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HomeMy WebLinkAboutSeptember 29, 2003 Budget Minut 1 LIBRARY BOARD/CITY COUNCIL BUDGET MEETING SEPTEMBER 29, 2003 7:00 P.M. The joint City Council/Library Board meeting about the library budget for 2004 was held in the activity room September 29, 2003, at 7:00 p.m. Those present were: Walt Fehst, Barbara Miller, Bill Elrite, Nancy Hoium, Patricia Sowada, Catherine Vesley, Mayor Julienne Wyckoff, Bobby Williams, Bruce Nawrocki, Tami Erickson, Bruce Kelzenberg, and Rebecca Loader. Mayor Julienne Wyckoff called the meeting to order at 7:05p.m. Barbara Miller welcomed everyone and introductions for the new Council members were made. Becky presented an overview of the budget materials that were distributed. The activity description, objectives for 2004 and budget comments were discussed. The following items were highlighted during the budget comments presentation: no personnel contracts being settled for 2004, 2003 figures for wage and benefit information were used in anticipation of a wage freeze; the ILS (Integrated Library System) license fee; electronic databases, decrease in building repairs; and 5% increase in utility charges. Bruce Nawrocki questioned how the 5% figure was derived, since Minnegasco/Center Point Energy has recently sent out notices about a 25% increase to homeowners. Bill Elrite answered that when the budget process was started in April the 5% figure is what Center Point energy projected at the time. Minimum level of support for Maintenance of Effort and Per Capita information was discussed. Bobby Williams commented on the fact that there is only a 70 cent difference between the per capita for the County and Columbia Heights. The summary by class sheet was reviewed. Bruce Nawrocki objected to the adopted 2003 budget figures being used rather than the amended figures. It was noted that the amended figures are listed on the page “Comparison of Library Budgets”. The $209,292 figure in transfers under the actual 2002 budget figures was explained. This transfer was made from the Library fund balance to a capital replacement fund. The revenue page was reviewed and fines were discussed. Staff tried two campaigns to increase revenue this year: to increase video rental with marketing ideas and to encourage patrons to pay old fines. While reviewing the detail expense portion of the budget there was a comment made again about the utility charges being over budget already for the current year and only a 5% increase being allowed for next year. The summary of cost factors page was reviewed. Pages 11 and 12 of the budget book list these items. The final page of the budget book listed a comparison of library budgets and major changes. 2 5 major areas were highlighted and major points were listed. Selected line items that received significant cuts were highlighted. Julienne Wyckoff asked about the Library Foundation. Barb Miller explained that the Foundation was set up as a registered charitable organization, and listed the names of the new Board members who will be inducted next week. The floor was opened to general comments. Bruce Nawrocki commented on his interpretation of Governor Pawlenty’s cuts to local aid as a need for downsizing. Service and safety issues were discussed in conjunction with this. There was also a discussion of the chance for local governments to raise taxes to the 60% amount that the Governor has allowed to make up for the cuts in LGA. Tami Erickson voiced her concerns about the quality of services you need to provide for residents and especially the services of the library and the programs for children. There being no further questions the meeting was adjourned at 8:00 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Jeanine M. Schmidt, Secretary to the Library Board of Trustees. The City of Columbia Heights does not discriminate on the basis of disability in the admission or access to, or treatment or employment in, its services, programs, or activities. Upon request, accommodation will be provided to allow individuals with disabilities to participate in all City of Columbia Heights' services, programs, and activities.