HomeMy WebLinkAboutCCMinutes_2003_09_02 - special 125
Brookings City Council
Tuesday, September 2, 2003
The Brookings City Council convened in a special planning meeting with the Utility Board on
Tuesday, September 2, 2003 at noon in the Research and Technology Center with the following
members present: Mayor Scott Munsterman, Council Members Tim Reed, Tom Bezdichek,
Julie Whatey, Tom Bozied, Mike McClemans, and Doris Roden. Members and staff of the
Utility Board, City Manager Mike Williams, City Attorney Steve Britzman, and City Clerk Shari
Thornes were also present.
Council Resolntion No. 46-03. On August 12�'the City Council passed the following resolution
pertaining to the annual Utility transfer to the City General Fund:
WHEREAS, the City of Brookings has experienced dramatic reductions in the transfer
from the Brookings Municipal Utilities; and
WHEREAS, a key part of the BMU mission is to provide a return to the citizens of the
community; and .
WHEREAS, the City of Brookings has responded to this revenue shortfall of over
$1,000,000 by eliminating capital expenditures, dramatically eliminating operating
expenditures, and eliminating personnel; and
WHEREAS, services have been harmed and will be eliminated because of this transfer
reduction.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the City Council requests that the
transfer from BMIJ to the City be increased by $300,000 annually for at least three years
commencing in 2004 and the BMtT Board and City Council schedule a joint meeting as
soon as possible.
Options to Stabilize the Transfer to Citv General. Mayor Mur�sterman suggested the only
options to stabilize the transfer to city general would be to either restructure the utility business or
raise utility rates. The only revenue sources for city general are property taxes which are maxed
out, the utility transfer, sales tax, and fees and fines which generate minimal revenue.
Craig Osvog, Utilities General Manager, provided an overview of the Municipal Utilities
budgeting process.
Larson Ice Center Rates. Council Member McClemans asked if there was an alternate rate
structure other than"large commercial" available for the Larson Ice Center. No,the Utilities have
a policy not to make any charitable contributions or rate restructuring for any organization.
Future Plans for the Water Deaartment. The water treatment facility capacity was exceeded
in 2002. An in depth study indicates a need to expand the east plant at a cost of$12-13 million.
Future Meeting Date. The two groups will meet in approximately two months.
A motion was made by McClemans, seconded by Reed, to adjourn at 1:10 p.m. AII present voted
yes; motion carried.
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