Adopt Resolution #16-03-053 Supporting Principles for Reform of the Metropolitan Council

Purpose:  To formalize the City Council's position regarding Metropolitan Council Governance Structure.

Background:  This topic was reviewed by the City Council at work session on April 23, 2016, and brought forward to the Council with modifications reflecting that discussion. 

Recently, Anoka County and three other metropolitan counties, put together a coalition that is advocating for a change in the structure of the Metropolitan Council.  As part of that meeting, the Council received documents explaining the County position, and documents outlining the position of the Metro Cities organization.

 Below are the points/observations put together by staff for consideration:

• Staff supports consideration of options for a Metropolitan Council governance structure that may increase accountability and address concerns of regional stakeholders and policy makers.
   
• Staff believes that there should be opportunities for local communities to provide input on ideas before any legislative change in Metropolitan Council governance is made.
   
• Staff recognizes the support Metropolitan Council has provided for past projects in the City of Ramsey:
  • Parking Ramp
  • Sunwood Drive
  • Center Street
  • Sunwood Townhomes (TH 47)
  • Sunwood Village
  • The Draw Park and Amphitheater
  • Rail Station
     
• The Metropolitan Council has provided support for the planning and implementation of future projects:
  •    Mississippi Skyway
  •    Housing Projects in The COR
  •    Housing Projects within the community as a whole
     
• The City of Ramsey expects to continue an ongoing partnership with the Metropolitan Council, especially as we endeavor upon updating our Comprehensive Plan.
   
• Staff recognizes that the Metropolitan Council has made progress toward making the Comprehensive Plan Update and Amendment processes more user friendly within the past 12 months.
• Attached for Council information is the Metropolitan Council Budget - and - the recommendation of the Metro Cities Task Force on Metropolitan Council Governance.
• Attached is a Resolution for consideration, that outlines Supporting Principles of Reform for the Metropolitan Council.

 

Not applicable.

City Administrator

 

Adopt the attached Resolution #16-03-053  Supporting Principles for Reform of the Metropolitan Council.