Legislative Priorities for Iowa League of CitiesTHE CTTY OF
DUB CJE
Masterpiece cm the Mississippi
MEMORANDUM
July 11, 2007
TO: The Honorable Mayor and City Council Members
FROM: Michael C. Van Milligen, City Manager
SUBJECT: Legislative Priorities for the Iowa League of Cities
In preparation for the upcoming session of the Iowa Assembly, the League of Cities has
requested submissions of suggested priorities for the League from member
communities.
Assistant City Manager Teri Goodmann recommends that the following submissions be
sent to the Iowa League:
1. Funding of TIME 21 program to support the Iowa Department of Transportation's
program of work for building and maintenance of the state-wide transportation
infrastructure and additional assistance to cities and counties.
2. Legislation authorizing City's ability to seek and secure alternative revenue
sources including but not limited to franchise fees.
3. Legislation that will support economic development including State sales tax
abatement for retail businesses locating in downtowns across the state,
increased funding for historic preservation tax credits, and other similar policies
and programs.
4. Property Tax reform legislation that will not harm Cities -but will enhance our
ability to provide for the public good through a more equitable tax policy.
I concur with the recommendation and respectfully request Mayor and City Council
approval.
~~
"l
Michael C. Van Milligen
MCVM/jh
cc: Barry Lindahl, City Attorney
Cindy Steinhauser, Assistant City Manager
Teri Goodmann, Assistant City Manager