation by the city engineer at the July 10 meeting, but explained she would need further time to decide which course of action she wished to pursue.
The City Council voted to delay the passing of a resolution on Old Mill Road residents’ special assessments until a later meeting when Fruth’s situation had been resolved.
In other action, the council:
• Discussed briefly the subject of residents’ payments on the 2009 Street Improvement Project special assessments. Council Member Linda Broussard Vickers said she would like to see the monthly repayment kept at or below $100 per household.
• Heard that the Planning & Zoning Commission was looking to alter a city ordinance governing fences to ensure that any front fences must be positioned at least 10 feet back from the front line of a property.
By Louise Edwards of The Citizen
There are a couple of residents on Old Mill Road who are rather unhappy with their recent special assessments.
A public hearing was held ahead of the regular council meeting on July 10 to allow citizens to voice their opinion on the sum they will be assessed for the installation of water main, sanitary sewer, street pavement, curb, storm sewer and related drainage improvements which were made last year as part of the Old Mill Road Improvement project.
Only one person spoke at the hearing, Jeff Carroll, a lawyer representing Old Mill Road neighbors Cathy Fruth and Fred Fischer, but he said both his clients were very dissatisfied with the bills they had been sent.
He questioned the assessments, which he said indicated the property values would increase by $100,000 apiece, from a current estimated value of $375,000.
“The current taxes are over $5,000,” said Carroll. “This is going to increase their taxes to $14,000 a year, an increase of 140 percent, which is incredibly substantial.”
Fruth had appeared before Centerville City Council at a previous meeting, at which she claimed her drive had been left four feet above street level since the road improvements had been made.
She was offered two options to remedy the situation by the city engineer at the July 10 meeting, but explained she would need further time to decide which course of action she wished to pursue.
The City Council voted to delay the passing of a resolution on Old Mill Road residents’ special assessments until a later meeting when Fruth’s situation had been resolved.
In other action, the council:
• Discussed briefly the subject of residents’ payments on the 2009 Street Improvement Project special assessments. Council Member Linda Broussard Vickers said she would like to see the monthly repayment kept at or below $100 per household.
• Heard that the Planning & Zoning Commission was looking to alter a city ordinance governing fences to ensure that any front fences must be positioned at least 10 feet back from the front line of a property.
What Regrading Has Already Accomplished for Some on Mill Road
Resident's Driveway Status Left Up In The Air
By Louise Edwards with The Citizen 7/9/2008
It's a puzzler: What do you do when the city reconstructs your road, and your driveway ends up four-and-a-half feet too high? In Centerville resident Cathy Fruth's case, she decided to bring the matter before the city council. At its regular June 25 meeting, the Centerville City Council heard that re-grading work done on Fruth's driveway leading to her property on Old Mill Road as part of a city project had left her with a seven percent grade, which she was finding too steep to navigate. "Twice I have almost hit other cars, not being able to stop because of [the steepness of the drive now]," she told council members. Fruth said that through the snow and ice of the winter, she had been unable to access her drive in her vehicle without crossing the street and "taking three runs at it." Council members resolved to send the city engineer out to inspect the property and report back at a future meeting as to what needed to be done.
By Louise Edwards with The Citizen 7/9/2008
It's a puzzler: What do you do when the city reconstructs your road, and your driveway ends up four-and-a-half feet too high? In Centerville resident Cathy Fruth's case, she decided to bring the matter before the city council. At its regular June 25 meeting, the Centerville City Council heard that re-grading work done on Fruth's driveway leading to her property on Old Mill Road as part of a city project had left her with a seven percent grade, which she was finding too steep to navigate. "Twice I have almost hit other cars, not being able to stop because of [the steepness of the drive now]," she told council members. Fruth said that through the snow and ice of the winter, she had been unable to access her drive in her vehicle without crossing the street and "taking three runs at it." Council members resolved to send the city engineer out to inspect the property and report back at a future meeting as to what needed to be done.
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