Discuss Support of Fiscal Disparities Resolution

Staff presented a report on fiscal disparities to the Finance Committee on October 25, 2011, and placed a report from that meeting on the Consent Agenda of the November 7, 2011 City Council meeting.  Included in the report was an attachment titled City of Ramsey Fiscal Disparities Contribution/Distribution Value 2011 through 2012.  That document is attached to this case as well for reference.   

Earlier last week, staff received a letter from Kathy Tingelstad of Anoka County requesting that the City of Ramsey pass a resolution requesting no change in fiscal disparities.  Ms. Tingelstad stated that there may be an effort to dismantle the fiscal disparities program and if eliminated, most homeowners and business property tax statements in the Anoka County area would see an average increase of 10% on the combined city/school/county taxes.  Without fiscal disparities, an approximate total tax increase on a $200,000 residential homestead in Ramsey, for 2011, would be $38 (City), $156 (School District #11), and $36 (Anoka County) for an approximate total of $230.  (The example shows only the largest school district within the City).  She noted this would also result in more disparity in the entire Metro area. 


Anoka County passed a resolution requesting no change in fiscal disparities at their October 25 County Board meeting.  That resolution, amended for Ramsey City Council adoption, is attached for review.  If Council is in agreement with the resolution, staff will place it on the Consent Agenda of the December 13 City Council meeting for formal adoption.  Following adoption, staff will forward the resolution on to Anoka County to allow for them to communicate a united message to Legislators for the upcoming Legislative Session.

N/A

Based upon discussion.