4.2. SR 09-28-1998'ity of
MEMORANDUM
Item #4.2.
TO:
FROM:
DATE:
SUBJECT:
Mayor & City Council
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Building and Zoning Vehicle
I was not at the September 21, 1998, City Council meeting so I am not privy
to all the issues that were discussed. However, the Council should note that
the funds for the vehicle are planned to come from the equipment reserves
and not the 1998 or 1999 general fund budget (i.e. tax levy). Accordingly,
this is really not a budget related issue, but is an issue of whether or not it is
appropriate to have four wheel drive inspector vehicles.
Regarding the building and zoning operating budget, the Council should note
that this budget is very tight and always has been very fight. Traditionally,
close to 90 percent of the building and zoning budget is dedicated to personal
services. In 1999, the budget calls for $35,900 to be spent on supplies, other
services and charges, and capital outlay. In 1996, the actual non personal
services expenses for building and zoning activities was $36,836. In 1997,
this amount was $36,213. The budget in 1998 is $32,400 and, based on past
history, is low. Accordingly you can see that there is not too much to cut from
the proposed 1999 budget. Regarding the conversation about conferences
and schools in the 1999 budget, the Council should note that the original
request from the department head was for $7,750. This was reduced to
$7,100 for the August 31 worksession and now sits at $6,100 based on the
September 14 budget that the Council reviewed.
In summary, the Council should not consider this an operating expense, but
a capital outlay expense that is scheduled to come out of the equipment
reserves. The Council decision should be based on need and the
appropriateness of having a four wheel vehicle in the inspector's department.
I think that Steve's memo from September 21 provided some good comments
and I support his recommendation to purchase a four wheel vehicle.
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13065 Orono Parkway · P.O. Box 490 · Elk River, MN 55330 · TDD & Phone: (612) 441-7420 · Fax: (612) 441-7425