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FY 2006 Budget Hrg MVM Letter DU~~E ~YN-~ MEMORANDUM March 2, 2005 TO: The Honorable Mayor and City Council Members FROM: Michael C. Van Milligen, City Manager SUBJECT: Fiscal Year 2006 Budget Hearing City Council has completed departmental budget reviews involving approximately twelve hours over six hearing dates. The hearings were televised over City Channel 8, meeting notices have been published and posted and budget documents placed on file at the Library and City Clerk's Office for the public to review. In addition, a copy of the Fiscal Year 2006 budget was displayed on the City website for public review. As previously reported by Budget Director Dawn Lang, the City of Dubuque received revised January 1, 2004 valuation totals from Denise Dolan, Dubuque County Auditor which affected the Fiscal Year 2006 budget. The valuations were revised mainly due to the issuance of final annexation documents by the City Development Board for the City of Dubuque. Residential and Agricultural Residential assessed valuations increased $4,129,701 (or $1,973,370 in taxable value) and Agricultural Land and Buildings increased $533,078 in assessed value. This translates to $20,750 of additional property tax revenue into the FY 2006 City of Dubuque budget. Through the budget hearings, City Council has recommended that the following items be added to the FY 2006 recommended budget: · Fund increased compensation for the Mayor and City Council effective January 1, 2006 as recommended by the City Council Compensation Task Force ($1,877); · Fund hanging flower baskets on the Riverwalk in the Port of Dubuque. Purchase of hardware and equipment for installation of the hanging flower baskets ($13,960) and purchase of the hanging flower baskets and labor in Spring 2006 for maintenance of hanging flower baskets ($3,713). · ADA Symposium training for the Engineering Assistant" ($1,200). I have provided a summary of the tax rate impact of the above items. Offset by the increased valuation adjustment, there is no increase of property taxes for the average residential homeowner. Fiscal Year 2006 includes a 3.7% reduction in the property tax rate to coincide with the application of the property values for the new City-wide reassessment process. This will bring the City property tax rate down to $9.6991 per thousand (from $10.072 in FY 2005). This preserves the goal of no property tax increase for the average homeowner and moves the City of Dubuque to first place in having the lowest property tax rate of the nine largest cities in the State of Iowa. I have included an updated Fiscal Year 2006 City Manager Budget Transmittal memo and various tables from the Citizen's Guide. The transmittal memo includes revised comparison information updated with FY 06 recommended rates from other Cities when available. In addition, I have added information regarding broadband access and community marketing to the community issues section. Attached to your agenda is a listing of the order of departments that City Council follows when asking for input. The action required of City Council to finalize the Fiscal Year 2006 budget process is to hold the public hearing, consider public input and act on the attached resolutions, which provide for adoption of the recommended budget as amended and the five year capital improvement program I respectfully recommend Mayor and City Council adoption of the Fiscal Year 2006 budget with these amendments. ~1 ! 11'/ /1/ . . ... 1. II ! L/Ct3 / i6\ Michael C. Van Milligen -------- MCVM/dll Attachment cc: Barry Lindahl, Corporation Council Cindy Steinhauser, Assistant City Manager Dawn Lang, Budget Director c w c z w :t :t o o w ~ ~ en z o en en w en ~ ~ o 3: I- W C) C ::J m CD o o N ~ <( W >- ...J <( o ~ LL. ~ o ~ LL. en :t w !::: z o t= ~ ...J o Z ::J o o >- !::: o o o CO ..,; 1.0 -q- 0> CO CO ..... a> ::J ro > a> .0 m (/) (/) a> (/) C/) <( Zw OC!)W lJ~:E ctwO D..>X ~<C ......... 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(Y') -q- O'l 1001.0......... -q- ..... a> ::J ro >a> a>- -m .go:: x x m m 1-1- - ='=c "0 a> a> E L.._ U ~ ~ x,~ x m"O m I- <( I- o?f? 00 cici ~ o?f? 00 cici ~ I a> a> 0> o>C cm m..c J::u U- c L..a> ~<..> - L.. oa> 00.. I have provided a summary of the tax rate impact of the above items. Offset by the increased valuation adjustment, there is no increase of property taxes for the average residential homeowner. Fiscal Year 2006 includes a 3.7% reduction in the property tax rate to coincide with the application of the property values for the new City-wide reassessment process. This will bring the City property tax rate down to $9.6991 per thousand (from $10.072 in FY 2005). This preserves the goal of no property tax increase for the average homeowner and moves the City of Dubuque to first place in having the lowest property tax rate of the nine largest cities in the State of Iowa. I have included an updated Fiscal Year 2006 City Manager Budget Transmittal memo and various tables from the Citizen's Guide. The transmittal memo includes revised comparison information updated with FY 06 recommended rates from other Cities when available. In addition, I have added information regarding broadband access and community marketing to the community issues section. Attached to your agenda is a listing of the order of departments that City Council follows when asking for input. The action required of City Council to finalize the Fiscal Year 2006 budget process is to hold the public hearing, consider public input and act on the attached resolutions, which provide for adoption of the recommended budget as amended and the five year capital improvement program I respectfully recommend Mayor and City Council adoption of the Fiscal Year 2006 budget with these amendments. ///l, I C( /11(\ , i--. / l(;.1.-j if} Michael C. Van Milligen ----, MCVM/dll Attachment cc: Barry Lindahl, Corporation Council Cindy Steinhauser, Assistant City Manager Dawn Lang, Budget Director c w c z w :!: :!: o o w ~ ~ tI) z o tI) tI) w tI) ~ ~ o ~ .... w C) c ~ m U) o o N ~ <( w >- ...J <( o ~ LL :2: o ~ LL tI) :!: w !::: z o t= o <( ...J o Z ~ o o >- t: o o o CO ~ LO "'"- 0> CO CO ...... Q) :J ro > Q) 15 ctl 00 00 Q) 00 00 <( ........ 0> Z W CO OC)w~ ti ~:lE '-' ctwO Q.>:J: :lE<C ........ C") "'" N W ~ ...... ~~ g ~~ '-' ~ D::~ ctZ ..J:J ..JO O:E Cct ........ o LO ,..... o N ~ '-' 6u!JJnaSH UON=N 6u!JJnasH=H 0::: c o :;::::; ctl '0 C Q) E E o c..> ~........ +-,0 Q)""" O)C") '0 - :JC") .ob; ~......- c~ 'oo~ Q) 00 :lE g> m w ~ t; !:: c..> E LL C C o 0 0 +:i:;::; Z ctl ctl o :J:J i= ctl ctl Q. > > D:: "6 Q) u 1::5.0 '^ ctl ctlx ." 0. W E~ C _'_' ~ Z w :E Q) ~ :Q ~ ~ D.. >- W +-' CO co o o ~ N ...... ...... o o o ~ ,..... ,..... 00 ...... ~ 0::: ........ 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O>~o LO 0cF. 0 ~OO> NOO N 00 -1'-0') o~o C") 00 >- :!: .CO LL LO ' 'I:t'l:t 0') ~ ~LOO') LO '-' 'I:t " CII ... Q) c: Q) ... .r:. c: Q. ~ ~ 0 ~ 0 " ':I!. ct 0 Q) CD E ;t. 0 :J: ........ 0cF. LOO OOLON LO CIS O')N ,.....00C") N 00 := 0,..... ~co,....: C") 00 .0 c: C") , C")"'" 0') ~ Q) It') LOO LO '-' "'" I " 0 ...... 'j;) >- Q) LL D:: Q) m e Q) ~ c: <D 0 Q) Q)O) - :J O)C (J (0 +-' cctl CIS +-' C coJ:: Q. ><D :OQ) .r:.U E Q)+-' ~ E U...... -co C .00:: u1ii 00 .....Q) ctl x .2- Q) ctl~ X X X ctl ctl ctl '0 ctl OQ) 1-1- I- <( I- oa.. N ,..... o o o o ~ o o N ...... ~ z +-' C ctl +-' 00 '00 00 <( 0) C ';:: <D Q) ,S 0) C W <D .r:. ...... ..... .E 0) ,S ,S ~ ... ~B~ ~<k~ MEMORANDUM March 3, 2005 TO: The Honorable Mayor and City Council Members FROM: Michael C. Van Milligen, City Manager SUBJECT: Fiscal Year 2006 Budget Transmittal Message As the Fiscal Year 2006 Budget Year is considered, I believe in this watershed year that we should take a historical perspective, and then reflect on our current circumstances. But first, why do I call this a watershed year? In 1999 the City of Dubuque had no 4- lane connections to an interstate highway system. By the end of 2005, the City of Dubuque will have five 4-lane connections to the outside world as follows: .:. 1999 - Highway 61 4-laned to Interstate 80 at Davenport, .:. 2004 - Highway 20 4-laned to Interstate 35 north of Ames, .:. 2004 - Highway 151 opened 4-lanes to Highway 380 in Cedar Rapids, .:. 2004 - Highway 218 in Waterloo, connected to Dubuque by 4-lane Highway 20, opened 4-lane as part of the Avenues of the Saints that connects Highway 20 to Minneapolis/St. Paul, and .:. 2005 - Highway 151 will open 4-lanes to Interstate 90-94 at Madison, Wisconsin. You are about to hear an extraordinary story about a community that averaged 8.9% unemployment for the entire decade of the 1980s with an unemployment rate over 14% in 1983. This community lost 7.8% of its population (4,836 people) between 1980 and 1990. It was a community with very few, if any, lots available for industrial development. The town was dominated by two major employers, one that had cut back 6,000 jobs and the other was on the brink of closure, which would eliminate 2,000 jobs. This town had a blighted downtown area, home to the XXX Cinema and the Gentleman's Bookstore, with many vacant storefronts, a blighted riverfront with falling-down buildings, polluted ground and huge, abandoned storage tanks. A town with aging parks, and too few of those, and a street system that was decaying at a much faster rate than it was being rebuilt. A town with no 4-lane connections to the outside world, an airport in serious need of upgrading and phone service provided by one antiquated analogue telephone switch. This community had hundreds of homes vulnerable to stormwater flooding and operated an outdated water plant and sewer plant. A town with vacant and abandoned March 3, 2005 Page 2 of 24 homes that needed attention. A town in need of an arterial roadway, having a short section completed with only two lanes. A property tax rate reaching $14.58 per thousand in 1987 and all but non-existent annexation. A 1983 publication of the Dubuque Area Chamber of Commerce entitled "The Dubuque Connection," said, "Dubuque's plight is becoming desperate. It suffered more severely during the recent recession, and has for the past three years had the highest unemployment rate of Iowa's SMSA's (largest cities). That unfortunate fact is no surprise to Dubuquers. It has been losing both industry and retail business consistently for the past decade." The publication went on to say, "Dubuque is losing its people. Recent estimates show 10% of the housing stock vacant or available for sale." Then (new and existing) City Council Members and community leaders decided it was time for a change. This town had some tremendous assets to build upon. A historic past; a hardworking, caring citizenry; beautiful rock bluffs and hills; the mighty Mississippi River; and, most importantly, vision, leadership and a willingness to form partnerships externally and internally. From that, with the Mayor and City Council providing much of those final three key elements, grew the Dubuque of today and the bright future that exists for tomorrow. Today, Dubuque is a community receiving national and international awards (Attachment I), identified as a model for how to do things right. Elected officials are selected for leadership positions with the Iowa Department of Economic Development, National League of Cities, Iowa League of Cities, and others. Property taxes are down and benefits to citizens are up. Dubuque is truly the "Masterpiece on the Mississippi." The City Council's entrepreneurial leadership, stressing partnerships and a willingness to make difficult policy decisions, allowing for calculated risk-taking, has set Dubuque on a dramatic course for a bright future. American City and County Magazine selected Dubuque as one of only six "Crown Communities" in 2003, recognizing the community's achievements. A 2004 Julien's Journal article written by the editor and publisher referred to the last 10 years in Dubuque as, ".. .what is viewed by many as among the most productive and exciting periods in the City's history." We all remember the December 2002 editorial in the Des Moines Register titled, "Dubuque Shows How-Few Iowa Cities were hit harder in the 80's. Few have a better outlook now." The editorial went on to say, "The Dubuque story might offer lessons for every Iowa city." The May 2004 issue of Expansion Management Magazine selected Dubuque as one of just 50 five-star communities in the country. Identifying schools and home affordability as the two most important quality of life issues, they selected Dubuque as #7 in quality of schools and #1 in housing affordability. They also ranked Dubuque #11 in peace of mind for its level of safety. March 3, 2005 Page 3 of 24 In 2004, Country Music Television named Dubuque County as the #4 Top Destination to Visit Worldwide. In May 2003, USA Weekend magazine selected the Upper Mississippi River Valley as the Third Most Beautiful Place in America. The National Trust for Historic Preservation, the country's largest private, nonprofit preservation organization, named Dubuque to its 2005 list of America's Dozen Distinctive Destinations, an annual list of unique and lovingly preserved communities in the United States. The Milken Institute's 2004 Best Performing Cities Index, which monitors where jobs are being created, ranked Dubuque 34th out of 118 small U.S. metropolitan areas. Forbes Magazine ranked Dubuque 13th out of 168 cities for the Cost of Doing Business. The Metro Business Retention Index ranked Dubuque 2nd in the nation for business retention in November 2001. Most recently, the January 5, 2005, editorial in the Telegraph Herald was titled, "Good news plentiful for Dubuque in past year - From new construction to businesses adding jobs, the City has progressed." The growth and progress you are about to review has come to Dubuque without creating a huge financial burden for the citizens and without mortgaging their future. The City of Dubuque property tax rate for the City-portion of the property tax bill reached a high of $14.58 in Fiscal Year 1987. The Dubuque Greyhound Park and Casino, the Local Option Sales Tax and operating efficiencies brought the property tax rate down to $12.61 by Fiscal Year 1994. The current recommendation for the Fiscal Year 2006 property tax rate is $9.6991 per thousand. This will mean that the Fiscal Year 1987 property tax rate of $14.58 was 50% higher than the Fiscal Year 2006 property tax rate of $9.6991. The City of Dubuque's bond rating was upgraded in 2003 and is the second highest rating in the State of Iowa (Aa2). Of the nine largest cities in the State of Iowa, the City of Dubuque has the lowest percentage of legal debt margin projected to be utilized for Fiscal Year 2006 at 21 %. The highest ranked city, Des Moines (81 %), is 290% higher than Dubuque, and the average of the other cities (59%) is 184% higher than Dubuque. March 3, 2005 Page 4 of 24 Iowa's Largest Cities Legal Debt Margin Actual Total debt Assessed applicable to Percentage Value of limitation of legal debt Taxable Legal Debt (General Legal Debt margin Rank City Property Limit (5%) Obligation) Margin utilized 9 Des Moines 8,627,347,420 431,367,371 348,112,808 83,254,563 80.70% 8 Cedar Rapids 7,507,195,160 375,359,758 284,605,000 90,754,758 75.82% 7 Sioux City (FY06) 3,224,114,340 161,205,717 103,600,000 57,605,717 64.27% 6 Waterloo 2,421,873,280 121,093,664 75,643,160 45,450,504 62.47% 5 Davenport 4,234,680,680 211,734,034 129,560,074 82,173,960 61.19% 4 Iowa City 3,298,594,900 164,929,745 86,120,000 78,809,745 52.22% 3 Council Bluffs 2,583,552,180 129,177,609 57,645,000 71,532,609 44.62% 2 Ames 2,749,234,360 137,461,718 39,009,000 98,452,718 28.38% 1 Dubuque (FY06) 2,775,778,478 138,788,924 28,714,306 110,074,618 20.69% AVERAGE WITHOUT DUBUQUE 58.71% 2004 was another banner year for the City of Dubuque. The renegotiated 10-year Dubuque Racing Association lease, with the lease payment going from ~% of coin-in to 1 % of coin-in, will allow the City to aggressively pursue the City Council priorities while maintaining no property tax increase to the average homeowner. This will include a 3.7% reduction in the property tax rate in Fiscal Year 2006 to coincide with the application of the property values for the new City-wide reassessment process. This will bring the City property tax rate down to $9.6991 per thousand. The City of Dubuque will have the lowest property tax rate of the nine largest cities in the State of Iowa, probably for the first time ever. The highest ranked city (Waterloo - $18.79) will have a property tax rate 94% higher than Dubuque's, and the average of the other eight large cities ($16.19) will be 67% higher than Dubuque. Access to new revenue from the DRA helps, but so does the City's continued efforts to operate efficiently, with a reduction in workforce since the 1980's of approximately 70 employees, or a 12% reduction of the City workforce, while adding many labor-intensive new services, like recycling and yard waste collection, and 16 new sworn police positions. This additional year of no property tax increase to the average homeowner will bring that record to 11 consecutive years without a property tax increase for the average homeowner1, with five of those years showing a decrease to the average homeowner, and an actual decrease from City Council actions of 7% in property tax payments to the City for the average homeowner. 1 The State of Iowa increased property taxes in Fiscal Year 2004 by reducing the amount of credits provided to residential property owners. March 3, 2005 Page 5 of 24 Tax Rate Comparison for Nine Largest Iowa Cities Rank City FY 06Tax Rate $18.79 (FY 05) $18.39 $17.97 $17.73 $17.22 $15.24 $13.99 $10.18 $9.6991 $16.19 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 Waterloo Council Bluffs Sioux City Iowa City Des Moines Davenport Cedar Rapids Ames Dubuque AVERAGE WITHOUT DUBUQUE What else has contributed to this being a watershed time for Dubuque? In November 2003, the Grand River Center opened to rave reviews from the community. This major project was completed ahead of schedule and under budget. We all remember the property acquisitions, grant applications, studies and partnerships that led to the completion of the signature project for the City of Dubuque using $20 million in State of Iowa Vision Iowa money. The Riverwalk and the Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium opened in 2003, with the museum also using $20 million in Vision Iowa money. The entire America's River project used millions of dollars in federal money, including the $2 million in Federal Economic Development Administration money that facilitated the relocation of the Adams Company. The relocation of Dubuque Hardwoods and Miller Logging was accomplished in late 2002. The Pay-As-You-Throw refuse collection program has been a success with a 24% reduction in refuse and a 33% increase in recyclable material, saving landfill space. Including 2004 (927,735 square feet), the City has a six-year annual average of almost 1 million square feet of non-residential construction per year. This almost 6 million square feet of non-residential construction over six years far exceeds the annual average of 350,000 square feet of non-residential construction from 1990 to 1998. The year 2004 also saw continued growth in the number of residential units, with 536 units being constructed (including two major senior assisted living facilities). This is the highest number in recent memory (with 1995's number of 209 being the next highest). The 2004 total of 536 units is more than the last three years combined (482). The 2004 total of 536 units is also 272% higher than the previous nine-year average of 144 units per year. March 3, 2005 Page 6 of 24 Building Services Permit Clerk Connie Riedl advises that June 2004 was the highest month for permit fees ($89,696) since she began with the City 24 years ago. That record was broken in October 2004 when there was $91,159 in permit fees. The total assessed valuation of Dubuque has increased 83.2% over the last 15 years, from $973,733,675 in 1992 to $1,784,090,311, which is an average increase of 4.46% per year. The City's efforts to target this growth in Urban Renewal and Economic Development Districts like downtown and the riverfront are having some affect. Tax Increment Financing values have increased 172% since Fiscal Year 1994, or an average of 15.44% per year. The Greater Dubuque Area has been ranked 1st by the Milken Institute for High Tech Output Growth from 1997 to 2002. American Airlines added a fourth daily flight to Dubuque. Enplanements at the airport are up 1.04% in 2004. American Airlines enplanements are up 19.58% in 2004. The Iowa Welcome Center has identified a marked increase in visitor counts, with monthly visitor counts up 20 to 25%. In 2002, Dubuque County finished the year with an overall average unemployment rate lower than the State of Iowa for the first time in a quarter of a century. In 2003, Dubuque County made it two consecutive years of an unemployment rate lower than the State of Iowa. In 2004, Dubuque County not only had an unemployment rate lower than the State of Iowa for the third consecutive year, but the rate was also the lowest of the nine largest cities in the state. In 2002, Dubuque, Des Moines and Sioux City were the only metro areas in Iowa to finish the year with net job gains. Statistics kept by Iowa Workforce Development show the positive momentum Dubuque is experiencing. By comparing the number of jobs in Dubuque County in 1980 (43,700) with 1990 (46,000) with November 2004 (53,500), you can see that efforts being put forth to attract and retain jobs have been successful, with the rate of job creation increasing from 230 per year in the 1980's to over 500 per year from 1990 to 2004. The Greater Dubuque Development Corporation commissioned a study through the East Central Intergovernmental Association to analyze how conducive the City is to development. It was noted that there was a dramatic improvement over the last 10 years, especially in the area of Planning and Building Departments. Partnerships and City investment have been key in the redevelopment of downtown, including the Port of Dubuque. Since 1985 the following has occurred with most of the investment and jobs happening recently: March 3, 2005 Page 7 of 24 Fa~ade Building New Real Estate Public Net New Renovation Rehabilitation Construction Sales Improvement Jobs $5,363,705 $69,180,980 $118,517,663 $82,870,196 $26,804,614 +1,759 34% since 61 % since 83% since 57% since 79% since 44% 2003 1999 2000 1999 1999 since 2000 The stagnant-to-decreasing population trend for the 1980 census (62,374) to the 1990 census (57,538) is starting to turn around with the 2000 census (57,686) results showing an increase. Dubuque continues to grow geographically. Between 1990-1995, only 40 acres were annexed into the City of Dubuque. Since 1995, just over 3,700 acres have been annexed into the City. Much of this is a credit to the utility extensions by the City, which opened up almost 7,000 acres of land for development. Transportation links are being created. The federal government has provided most of the $25 million that has been invested at the Dubuque Regional Airport since 1995. Between Wisconsin, Iowa and Illinois, over $400 million is being spent between 1998 and 2005 to create 4-lane connections to the Quad Cities, Ames, Cedar Rapids, Minneapolis and Madison, with improvements to Chicago. There is the possibility of an additional $45 million in federal funds in the new Transportation Bill for the expansion of the Julien Dubuque Bridge and to build the Southwest Arterial. The City Council realizes the importance of Dubuque's neighborhoods. All existing parks were remodeled and 21 new parks, consisting of over 60 acres, were created. This does not include the several school playgrounds that have been equipped by the City and opened to the public. The City Council has more than tripled the commitment to the street program to an annual average of $7.5 million, reconstructing or resurfacing 70% of the streets between 1990 and 2009. $9,178,415 is recommended in Fiscal Year 2006 (this includes new streets in Dubuque Industrial Center West). Approximately 30 abandoned properties were purchased and rehabilitated. Sixteen police officers were added and Community-Oriented Policing was implemented, reducing high-impact crimes in targeted neighborhoods. Historic Preservation was emphasized, with new financial support programs and the adoption of standards for projects. A new full-time position in the Planning Department is recommended in Fiscal Year 2006 to be dedicated to Historic Preservation, replacing a half-time position. Prosperity spills over to many areas, including the schools. The Dubuque Community School District is completing a new $30 million middle school, completed a multi-million renovation of Hempstead High School, and is planning for a new downtown school to break ground in 2005. The downtown school includes a partnership with the City for a Neighborhood Resource Center. This is all the product of two successful referendums, first an instructional support levy and then a $100 million local option sales tax. March 3,2005 Page 8 of 24 A Laborshed Survey commissioned by the Greater Dubuque Development Corporation shows that in just the last two years the laborshed has doubled in size, with people commuting even greater distances to work in Dubuque. These people not only come here to work, but they come here for entertainment and to shop. Major retailers like Kohl's, Best Buy and Borders have chosen to locate in Dubuque. The City has received international, national, state-wide and local recognition for what has been accomplished in the recent past. In Iowa, when compared to the other large cities, Dubuque is #1 in most financial benchmarking categories. The City of Dubuque uses the lowest percentage of its available debt margin (21%). The City of Dubuque has the 2nd highest bond rating of the comparable cities; in fact, the City's bond rating was upgraded in 2003. In Fiscal Year 2006, the City of Dubuque will have the lowest property tax rate of comparable cities, at $9.6991 per thousand. Just as important in this case is the trend line. Since Fiscal Year 1994, the City portion of the property tax rate has gone down from $12.61 to $9.6991 in Fiscal Year 2006, while Ames, the city which previously had the lowest property tax rate, is trending up. With the City-wide property value reassessment going on-line in Fiscal Year 2006, to keep the average homeowner at no increase in property taxes, the City of Dubuque property tax rate will fall below $10 per thousand and be lower than Ames' property tax rate. In Fiscal Year 2006, Dubuque will have the lowest property tax rate of the nine largest cities. This will help to continue the City's competitiveness for economic development projects. This will also be done in conjunction with the new DRA lease payments and operational efficiencies, like privatization of Five Flags, which will allow the implementation of City Council priorities. In Fiscal Year 2006, the City of Dubuque will have the fourth lowest stormwater utility rate in the State at $1.79. The highest ranked city (Des Moines - $5.83) is 226% higher than Dubuque's rate and the average ($2.32) is 30% higher than Dubuque. Financing the cost of the $38,694,949 Drainage Basin Master Plan will take a combination of revenues from the Dubuque Racing Association and an increase in the monthly Stormwater Fee. The DRA funds and the Stormwater Fee revenues would be used to retire general obligation debt, a variance from previous funding plans. Debt is being used so this project can be completed in a reasonable time-frame, while the costs are spread over a long period of time. The City will also continue to pursue federal grants. The recommended Stormwater Fee to implement the program to protect over 1,150 Dubuque properties from stormwater flooding is to leave the current $1.29 per month fee in place until the end of Fiscal Year 2005. At the beginning of Fiscal Year 2006, July 1,2005, the monthly fee would increase to $1.79. This adjustment to $1.79 has been mentioned in the past as the impact of not receiving a back tax payment from the State of Iowa when the DRA lawsuit against the State was settled. At the beginning of March 3, 2005 Page 9 of 24 Fiscal Year 2007, July 1,2006, the monthly fee would rise to $2.00. The fee would then increase 25/ft a year until Fiscal Year 2013, when it would reach $3.50 a month, and continue at that rate until Fiscal Year 2032. These funding projections assume that approximately $35 million of DRA revenues will be dedicated to implementation of the plan and the City will receive federal financial assistance to relocate the storm sewer lines as part of the Julien Dubuque Bridge expansion project. Stormwater Utility Rate Comparison for Cities In lowa* Rank City 14 13 12 11 10 9 9 8 7 7 6 5 4 3 2 2 2 1 FY06 Rate Des Moines Ackley Carroll Cedar Rapids Garner Dewitt Davenport Marshalltown Iowa City Burlington Boone Sioux City Dubuque* Clear Lake Ames Bettendorf Marengo Mason City $5.83 $3.08 $3.00 $2.90 $2.63 $2.50 $2.50 $2.16 $2.00 $2.00 $1.95 $1.84 $1.79 $1.55 $1.50 $1.50 $1.50 $1.00 AVERAGE WITHOUT DUBUQUE $2.32 * There are three residential rates: 85% of the homes pay the $1.79 rate, smaller homes pay less and larger homes pay more. It is recommended for Fiscal Year 2006, that the City of Dubuque monthly solid waste (refuse) rate be raised to $8.70 from $8.51 in Fiscal Year 2005. The City of Dubuque would have the lowest monthly refuse rate of the comparable cities at $8.70. The highest-ranked city (Ames - $20.50) is 136% higher than Dubuque's rate, and the average ($13.27), is 53% higher than Dubuque. This City of Dubuque rate of $8.70 has been reduced from $9.50 in Fiscal Year 1994 as efficiencies like one-person crews have been implemented over the years through employee involvement teams. March 3, 2005 Page 10 of 24 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 Solid Waste Rate Comparison for Nine Largest Iowa Cities Rank City FY06 Monthly Rate Ames Cedar Rapids Sioux City Iowa City Waterloo Council Bluffs Des Moines Davenport Dubuque $20.50 $13.51 $13.13 $12.60 $12.30 $12.00 $11.75 $10.37 $8.70 $13.27 AVERAGE WITHOUT DUBUQUE It is recommended that for Fiscal Year 2006, the sanitary sewer rate rise to $14.43 from $13.68 in Fiscal Year 2005. The City of Dubuque would be tied as the second-lowest sanitary sewer rate of the comparable cities at $14.43 per month. The highest-ranked City (Iowa City - $31.82) is 121 % higher than Dubuque's rate and the average ($19.03) is 32% higher than Dubuque. This department has seen a reduction in staff and a multi- million dollar remodeling through employee involvement teams. The recommended budget includes a 5.5% sanitary sewer rate increase effective July 1,2005. A normal growth factor of 1 % has been anticipated in the Fiscal Year 2005 Water Pollution Control (WPC) fee revenue. The Water Pollution Control Plant has made every effort to operate efficiently with a reduction from 37 employees in Fiscal Year 1982 to 18 employees in Fiscal Year 2005. The average annual rate increase from Fiscal Year 1993 through Fiscal Year 2005 is 1.6%, far below the rate of inflation. However, the closing of the Smithfield Meatpacking Plant and the efficiencies being implemented by the plant's three largest industrial customers (Inland Protein, Swiss Valley Dairy and San Rouesslot) has reduced revenues, causing costs to be spread over a smaller revenue base. In Fiscal Year 1999, the City sewer revenue from the four major industrial customers was $1,100,107. In Fiscal Year 2006, the revenue projected from the remaining three large customers is $469,160, a 57% reduction. For Fiscal Year 2006, revenue from Swiss Valley Farms is showing a $25,000 reduction from Fiscal Year 2005 due to reduction and effluent clean up; Inland Protein is showing a $120,000 reduction from Fiscal Year 2005 due to the impact of Mad Cow Disease and government regulations on use of animal by-products for protein feed; and San Rouesslot is showing an $8,000 reduction due to their implementation of a new solids removal process. March 3, 2005 Page 11 of 24 Sanitary Sewer Rate Comparison for Nine Largest Iowa Cities Rank City FY 06 Sewer Rates (Based on 800 cubic feet/month) 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 2 1 Iowa City Des Moines Waterloo Council Bluffs Sioux City Ames Cedar Rapids Dubuque Davenport $31 .82 $22.22 $18.95 $17.20 $17.11 $16.78 $14.43 $14.43 $13.76 AVERAGE WITHOUT DUBUQUE $19.03 It is recommended that the water rate rise to $13.84 in Fiscal Year 2006 from $13.28 in Fiscal Year 2005. The City of Dubuque has the second-lowest water rate of comparable cities at $13.84 per month. The highest-ranked city (Iowa City - $30.34) would be 119% higher than Dubuque's rate and the average ($19.03) would be 39% higher than Dubuque. 6 5 4 3 2 1 Water Rate Comparison for Largest Iowa Cities with Water Softening Rank City FY 06 Water Rates (800 cubic feet/resident average) Iowa City Ames Council Bluffs Des Moines Dubuque Cedar Rapids $30.34 $18.42 $17.44 $16.22 (Effective April 1 ,2005) $13.84 $13.65 (Effective July 1,2005) AVERAGE WITHOUT DUBUQUE $18.97 This is all being accomplished while citizen satisfaction with service levels appears to be high and the City is growing and receiving recognition from many sources. March 3, 2005 Page 12 of 24 The City's ranking among the nine largest cities in the State of Iowa in important financial categories, based on the Fiscal Year 2006 recommendations, is as follows: ISSUE RANK Lowest Property Tax Rate Best Bond Rating Lowest Bonded Indebtedness Lowest Water Rate Lowest Sewer Rate Lowest Refuse Rate Lowest Stormwater Rate Fewest Government Employees (Federal, State, Local) Lowest Unemployment Rate #1 #2 #1 #2 #2 #1 #4 #1 #1 Good Times GettinQ Better In 2005, Dubuque County reached 53,500 people working here, with a 2000 census population count of 57,686 in the City. The last time that has been described as good times in Dubuque was the late 1970s, when Dubuque had a population of 62,374 and Dubuque County had 43,700 people working. Current times dwarf those numbers- with a lower population. Are these good times? Yes. But more importantly, these are good times and getting better. This is because of affirmative actions taken by the City to promote economic expansion and increase job opportunities. Assistance to Low Income Residents In addition to Dubuque's record of remaining fiscally responsible to our citizens by providing excellent services for the tax dollar, Dubuque is a community of compassion for those with limited means. In addition to reducing the property tax rate by almost one- third since the 1980s and maintaining some of the lowest utility and user fees compared to the nine largest communities in Iowa, the City Council continues to look for ways to minimize the financial impact of taxes and fees for low-income residents. The following are a number of programs in which the city provides a reduced or free service to those most in need: · For refuse removal, a half-rate base refuse fee is available to households where the head of the household is 65 or older and the household income is low enough to qualify for HUD Section 8 housing subsidies. In addition, the City Manager is empowered to forgive part or all of the solid waste collection base fee to any household applying for and demonstrating extreme financial hardship; · The stormwater utility fee is reduced by 50% based upon age and income or family size and income; March 3, 2005 Page 13 of 24 · Bus fees are reduced to $0.50 and $1.00 for fixed route rides and $1.00 to minibus riders; · The Water Department provides financial assistance to low- and moderate- income residents who are required to replace old service lines in the street right- of-way due to street reconstruction projects and failure to their service lines. · The Engineering Department has a number of programs including a sidewalk assistance program based upon income level and the number of persons in the owner-occupied residence. The benefit can be from 75% for contractor- performed repairs or 100% of construction cost for owner-performed repairs. A city policy requires that all homes be connected to the sanitary sewer system. To assist with this connection, the city limits the assessment amount that property owners have to pay for this connection to 15% of the value of the home. They also have a street assessment assistance program, a sanitary sewer assessment assistance program, a sanitary sewer lateral assessment assistance program and a sanitary sewer lateral assistance program (Infiltration and Inflow) program. In each of these programs, the City can pay from 20% to 100% of a street assessment for an eligible owner-occupied residence. · The Dubuque Fire Department Ambulance Service billing procedure waives the co-pay for Medicare-approved Ambulance Service for qualifying citizens. · The Planning Services Department may waive zoning and subdivision fees related to an affordable owner-occupied housing development when the developer has entered into a development agreement with the City. In addition, they have a Historic Preservation Homeowner Grant Program for persons who are income-qualified by the Housing and Community Development Department as low- to moderate-income households. The program provides a $2,000 to $5,000 grant per structure for exterior improvements. · The Housing and Community Development Department offers a number of programs including scholarships and stipends for low-income Dubuque citizens wishing to take any of our professional lead certification programs. Other programs include Operation Paint Brush where funding is provided at no charge for all exterior painting to help maintain and protect housing stock, Operation Upkeep provides grants and loans to improve the exterior appearance and conditions of their homes, Section 8 First-time Homebuyer Program permits eligible participants in the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program the option of purchasing a home with their Section 8 assistance rather than renting, PATH (Pathways Affordable To Homeownership) provides forgivable loans for home purchase and rehabilitation and the Accessibility Rehabilitation Program provides forgivable loans to owners of rental properties for tenants needing unit modifications to accommodate physical disabilities. These are just a sampling of the many programs offered through the Housing and Community Development Department that reduce costs to low-income residents and help them realize the dream of affordable homeownership. In addition to these very functional-type services, the city also offers affordable recreational opportunities and choices. The Recreation Division offers low-income programs such as free day camp at Four Mounds where youth can experience team- March 3, 2005 Page 14 of 24 building and the outdoors through hiking, canoeing and the ropes course. Also offered throughout the city are free "Playtime for Tots" Preschool sessions, free after-school programs at Audubon and Prescott School, free summer playground programs at 17 locations, half-price swim passes for qualifying individuals and families, reduced fees for Adult Summer Basketball League, scholarships for music courses and many youth recreation programs offered year-round. The Park Division offers a discounted $5 season pass into Eagle Point Park for qualifying residents. The Transit Division continues to offer "Free Way to Fun City" (free bus service) to anyone registered for a Leisure Service or Library activity. Because of these programs, the City is able to provide choices and services at even more affordable rates for those most in need based upon their income. Fiscal Year 2006 Budaet Initiatives This Fiscal Year 2006 budget recommendation is based on the City Council Vision, Goals, Priorities and Management Agenda established in September 2004. A Dubuque 2020 vision statement was reaffirmed: Dubuque is a city of history, beauty, opportunities and excitement: Masterpiece on the Mississippi. The vision statement was approved to include: "The City of Dubuque is a growing city with a strong, balanced economy and connections to the world. The Dubuque community takes pride in our history and heritage and has actively preserved our picturesque river and community. Dubuque citizens have choices of quality livable neighborhoods and fun things to do; and are engaged in the community. Dubuque city government is financially sound and providing services with citizens getting value for their tax dollars." The City Council adopted five-year goals for the community: · Improved Connectivity: Transportation and Telecommunications . Planned and Managed Growth · Diverse, Strong Dubuque Economy · Riverfront Development . Partnering for a Better Dubuque The City Council adopted a Policy Agenda 2004-2006 and developed 12 priority issues. These issues were divided into top and high priority: March 3, 2005 Page 15 of 24 Top Priority . Southwest Arterial - Funding for the arterial is once again the NO.1 transportation priority for the City of Dubuque, Dubuque County, DMA TS, the Dubuque Area Chamber of Commerce and Greater Dubuque Development Corp. . Opportunitylowa - This initiative involves a feasibility study about the creation of a communication utility for the City of Dubuque. . Stormwater: Bee Branch Creek Restoration . Street Improvement Programs - Continue to devote significant funding to resurface and reconstruct streets within the City. . Arts Policy and Funding - Finalize a policy decision. High Priority · East-West Corridor Study - This study would examine the east-west transportation links within the city. . Air Service and Enplanement Strategy . National Pollution Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) . Annexation Study and Policy . Newly Annexed Areas: Plan, Zoning, Services . Property Maintenance Cases . Water & Sewer Services to New Developments Also established was the Management Agenda for 2004-2006. These 12 issues represent short-term projects for the City Manager and City of Dubuque staff: . Mediacom Franchise Agreement . Zoning Ordinance: Update . Adams Company Relocation Completion . Collective Bargaining Negotiations . Incident Tracking System · Healthcare Cost Containment Strategy and Action . Federal Strategy · Dubuque Industrial Center West, Phase III · Gaming Agreement: Protect City's interests . Star Brewery Completion . Waterworks Park/Pyatigorsk Park . State Strategy Increased revenues to the City, especially the new revenues from the Dubuque Racing Association Lease and the expansion at Dubuque Greyhound Park and Casino, will allow the City to fund most of the improvement packages requested for Fiscal Year 2006, subject to the approval of the City Council. Added to the existing $35,000 allocated to Cultural Affairs, is a $200,000 recurring allocation. March 3, 2005 Page 16 of 24 Change one part-time Assistant Planner position in the Planning Department to a full-time Assistant Planner to better serve the needs of the Historic Preservation Commission. Change one part-time Emergency Communication Center dispatcher to full-time for better shift coverage. Part-time intern position in the City Clerk's Office to assist with scanning City Council documents. A full-time Geographic Information System (GIS) Coordinator to better utilize the City's multi-million dollar investment in the GIS system. Creation of a Project Manager position in the Engineering Department to help manage major City construction projects. Change one part-time Accountant in the Finance Department to a full-time financial analyst to assist with additional financial reporting requirements, track City leases, grant accounting and assist the Budget Director in the City Manager's Office with the annual budget preparation. In the Human Rights Department, replace the part-time services of the City Solicitor and the services of a legal intern with the full-time services of a Human Relations Specialist to assist with investigations and handling complaints, freeing up some time for the Human Rights Director to do public education. In the Legal Department, increase the part-time City Solicitor to full-time and add the part-time services of a Secretary. At the Library, add a part-time Library Assistant in Circulation Services, increase the hours for Library Assistants in Adult Services, add a part-time Library Aide in the Children's area, and an intern to assist the Office Manager position. Creation of a full-time Records Room Supervisor for the Police Department and a part-time Business Education student to work in records. I was not able to recommend $50,000 in additional funding, over and above the $43,966 the City currently provides for Dubuque Main Street, Ltd., to hire an additional employee to implement the Downtown Master Plan. Currently Dubuque Main Street, Ltd. has three full-time employees equaling over 6,000 work hours a year. The Downtown Master Plan is at the heart of their mission, therefore, the Plan just provides a clearer road map for the Main Street, Ltd. Board and their staff on doing what they are already trying to accomplish. However, if the businesses in the Main Street District believe additional staffing is needed to accomplish the mission of the organization, a mechanism for those businesses in the District to contribute to funding that position could be developed. March 3, 2005 Page 17 of 24 Property owners can agree to tax themselves through a property tax surcharge called a Self-Supporting Municipal Improvement District (SMID). If that was implemented, the City could agree to contribute based on the value of City-owned property in the District. In the area of employee training, a Customer Service Training program ($9,000) and a Diversity Training program ($7,500) is recommended. A one-time Broad-Based Marketing plan ($23,300) is recommended to increase awareness of diversity issues in the community. Previous expenditures that were cut in the Library budget are recommended for restoration, including $35,939 in adult materials and $2,547 for adult programs. In the area of technology, included is wireless Internet access for Library patrons ($1,800), Internet registration software ($3,000) at Leisure Services and a point of sale system at Bunker Hill Golf Course. To enhance the Public Information function of the City, the reinstatement of the quarterly City Focus newsletter, with one edition being an annual report, is recommended. There is a continued emphasis on the Street Program, with a planned Fiscal Year 2006 expenditure of $9,178,415. This increases the average annual expenditure from the Fiscal Year 2005 calculation of $7,274,623 to the Fiscal Year 2006 calculation of $7,520,043. This far exceeds the 1990-1994 historic annual average of $2,100,000. Capital funds are recommended to expand Dubuque Industrial West, continue work at the Southwest Arterial, provide utility service to annexed areas, implement the Drainage Basin Master Plan and complete the projects required under the Vision Iowa grant. The City has strengthened its position on property maintenance, as evidenced by City Council action last year to force maintenance of the vacant property on Burch Street. The City also has a long history of participating in Neighborhood Reinvestment with the DREAMS Program, where vacant homes were acquired, rehabilitated and sold to low income residents. The Housing and Community Development Department administers a number of state- and federally-funded programs to encourage housing investment, city-wide. Eligibility for all programs is tied to income limits. These include the First Time Homebuyer Program, offering $5,000 low- or no-interest down payment loans to low- and moderate- income buyers. Rehabilitation assistance programs are also available, offering up to $25,000 to homeowners, as 3% interest, 20-year loans for a variety of home improvement activities. March 3, 2005 Page 18 of 24 The Department recently received another Federal Home Loan Bank award, of $100,000, to provide $4,000 down payment grants to lowest-income (below 60%) first- time homebuyers. The Lead Paint Hazard Reduction Program offered through the Housing Department offers $6,000/unit grants to homeowners and landlords to remove lead paint from their properties. CDBG and HOME Program funds are utilized for rehabilitation assistance to landlords, with up to $20,000/unit available as 3%, 20-year loans. Beginning in 2003, a program of concentrated assistance to the "Five Points" area was initiated, using a combination of HOME, CDBG, HUD Special Purpose Grant and Lead Program funds totaling approximately $500,000. A square-block area bounded by 20th and 21 st Streets, Elm Street and Washington Street was selected for an intensive rehabilitation effort. There is a concern that the Washington/Five Points neighborhood area is showing indications of a decline in appearance and maintenance. This is substantiated by depressed property assessed valuations and high vacancy rates. Staff has developed a preliminary proposal for a program of concentrated activities to encourage more owner investment and housing rehabilitation in the downtown. In particular, the Washington Street Neighborhood is identified as the logical focus of this effort. The proposed program of $100,000 per year will offer low-interest down payment loans to households at 80% t01 00% of median income, as an incentive to purchase and improve homeowner properties in sections of Census Tracts 1 and 5. Fiscal Year 2006 will initiate a Washington Neighborhood revitalization strategy. This will help to facilitate a mixed income neighborhood with a greater percentage of owner-occupied homes. Community Issues Retail We are all excited about the addition of Best Buy, Borders, Kohl's and other retail establishments in Dubuque, but the growth in retail sales for 2004 was an anemic 3.5%, or less than % of 1 % after adjusting for inflation. Our economy has never been better, so it is not that these retail dollars are not being spent. It is fair to conclude that these retail dollars are just being spent somewhere else, like Coralville, Davenport and Madison. Pull factor is an indicator of whether people are coming to Dubuque to shop or whether Dubuquers are going elsewhere to shop. If the number is over 1.00, people are traveling to Dubuque to shop, if the number is less than 1.00, Dubuquers are traveling elsewhere to shop. The pull factor March 3, 2005 Page 19 of 24 for Dubuque County in 2004 is 1.12, which at face value is good news. However, the pull factor for Dubuque in 2000 was 1.10, so there has been almost no increase. The City should be working to create new shopping opportunities to increase the pull factor. Comparing Dubuque County with other urban counties in the State of Iowa shows that Dubuque has a problem that needs to be addressed. Count Pull Factor 1.57 1.46 1.39 1.27 1.26 1.15 1.14 1.14 1.12 0.92 0.79 1.21 Dubuque County has the third lowest pull factor. The County with the highest pull factor (Des Moines) at 1.57 is 40% higher than Dubuque and the average of these other cities (1.21) is 8% higher than Dubuque County. The State of Iowa breaks up retail sales into nine categories. The largest category is general merchandise (19% of all retail sales in Dubuque). Dubuque actually saw a 2.8% decrease in general merchandise sales in constant dollars (dollars adjusted for inflation) when comparing 2004 with 2003. Another category, wholesale items (8% of all retail sales in Dubuque) was down a whopping 7.9% in constant dollars. Looking at "constant dollars," the County has had basically no growth in retail sales in 24 years. Retail sales in Dubuque County in 1980 were $991,000,000. Retail Sales in Dubuque County in 2004 were $993,000,000. In fact, since 2000, there has actually been a decrease in retail sales in constant dollars from $994,000,000 down to $993,000,000. Putting together these dismal retail sales numbers, vacant storefronts downtown and the lack of interest in development in the Port of Dubuque, has led to a discussion with Dubuque Initiatives about a partnership to encourage retail development downtown, in the Port of Dubuque, and across the City. The ultimate goal of this initiative is to help local retailers grow, attract new retailers, and work with the local real estate and development community to create opportunities to expand retail sales in Dubuque. March 3, 2005 Page 20 of 24 Retail businesses create sales tax for the state, county, city and Dubuque Community School District. Commercial properties also pay property tax at 100% of assessed value, which helps the county, city, community college and schools. Shopping is the #1 entertainment choice nationally and adds to the quality of life in a community, helping with a local critical need, workforce development. I am recommending that the City budget $35,000 towards this partnership with Dubuque Initiatives, who would be contributing $70,000. Population While we certainly believe it to be otherwise, the latest estimates from the U.S. Census Bureau say Dubuque has lost population since the 2000 census. The Census Bureau estimates the City has lost 491 people, or almost 1 % of the population. Even optimistic estimates from DMATS would show Dubuque adding only about 3,800 people. Population in Dubuque since 1950 1950 1960 1970 1980 1990 2000 July 1, 2003 Census Estimate 49,671 56,606 62,309 62,374 57,538 57,686 57,204 Enplanements While there are many bright spots at the airport, especially the addition of a fourth flight by American Airlines, the enplanement numbers are not encouraging. Enplanements in 2004 were 39,002. Enplanements in 2000 were 58,326, 49.5% higher than 2004. In this interim the September 11,2001, terrorist attack on the East Coast occurred and United Airlines and Northwest Airlines discontinued service at the airport. On a positive note, 2004 was the first year of an increase in enplanements (1.04%) after three consecutive years of declines. A $20,000 increase in City funds for marketing and a major commitment to a new airport terminal are recommended for the Airport, with additional resources for local funds yet to be identified. Workforce Dubuque's business community has never been stronger. Employment has risen dramatically over the last 20 years-from 39,700 employed workers in 1984 to a current record level of 53,500. During the past year, the majority of our City's industries have either maintained payrolls or added jobs-a trend that many of them expect to continue. However, indicators show that although Dubuque's workforce has kept pace with two decades of growth, future expansion could hit a wall. Workforce availability is rapidly becoming the primary concern of our City's major employers. Dubuque's unemployment March 3, 2005 Page 21 of 24 rate is the lowest in the State of Iowa. The 2004 Laborshed Analysis discovered that to meet the needs of this expanding industry, more employees are driving longer distances to fill positions. In addition to a labor deficit resulting from growth, Dubuque's high concentration of an aging population will exacerbate the problem over the next few years. Dubuque has the highest percentage of persons age 65 and older in the State of Iowa. As these employees retire, there must be someone to take their place. Dubuque also has the lowest percentage of population under the age of 18 than any other metro in Iowa. This is not a situation unique to Dubuque-in fact, the entire state faces the same issues. Iowa itself has one of the nation's oldest populations and ranks last in population growth over the last 100 years. Several statewide initiatives have been started to reverse this trend. But to meet the needs of our local business community, Dubuque must find its own method of retaining and recruiting talent. We must demonstrate available opportunity through a strategy supported by the entire community to assure our employers that they will continue to have access to the high-quality workforce they have come to expect. Southwest Arterial The completion of Iowa 32 with the construction of the Southwest Arterial is imperative to the future of Dubuque. This has been selected as the #1 transportation priority for the City of Dubuque, the Dubuque Area Chamber of Commerce, the Greater Dubuque Development Corporation, Dubuque County and the Dubuque Metropolitan Area Transportation Study. Much hard work needs to be done to get the necessary federal and state funding commitments. Broadband Internet Access Broadband, or high-speed Internet access, is essential for business and is quickly becoming essential at home as well. New technologies, new players in telecommunications services, the bundling of services, the aggregation of demand, cost, and the measuring of constituent needs are just a few of the issues at the forefront of the broadband debate. Community Marketina As I mentioned in the introduction, this is a watershed year, combining the wonderful community we live in with all the recent successes and the creation of five 4-lane connections to the outside world. One thing that we all should be thinking of is marketing The Masterpiece on the Mississippi to others, not for the purpose of tourism, but to brand an image in peoples' minds to spur economic development. March 3, 2005 Page 22 of 24 Other Metropolitan Areas in Iowa Dubuque has lower taxes, lower fees and less debt, while having low unemployment and a growing award-winning economy. Dubuque has significant assets to build on, and some might say it has things other communities do not have, like gaming, but other towns have significant assets that Dubuque does not have. Des Moines is the State Capitol, is on Interstate 80 and Interstate 35. Ames has Iowa State University and is on Interstate 35. Council Bluffs is on Interstate 80, has Omaha in their backyard and has gaming. Iowa City has the University of Iowa, University of Iowa Hospital and is on Interstate 80. Waterloo/Cedar Falls has the University of Northern Iowa, is on the Avenue of the Saints and Highway 20. Davenport is part of the Quad Cities, is on Interstate 80 and Interstate 74 and has gaming. Cedar Rapids has Rockwell Collins, is on the Avenue of the Saints, is closely connected to Interstate 80, and is between the University of Iowa and the University of Northern Iowa. One other very important factor that insulates the economies of these other communities is their percentage of government employees (federal, state and local government employees) in their workforce. Normally, recessions have much less of an impact on communities with a high percentage of government employees. The Dubuque area has the lowest percentage of government employees of any metropolitan areas in the state and is less than half of the state average, according to the June 2003 Workforce Development statistics March 3, 2005 Page 23 of 24 Government Employees Total Employees % of Government Story County (Ames) 18,200 43,590 42% Iowa City Area 26,800 74,100 36% Waterloo-Cedar Falls 10,700 71,900 15% Pottawattamie County 5,350 35,490 15% (Council Bluffs) Clinton County (Clinton) 2,940 22,750 13% Cerro Gordo County 3,490 27,750 13% (Mason City) Des Moines Area 37,000 291,000 13% Sioux City Area 7,700 64,700 12% Cedar Rapids Area 12,700 119,000 11% Dubuque area 4,200 50,700 8% State of Iowa 245,200 1,446,300 17% Conclusion Dubuque is a wonderful place with tremendous potential. I know that there are many reasons for Dubuque's success, but the most important ones involve the caring and hard-working citizens of Dubuque and you, exercising leadership, being innovative and developing partnerships. The president of a successful company was asked what it took to get to the top. "The same thing it took to get started," he replied. "A sense of urgency about getting things done." The City Council seems to share this sense of urgency, leading to many successes and certainly creating the opposite situation described in the 1983 Chamber publication which said, "Dubuque's plight is becoming desperate." Again, this was a complex and challenging budget and it required the assistance of many City of Dubuque staff members. I am especially proud of the work that was done this year, including input from Department Managers and City Commissions. I would like to thank Budget Director Dawn Lang, along with Office Manager Juanita Hilkin and Secretary Kevin Firnstahl for putting together the budget, with the assistance of Assistant City Manager Cindy Steinhauser, Intern Jenny Griffin, and former Administrative Services Manager Pauline Joyce. Corporation Counsel Barry Lindahl and City Clerk Jeanne Schneider continue to provide their expertise and assistance throughout the budget process. I would like to say how much I appreciate the courageous and entrepreneurial leadership of the Mayor and City Council. I respectfully submit this budget for consideration and deliberation. While I know that all needs and requests were not met, March 3, 2005 Page 24 of 24 I believe the budget as presented keeps the community moving forward in a fiscally responsible manner. ! / / /ILY {(il//]L ()~ Michael C. Van Milligen MCVM/jh Total Budget Operating Budget Capital Budget City Tax Asking City Tax Rate Taxable Valuation TIF Increment Valuation Tax Rate Change CITY OF DUBUQUE FISCAL YEAR 2006 RECOMMENDED BUDGET FACT SHEET $ 115,739,646 $ 72,239,167 $ 43,500,479 $ 16,192,215 $9.6991 per $1,000 $1,669,454,600 $114,635,711 $-.3729 20.87% more than FY 2005 9.15% more than FY 2005 *47.10% more than FY 2005 1.10% less than FY 2005 3.70% less than FY 2005 2.79% more than FY 2005 0.22% more than FY 2005 **0.86% less than FY 2005 *FY 2005 was 20.83% less than FY 2004. **FY 2005 had a rate change of -.2010 from FY 2004 Impact on Property Owners (City Taxes Only) Residential = 0% Commercial = - 5.60% Industrial = + 14.98% Recommended Fee Adiustments Sewer Water Stormwater Engineering Operations & Maintenance Parking Recreation 5.5% rate increase effective July 1, 2005 4% rate increase effective July 1,2005 Stormwater monthly utility rate increases to $1.79 from $1.29 per month per Standard Family Unit (SFU) equivalent effective July 1, 2005. The minimum charge for excavation permits will increase from $15.00 to $50.00 for more accurate cost recovery. City Operations & Maintenance Department pavement replacements cost per square foot (sJ.) increase would be from $4.75 to $6.55 (for asphalt); $5.75 to $8.55 (for asphalt over concrete), and $6.25 to $8.00 (for concrete replacements), respectively, which is just a recovery of costs. a) 5th Street Ramp monthly rate from $38.00 to $40.00, $2 increase. b) Lot 1 (9th and Central) monthly rate from $25.00 to $27.00, $2 increase. c) Lot 2 (9th and Bluff) monthly rate from $25.00 to $27.00, $2 increase. c) Lot 10 (5th and Main) monthly rate from $35.00 to $37.00, $2 increase. Golf fee increases proposed in the Golf Maintenance activity are: League rate (+$.50); Individual passes (+$10.00); Couples and family passes (+$15.00). Golf fee increases proposed in the Golf Operations activity are: 18-hole cart rental (+$1.00 to a fee of $23.00); 9-hole cart rental (+$1.00 to a FY 2006 Recommended Budget Fact Sheet C:\123DATA\Bud06\Citizens Guide\06 Factsheet.doc.rtf Page 2 fee of $14.50). Housing Fee increases proposed in the Adult Athletics activity are: +$15 per team for basketball and softball and +$5 per team for volleyball. Inspection fees will increase $.75 from $9.25 per unit to $10.00. Refuse Monthly rate from $8.51 to $8.70, effective July 1, 2005 REFUSE: Pay As You Throw extra garbage pickup tags from $1.15 to $1.20; to $2.00; and subscription for a 2nd oversized can from $5.50 to $7.00 LARGE ITEM REFUSE: FY 2006 budget proposes lowering the minimum fee from $8.00 to $6.00, but lowers the minimum quantity from two hopperfuls to one hopperful; Extra hopperfuls would go from $2.00 to $4.00; First appliance pickup from $10.00 to $12.50; additional appliance pickup from $9.00 to $12.50; and a new fee would be added for collections that are required to be made in off-route day collection areas for $10.00. YARD WASTE: Yard waste annual decals from $25.00 to $26.00; Yard waste brush-ties from $1.05 to $1.20; and Yard waste single-use stickers from $1.05 to $1.20. This Solid Waste Right Of Way (ROW) Violation Enforcement would enable solid waste crews to red tag, and upon follow-up, to collect non- compliant solid waste containers and stockpiled refuse at the City's Right Of Way. This initiative would implement timely corrective action and collect compensatory revenue from chronic offenders, while improving neighborhood sanitation and aesthetics. It is a recommendation from the inter-departmental Garbage Enforcement Taskforce and is endorsed by the Solid Waste Operations Review Team. Both groups recommend implementation April 3, 2005, with the annual start of yard waste collection service. For collection of the first offense, after allowing six days for abatement, the following charges would apply: . An Extra Garbage Pickup Tag double fee (FY05: $2.30) for each 40-pound equivalent bag, qualified item, or rigid container of solid waste collected; . An $8.00 fee for each bulky or over 40-pound item collected; . A $20.00 fee for each small uncontained, loose pile; . A $20.00 fee for each appliance collected. For collection of the second offense, after allowing four days for abatement, the following charges would apply: . A $10.00 administration fee, plus; . An Extra Garbage Pickup Tag triple fee (FY05: $3.45) for each 40-pound equivalent bag, qualified item, or rigid container of solid waste collected; . A $16.00 fee for each bulky or over 40-pound item collected; FY 2006 Recommended Budget Fact Sheet C:\123DA T A\Bud06\Citizens Guide\06 Factsheet.doc.rtf Page 3 . A $30.00 fee for each small uncontained, loose pile collected; . A $30.00 fee for each appliance collected. For collection of the third and subsequent offences, there would be immediate abatement and the following charges would apply: . A $10.00 administration fee, plus; . An Extra Garbage Pickup Tag quadruple fee (FY05: $4.60) for each 40-pound equivalent bag, qualified item, or rigid container of solid waste collected; . A $24.00 fee for each bulky or over 40-pound item collected; . A $40.00 fee for each small uncontained, loose pile; . A $40.00 fee for each appliance collected. Positions Full-Time ChanQes Full-Time Complement All Funds - 3.05 518.00 C:\123DATA\Bud06\Citizens Guide\06 Factsheet.doc.rtf FISCAL YEAR 2006 RECOMMENDED BUDGET SUMMARY OF RECOMMENDED DECISION PACKAGES Their Were 120 improvement level decision packages requested for fiscal Year 2006 (compared to 84 in Fiscal Year 2005). Of the 120 decision packages, 8 were not recommended. Out of the 112 recommended: ~ Some either totally or partially represent the use of recurring General Fund balances totaling $686,900 (net revenue). ~ Some either totally or partially represent the use of non-recurring General Fund balances totaling $524,020 (net revenue). ~ The remaining are funded by non-property tax funds, including Road Use Tax, CDBG, UDAG, Dubuque Industrial Center West TIF, Lead Fund, Section 8, Cable TV, and Enterprise Funds totaling $231,845. Recurring decision packages total $107,319 and non-recu rring total $124,526. z o i= <( o z w ~~ -0 00 <(w D..cr:: <(.... Ow ....C) mo w:::) Om ~~ 00 ....~ :::)an ....0 <(0 ....N ma:: <( w >- ...I <( o m u: Q) > ;;::: "C Q) Q) o x Q) ... o c >- (\'J E >- .... 'c C ::J ~ E... E .... o 0 o~ (\'J '0 - Q) ~5 .c c ~:c .... ~ .~ ::~ (\'J Q) 50. U) e 20.. J!:! Q) ::J- .g. ~ ... x U) (\'J c;;-.... SO n ~ Q)- (f)~ -=-'0 >< :x ~ en :e :x <( en -<( c- o C'lI :;; ::J :Eu Ci)<( c Q) O.c. 0:: (\'J 0 ~... o c Q) ~ .c. Q) 1-0. ~ .5 "lI' o o NeD ftO '1'"'0 ~N ~it c: C'lI ..., .... .c Q) "C ~ o ... ::J ... (\'J ... U) Q) .c. ... .... Q) "C C ::J U) ~ C "C Q) ... .c Q) "C .5 U) (\'J "C Q) "C ::J "0 .5 ! (\'J ~ o Q) .c. ... '0 U) c o :;; (\'J .2> :c o e! Q) c Q) (!) >- c o C") o o Nan ftO '1'"'0 ~N ~it c: C'lI ..., w :::) ...I ~ c o g W 0. f/) E mcQ) w 0 x m:;;w m 0."C ~~ffi I-x....J cr::w(ij w -U) :; D..C=: oe!a cr:: 2 'C D..Q)O) ...1><( US ~ ~ ,., Q) Q) 14o....J....J N co C") cD T"" N ai co co N w- C") ~ 1.0 OJ r--. 1.0- co 1.0 N w- ,1g o ... .c ::J (f) co T"" T"" OJ r--. 'O;f" OJ r--. r--. 1.0- r--. r--. N w- N co 1.0 co o T"" OJ T"" m N co o_ N OJ ..... ~ r--. v OJ r--. 'O;f" co_ N w- w :::) ...I ~ o w m m w m m <( m w i= ::i i= :::) ~ cr:: W D.. o cr:: D.. W ...I m ~ ...I ~ o .... ~ C3 <( D.. <( o .... m W o eD o o N o C") CI>> c: ::J ..., an o o N o C") CI>> c: ::J ..., 'O;f" N m OJ OJ r--. OJ C") T"" w- OJ m C") N m C") N C") T"" w- .... m w o ~ o .... :::) .... ~ m 8 C") v- ..... r--. OJ N OJ ..... co 'O;f" r--. o o T"" ..... w- o o o 1.0 OJ r--. a.ri N OJ m C") r--. o co cD o ..... w- .... .c Q) o d (!) 0) c :0 c ,1g ~ ::J o U) U) Q) ....J ~ C3 <( D.. ~ .... m w o ~ o .... :::) .... ~ m Preoared bv City Manaoer's Office; Address: City Hall. 50 W. 13th Street; Teleohone: 589-4110 RESOLUTION NO. 89-05 ADOPTING THE CITY OF DUBUQUE FISCAL YEAR 2006 ANNUAL BUDGET NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DUBUQUE, IOWA: Section 1. That the annual budget for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2006, as set forth in the Adoption of Budget and Certification of Taxes and supporting state budget forms showing the revenue estimates and appropriation expenditures and allocations to programs and activities for said fiscal year, as amended, is adopted. Section 2. The City Clerk is directed to make the filings required by law. Passed, approved and adopted this 8th day of March, 2005. Terrance M. Duggan, Mayor Attest: Jeanne F. Schneider, City Clerk -" Form 635_1 [)gpartrrJefi: of Manogemert 31-288 Adoption of Budget and Certification of City Taxes FISCAL YEAR BEGINNING JULY 1, 2005 - ENDING JUNE 30, 2006 The City of: DUBUQUE County Name: OUBUQUE Date Budget Adopted: 03108/05 (o.tfJ}x](/)lJl/xx N. . meeting of the CIty councU. held aft.. the public hearing 1$ required by law, as specified above, the proposed budget was adopted IS summariz8d and attached hereto, and tax levies, as itemiZed below. were appr...d for..t_ property oftlis cay. There is .ttached.long Tann Debt _WIe Fonn 703 forlhe _ _ needs, Wany. Non-Voted Other Permissible levies 0.67500 Contract for use of Bridge 0.95000 Opr & Maint publicly owned Transit Ant Nee Rent, Ins. Maint of Civic Center 0.13500 Opr & Maint of City owned Civic Center 0.06750 Planning a Sanitary Disposal Project 0.27000 Aviation Authority (under sec.33OA.15) Ant Nee Joint city-county building lease 0.06750 levee Impr. fund in special charter city Ant Nee liability, property & self insurance costs Ant Nee Su rt of a Local Eme! .M mt.Comm. Voted Other Permissible levies 0.13500 InstrumentaWocal Music Groups 0.61000 Memorial Building 0.13500 Symphony Orchestra 0.27000 Cultural & Scientific Facilities As Voted County Bridge 1.35000 Missi or Missouri River Bridge Const. 0.03375 Aid to a Transit Company 0.20500 Maintain Institution received by gift/devise 1.00000 City Emergency Medical District 0.27000 Support Public Library 1.50000 Unified Law Enforcement Total General Fund R ular Levies 3.00375 Ag Land Total General Fund Tax Levies Special Revenue levies 0.27000 Emergency (if general fund at levy limit) Police & Fire Retirement FICA & IPERs (If general fund at levy limit) Other Employee Benefits TOIBI Employee Benefit Levies (211,30,31) Sub Total Sial Revenue Levies 28+32 Valuation As Req With Gas & Elee Without Gas & Elec SSMID 1 IAl 16) 34 SSMID 2 (AI (8) 3S SSMID 3 IAl 16) 36 SSMID 4 (A) (8) 35 SSMID 5 (A) (8) 36 SSMID 6 IAl 16) 37 TolBl SSMID (34 thrU 37) 36 Total Sial Revenue Levies 33+38 38 Ant _ Debt Service Levy 76.10(6) 40 0.67500 Capital Projects (Capitallmprov. Reserve: 41 Total Property Taxes (27+39+40+41) 42 16,200,141 42 15,500,377 COUNTY AUDITOR - I certify the budget is in compliance with ALL the following: Budgets submitted that DO NOT meet the following criteria are not legal documents and will be retumed to the city for correction. County Auditor Date Stamp Regular DeST SERVICE Ag Land 2. January 1, 2004 Property Valuations With Gas & Electric ..~~C!.u.!~.~_~.5.~<:ctric:......._... 1,669.454,600 2b 1,597,308,139 1,784,090,311 3b 1,711,943,850 2,638,678 4b 2.638,678 TAXES LEVIED Code Dollar (384) 12(8) 12(10) 12(11) 12(12) 12(13) 12(14) 12(15) 12(16) 12(18) 12(22) (:184) 12(1) 12(2) 12(3) 12(4) 12(5) 12(6) 12(9) 12(17) 12(19) 12(21) 28E.22 384.1 26+26 384.8 384.6 Aml Nee Aml Nee AmI Nee Last Offtcial Census 57,686 3a 4a 386 384.4 384.7 (A) Request with IB) Property Taxes Ie) 0 0 679 830 0.42561 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 351 408 0.22000 0 0 15 0 0 16 0 0 17 0 0 16 0 0 19 0 0 20 0 0 21 0 0 22 0 0 483 0 0 23 0 0 24 0 0 2S 14,600,399 13,969,434 26 7,926 7,926 27 14,608,325 13,977,360 26 29 30 31 32 33 o o 9.69910 72 1) The preecribed NOla of PIlbIc Heamg BudIlOl e_e IFonn 631.1) was lawMy ~ed, or posted hpplicable, .nd notarized, filed proofwa. OYidenced. 2) Budget hearing notice$~ pWished or posted not less than 10 daY$, nor more than 20 d8Y$, prior to the budget hearing. 3) ~ property taxes do not exceed \>Whiled or posted .......... 4) Adopted expenditl,n. do not exceed publshed or posted amotI1ts in each of the nI1e program areas, Of h1 total. (CanyAudIof) . LORAS COLLEGE 1450 Alta Vista I P.O. Box 178 I Dubuque, IA 52004-0178 I (563) 588-7100 I www.1oras.edu March 8, 2005 Mayor Terry Duggan Dubuque City Council City Hall Dubuque, IA 52001 Dear Mayor Duggan and Members of the City Council: First allow me to apologize for not being at tonight's City Council meeting in person. This evening I am presenting the film Medium Cool as part of the Loras College Classic Film Educational Series. The purpose of the series is to increase the exposure of Dubuque citizens to a greater variety of arts and cultural offerings. That likewise was the goal of the City Council when it approved the formation of the Dubuque Arts and Cultural Affairs Advisory Commission. I thank the council once again for making the Commission possible and appointing me to its membership. The Commission's charge is one all members take very seriously, as we have all dedicated ourselves individually to strengthen the role of the arts in Dubuque. Together we can make an even greater impact with the help of the City Council. Thus I urge the Mayor and members of the City Council to approve the $235,000 in the budget for arts and culture. The City of Dubuque is making tremendous strides in developing itself into a unique destination in the Midwest. Our Cultural Corridor and increased arts and culture programming can only enhance the lives of those who live here and truly make Dubuque a place where people of all ages will want to live. Dubuque has only begun to achieve its goal of becoming a "Masterpiece on the Mississippi." I applaud the Mayor and City Council for taking this step and encourage them to keep moving forward with its continued support for the Commission. Sin;?eJ /!P( 12 Jj/( Paul R. Kohl . Associate Professor of Communication and Fine Arts Loras College Planning Services Department Gty Hall 50 West 13th Street Dubuque, Iowa 52001-4864 (563) 589-4210 office (563) 589-4221 fax (563) 690-6678 TOD planning@cityofdubuque.org www.cityofdubuque.org D~~~E ~~~ March 2, 2005 The Honorable Mayor and City Council City of Dubuque 50 W. 13th Street Dubuque, IA 52001 RE: FY2006 Budget Request for Full-time Assistant Planner Dear Mayor and City Council Members: The Long Range Planning Advisory Commission has reviewed the Fiscal Year 2006 budget improvement request in the Planning Services Department for an increase of the part-time Assistant Planner to full-time to support Historic Preservation and City Planning Activities. This full-time position will help support, in part, the City Council's long-standing commitments to planned and managed growth, downtown revitalization, and historic preservation. By a vote of 4-0, the Long Range Planning Advisory Commission recommends City Council approval of the FY2006 budget improvement level request for a full-time Assistant Planner. Sincerely, ~~ David Wm. Rusk, Chairperson Long Range Planning Advisory Commission Service People Integrity Responsibility Innovation Teamwork