Provide feedback on the DRAFT question to voters to repeal the current City Charter section 1.05.1 and replace with new section 1.05.1 as set forth providing a permanent, non-cumulative 60 mill levy commencing in fiscal year 2021 for police, fire, and related public safety expenses on the ballot in September 2020.

May 27th the Council directed staff to continue taking the necessary steps to repeal and replace Public Safety 2 (PS2) in 2020. No changes have been made to the draft language since last evenings meeting.  The item is being placed on the agenda so that we can discuss it if necessary prior to the June 8 first reading. 

PS2 provides $8.2 million annually to help fund police, fire and related services. At the time voters approved this additional funding, it was estimated to require levying 60 mills to generate the $8.2 million. Council's direction is to replace this section of the Charter with a 60 mill proposal to the voters. 60 mills in 2020 is estimated to raise $12.2 million, thus generating more money to help support police, fire and related services. The 2004 levy is capped to generate $8.2 million. The proposed 2020 levy is capped at 60 mills. As the value of a mill changes, the amount of money raised will also change. This is expected to help offset inflation, thus helping both departments to retain their current levels of services. On May 18th and 27th, Council directed the City Administrator to continue to pursue this idea bringing back refined language as soon as possible. In order for any levy request to positively impact the fiscal year 2021 budget, the ballot language must be reviewed and approved on first reading no later than June 8.  It is critical to be clear and concise on what the voters are being asked to consider.

As defined by Council

If voters approve the proposed Charter amendment, it is estimated to generate an additional $4,000,000 to help support police, fire and related services.