7. 26-0101 Consideration of a Resolution Ordering Plans, Specifications, Cost Estimates and Engineer's Report for Annual Street Lighting and Landscaping Assessments (No Budget Impact) (Finance Director Bretthauer).
ADOPT RESOLUTION NO. 26-0019
About 20 years ago IIRC, these districts were self-supporting, and had a reasonable fund balance. Bruce Moe then decided to strip out all district funds to be used solely for the Strand lighting district project, with the anticipation that a voted increase would occur to get all back in order. That never happened even though the process would be "easier" than the recent storm drain fee increase. As a result, the Strand and Gaslight districts (and I expect, Downtown) are getting subsidized by other parts of the city. I suggest the City go out for that voted increase (I'm in a gaslight district). Also, the staff report should include what each district's fees would be if every district paid for their own costs. If the vote is successful, the "savings" from freeing up the subsidies should be dedicated to something related (like city beautification).
About 20 years ago IIRC, these districts were self-supporting, and had a reasonable fund balance. Bruce Moe then decided to strip out all district funds to be used solely for the Strand lighting district project, with the anticipation that a voted increase would occur to get all back in order. That never happened even though the process would be "easier" than the recent storm drain fee increase. As a result, the Strand and Gaslight districts (and I expect, Downtown) are getting subsidized by other parts of the city. I suggest the City go out for that voted increase (I'm in a gaslight district). Also, the staff report should include what each district's fees would be if every district paid for their own costs. If the vote is successful, the "savings" from freeing up the subsidies should be dedicated to something related (like city beautification).