Analysis 1: Throughout our budget process, I supported lowering the budget in large part to limit the increase in property taxes. In order to lower property taxes, I voted to cut many areas. I supported budget cuts of as little as $200 in an approximate $12 million budget because every little bit helps. At the meeting on Wednesday night, the Council considered the budget one last time.
The City budgeted $26,861,971 for the fiscal year 2008-2009. This was a budget cut of approximately $4.5 million from the 07-08 budget. $3.5 million was cut from the capital improvement fund while approximately $1 million was cut from the City's operating budget.
Conclusion 1: I voted to pass the preliminary budget which includes a little less than the 3% allowed increase in the property tax portion of the budget. The preliminary budget passed but through a technicality we will have to meet at least two more times to approve the budget.
Issue 2: Whether to reconsider a zone change in/near downtown Sandpoint.
Facts 2: Dr. Pierce requested consideration of a zone change on his property at July's Council meeting. Dr. Pierce wasn't able to testify at the meeting because of several emergencies. At July's meeting, some members voted against the zone change in part because Dr. Pierce was not present to answer questions. I voted to approve the zone change. It was denied by a majority of the Council.
Rule 2: Dr. Pierce could reapply for a zone change and go again before Planning and Zoning and then the City Council. This would cost approximately $1,000 in fees. Otherwise, a Council member who was in the majority decision could ask to reconsider the zone change.
Analysis 2: Councilman Hawkins moved to reconsider the zone change. Based upon our City attorney's advice that this was legal, I voted to reconsider the zone change decision in part because I believe that Dr. Pierce should have a decision based upon the merits of his request.
Conclusion 2: I voted to reconsider the zone change as Dr. Pierce wasn't able to testify before the Council as to why he had requested the zone change.
Issue 3: Whether to raise user fees.
Conclusion 3: I voted to raise many user fees so that they actually reflect current market conditions or the cost of the services that we provide.
Issue 4: Whether to approve a subdivision development east of the airport.
Conclusion 4: I voted to approve the development even though I don't believe it is in the best interest of Sandpoint. In my opinion, the layout doesn't encourage walking. Secondly, the development is low density in an area near town. Regardless, the owner has the right to use his property in the best way that he sees fit. For that reason, I voted to approve the subdivision.
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