Kevin Cederstrom
Those who still need to license their dogs this year should do it soon before fees increase.
The New York Mills City Council passed a new animal ordinance Monday increasing the annual license fee to $20 for dogs and $10 for cats, starting Jan. 1. Pet owners who haven't purchased licenses for 2007 and do so before July 1 can pay the current fee of $6. After July 1 to the end of the year, the fee increases to $10 for dogs and $5 for cats. Starting Jan. 1, 2008 the new fees of $20/dog and $10/cat will go into effect.
License tags are good each year from Jan. 1 to Jan. 1 the following year.
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Part of the reason to increase the fee is the current fee of $6 doesn't cover of the tags.
Bar hours
As discussed at last month's meeting, the council approved an ordinance setting bar hours in the city. Monday - Thursday, last call will be 11:30 p.m. and people need to vacate the establishment by 12 midnight. Friday and Saturday, 12:30 is last call and people need to vacate by 1 a.m.
Property taxes
The council discussed property taxes on lots the city owns along Centennial/84. The city and Dennis Swenson agreed to a 90-day lease on the corner lot on Centennial and Broadway. Mayor Larry Hodgson informed the council Swenson has first right of refusal on the loss if someone wants to buy it before the lease is up.
The city received a property tax bill on the lot for $2,972. Of that $333 will go back to the city, leaving a $2,639 net payment. Of that, $1,948 are special assessments for this year. The net property tax the city owes on the lot in 2007 is $692. Just under $13,000 in special assessments will remain with the lot after this year's payment.
Across the street, the city owns a lot along the railroad tracks east of the old Mid-State facility. The property tax bill for that lot is $6,720. The city will essentially pay itself back $2,190 and $4,530 remains. There are no assessments to this property.
Economic Developer
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The EDA is forming a search committee and writing up parameters for what they want from an economic developer. They are looking to define what they expect this consultant will do, as well as set compensation.
The EDA is looking to replace Terry Stallman, who stepped down as economic developer last month.
Special meeting
The city council will hold a special meeting April 19, 5 p.m., to discuss audit results.
