Every business, including governments, has a responsibility to address customer concerns. We all strive to meet our goals. There is also the need to get the work done and make progress. Even on a personal level we work towards these attributes. These days standing still really means moving behind as the world doesn’t stop and others move ahead. I think that’s the way it is supposed to happen.
Doing this means change is upon us and it also means we move in the direction that positions us to meet our stated goals. The city undertook an effort to update our Comprehensive Plan. This process took a number of years. The finished product was adopted by the City Council in June of 2010. Within that plan are numerous stated goals. Accomplishing these takes time and a concretive effort from all parties involved in the process. It starts with the goal but quickly moves to the staff person who will carry these goals forward. As it continues to move forward it goes to the Planning Commission and may ultimately move to the City Council.
Aside from the Comprehensive Plan there are day to day responsibilities the city is responsible for. Certainly there are permit requests that need to be addressed. Some require thorough review of the situation and others are easy to accomplish. Some require review and approval from the Planning Commission and the City Council. There are also requests made for information of which may not result in the issuance of a permit. All of this takes time and those requesting service deserve to be dealt with on a timely basis.
The dynamics of a group are ever changing. Dealing with this means we need to address the change appropriately to meet our responsibilities and obligations. We also need to continue to strive towards the goals we have committed ourselves to. This is no different than a business trying to meet their goals in addressing customer service or expanding their business.
With the loss of a staff person the council was faced with the question of how we meet the needs of the city. The city discussed options with other units of government. The possibility of contracting with a neighboring city was explored to no avail. The question was addressed and we’re advertising for the hiring of a planner. We’re hopeful we find a suitable person to fill this position. We continue to look into our obligation to deal with septic tank inspections and approvals. At this point it is possible to work with another governmental body to address this need. Finding efficient and effective solutions is important.
Waiting to fail is not an option, taking care of business is important for any organization.
Thursday, February 17, 2011
Friday, February 4, 2011
Breezy Point Channel
This last year the city looked at the possibility of acquiring tax forfeiture property along the channel and Breezy Point Drive. This had long been a goal of the city and was included in the Comprehensive Plan. After several discussions with Crow Wing County the city was able to work with them in making this acquisition.
The idea for the transaction was to acquire the property and build a fishing dock along it. Each spring we see fishermen crowding the banks to get in on the early bite. It was felt that a pier that runs along the channel would provide an attractive and functional amenity that could also be handicap assessable. The extent of improvements is yet to be determined but with any project you take it in steps and acquiring the land comes first.
The final obstacle has been cleared, that of DNR approval. They have agreed the city can acquire the property. So the next step is setting up the transaction with the county. They will prepare the deeds and record the instrument upon payment of the costs for the land. What has been agreed to, is a cost of $16,200 for lots 35-37 and 39-47 of the 22nd Addition to Breezy Point.
With the transfer of land the Park and Recreation Committee can start the process of planning to determine what the proposed project would involve. Once some decisions are made we’ll be looking at funding options towards the eventual project.
Progress is being made and I know we have a number of excited people concerning this project. Stay tuned for change but progress can sometimes be slow, especially when it comes to funding.
The idea for the transaction was to acquire the property and build a fishing dock along it. Each spring we see fishermen crowding the banks to get in on the early bite. It was felt that a pier that runs along the channel would provide an attractive and functional amenity that could also be handicap assessable. The extent of improvements is yet to be determined but with any project you take it in steps and acquiring the land comes first.
The final obstacle has been cleared, that of DNR approval. They have agreed the city can acquire the property. So the next step is setting up the transaction with the county. They will prepare the deeds and record the instrument upon payment of the costs for the land. What has been agreed to, is a cost of $16,200 for lots 35-37 and 39-47 of the 22nd Addition to Breezy Point.
With the transfer of land the Park and Recreation Committee can start the process of planning to determine what the proposed project would involve. Once some decisions are made we’ll be looking at funding options towards the eventual project.
Progress is being made and I know we have a number of excited people concerning this project. Stay tuned for change but progress can sometimes be slow, especially when it comes to funding.
Friday, January 14, 2011
Fiscal Review
As we look towards closing out our books for 2010 I’m gratified to note that staff has been very diligent about keeping their budgets in check. It was a tough year in a lot of respects with changes in state funding, done in 2009 and affecting operations in 2010.
Taking a quick look at expenses we finished out the year with an unaudited reference of 88% of budget. Each department carried its own balance but every department came in under budget, some more than others. In accomplishing this, every department head worked towards a more efficient approach in operations but I think the effort really involved all employees. Some efforts were in making due with what we have. Some efforts involved creative thinking. Some were really ones of a conscious effort of “is there a need or a want”. And others were strong statements, in effect of, we can’t afford to go beyond this point. Most of these savings will continue with changes in operations. Some include deferred maintenance. These issues do catch up to you in time but for now we’re making it work.
On the revenue side of things we came in with unaudited revenues to budget figure of 99%. A lot of the proposed revenues we anticipated were down. These include things like fees for services. Tax revenue was also down somewhat with some properties not making their payments for whatever reason. Where most of the benefit was received in revenues was with Delinquent Taxes. Here we saw the start of a changing economy where properties are changing hands and delinquent taxes are being paid. I would assume this trend will continue but it is difficult to know for sure what the market will bring. The crystal ball is still a bit foggy on these details.
With the new year we have new beginnings and a new budget to work with. The winter season has been already showing stress with the snow plow budget. Managing these expenses means 1 inch snows don’t get attention but periodic 1 inch snows become problems which need to be dealt with. I spoke earlier about the budget for 2011 which is less than 2010’s budget. We’ll continue to do what we can to manage with what we have. Accomplishing these expenditure ratios will be difficult to do in 2011. Our goal however is to work within our means and continue the excellence in efficiency as we move through 2011.
Taking a quick look at expenses we finished out the year with an unaudited reference of 88% of budget. Each department carried its own balance but every department came in under budget, some more than others. In accomplishing this, every department head worked towards a more efficient approach in operations but I think the effort really involved all employees. Some efforts were in making due with what we have. Some efforts involved creative thinking. Some were really ones of a conscious effort of “is there a need or a want”. And others were strong statements, in effect of, we can’t afford to go beyond this point. Most of these savings will continue with changes in operations. Some include deferred maintenance. These issues do catch up to you in time but for now we’re making it work.
On the revenue side of things we came in with unaudited revenues to budget figure of 99%. A lot of the proposed revenues we anticipated were down. These include things like fees for services. Tax revenue was also down somewhat with some properties not making their payments for whatever reason. Where most of the benefit was received in revenues was with Delinquent Taxes. Here we saw the start of a changing economy where properties are changing hands and delinquent taxes are being paid. I would assume this trend will continue but it is difficult to know for sure what the market will bring. The crystal ball is still a bit foggy on these details.
With the new year we have new beginnings and a new budget to work with. The winter season has been already showing stress with the snow plow budget. Managing these expenses means 1 inch snows don’t get attention but periodic 1 inch snows become problems which need to be dealt with. I spoke earlier about the budget for 2011 which is less than 2010’s budget. We’ll continue to do what we can to manage with what we have. Accomplishing these expenditure ratios will be difficult to do in 2011. Our goal however is to work within our means and continue the excellence in efficiency as we move through 2011.
Wednesday, December 22, 2010
Change
As the end of the year draws near the City of Breezy Point is at the crossroads of change. This change includes two council members who have served the city for many years letting their terms lapse and two others joining the council. Many thanks and appreciation goes out to Diane Williams and Erik Lee. Diane spending 10 years on the council and Erik spending 4 years.
Council members elect include Tom Lillehei and Scott Willer. Both were previously on the Planning Commission and Scott Willer is a former council member. We welcome them and look forward to their service with the Oaths of Office being taken on January 3, 2011.
Another change in leadership occurs within the Cemetery Commission. Mike Landecker, one of the founders of Pelican Woods Cemetery, has also let his term pass. He has felt it is time for another to carry the reins within the Cemetery Commission so a newcomer will be appointed. Mike has spent countless hours to make the cemetery the best it can be with a labor of love. His attention to detail truly shows when it comes to outcomes. With Mike’s many years of service to and for the commission he will be missed but hopefully open to answer those questions of the past that maybe hard to find.
Another change is that of the budget for 2011. The final levy was adopted at a Special December 20th Council Meeting. This year was difficult, not only to this city but all jurisdictions with a change in taxable value. Almost without exception every taxing jurisdiction in the state saw declines in property values for all the reasons we’re aware of. Many jurisdictions have relied on growth to address increases in budgets to keep property taxes relatively flat. This year, with declining taxable values, even keeping a levy flat from that of last year means increases in taxes for most property owners.
Breezy Point was no different. We lost $295,694 in tax value. Keeping the tax levy the same as last year resulted in an increase of $25.76 for a home valued at $150,000. With this understanding the council sought to further reduce the levy. After final council action the levy was reduced an additional $50,600. This didn’t bring the tax rate back to the level of 2010 but it did head off some of the increase that was proposed. With the new budget we’ll continue to be conscious of spending and resources living with less than the past year.
Council members elect include Tom Lillehei and Scott Willer. Both were previously on the Planning Commission and Scott Willer is a former council member. We welcome them and look forward to their service with the Oaths of Office being taken on January 3, 2011.
Another change in leadership occurs within the Cemetery Commission. Mike Landecker, one of the founders of Pelican Woods Cemetery, has also let his term pass. He has felt it is time for another to carry the reins within the Cemetery Commission so a newcomer will be appointed. Mike has spent countless hours to make the cemetery the best it can be with a labor of love. His attention to detail truly shows when it comes to outcomes. With Mike’s many years of service to and for the commission he will be missed but hopefully open to answer those questions of the past that maybe hard to find.
Another change is that of the budget for 2011. The final levy was adopted at a Special December 20th Council Meeting. This year was difficult, not only to this city but all jurisdictions with a change in taxable value. Almost without exception every taxing jurisdiction in the state saw declines in property values for all the reasons we’re aware of. Many jurisdictions have relied on growth to address increases in budgets to keep property taxes relatively flat. This year, with declining taxable values, even keeping a levy flat from that of last year means increases in taxes for most property owners.
Breezy Point was no different. We lost $295,694 in tax value. Keeping the tax levy the same as last year resulted in an increase of $25.76 for a home valued at $150,000. With this understanding the council sought to further reduce the levy. After final council action the levy was reduced an additional $50,600. This didn’t bring the tax rate back to the level of 2010 but it did head off some of the increase that was proposed. With the new budget we’ll continue to be conscious of spending and resources living with less than the past year.
Thursday, December 9, 2010
Budgets, Levies and Taxes
Each year the city council works on a budget for the upcoming year. Most years the effort takes a good deal of time starting in June or July. The process takes on all forms of reviewing records; looking at projections and determining what needs are and will be for up to 18 months in the future.
This year was no different in these respects but what was of concern was that of what will happen to the tax base. Taxes are paid by property taxes which are determined through a set of formulas and calculations. It all starts with the value of a piece of property. The County Assessor looks at each individual property to determine a value based on market conditions. Market conditions are defined by willing buyers and sellers. Properties that are foreclosed on are not used to determine market. Each property, by law, must be assessed between 90% and 105% of the market value for a property. All properties in each taxing jurisdiction are assessed.
The next step in the process is to develop the Tax Capacity for each jurisdiction. Taxpayers fall into classes of residential homestead, non-homestead residential, commercial, industrial and others as defined by statute. With these categories a class rate is assigned to determine tax capacity. Homestead residential is 1% of the market value for the first $500,000. Commercial is at 1.5% for the first $150,000 and 2% for values above that. Each property is then assigned a tax capacity and that amount is the value you are taxed on.
Local taxing jurisdictions set their levies for the upcoming year looking at revenues and expenditures. The preliminary levies are certified to the county. Once the county has determined the Tax Capacity for a taxing jurisdiction and a city its levy, the levy is divided by the Tax Capacity to get a tax rate. This is expressed in a percentage and the projected rate for Breezy Point was based on the preliminary levy to be 35.189%. With further reductions to the preliminary levy the city reduced the levy another $16,942 dropping the tax rate to 34.854%. This revised levy amount was $10 less than the levy set last year.
Last year the tax rate was 33.137%. The problem came with the loss of tax capacity of the city which came mostly from a general reduction in property values. Keeping the levy the same but with a reduction in tax capacity by 5.5% resulted in a 1.717% increase in the tax rate. The unfortunate part is we don’t have or know the tax capacity until early December for the upcoming year.
The city council felt that with the loss of tax capacity and the potential for additional reductions next year that cuts to the budget were needed. The goal is to reduce the level of taxes (tax rate) to that of last year. The final levy needs to be certified to the county prior to December 28th.
This year was no different in these respects but what was of concern was that of what will happen to the tax base. Taxes are paid by property taxes which are determined through a set of formulas and calculations. It all starts with the value of a piece of property. The County Assessor looks at each individual property to determine a value based on market conditions. Market conditions are defined by willing buyers and sellers. Properties that are foreclosed on are not used to determine market. Each property, by law, must be assessed between 90% and 105% of the market value for a property. All properties in each taxing jurisdiction are assessed.
The next step in the process is to develop the Tax Capacity for each jurisdiction. Taxpayers fall into classes of residential homestead, non-homestead residential, commercial, industrial and others as defined by statute. With these categories a class rate is assigned to determine tax capacity. Homestead residential is 1% of the market value for the first $500,000. Commercial is at 1.5% for the first $150,000 and 2% for values above that. Each property is then assigned a tax capacity and that amount is the value you are taxed on.
Local taxing jurisdictions set their levies for the upcoming year looking at revenues and expenditures. The preliminary levies are certified to the county. Once the county has determined the Tax Capacity for a taxing jurisdiction and a city its levy, the levy is divided by the Tax Capacity to get a tax rate. This is expressed in a percentage and the projected rate for Breezy Point was based on the preliminary levy to be 35.189%. With further reductions to the preliminary levy the city reduced the levy another $16,942 dropping the tax rate to 34.854%. This revised levy amount was $10 less than the levy set last year.
Last year the tax rate was 33.137%. The problem came with the loss of tax capacity of the city which came mostly from a general reduction in property values. Keeping the levy the same but with a reduction in tax capacity by 5.5% resulted in a 1.717% increase in the tax rate. The unfortunate part is we don’t have or know the tax capacity until early December for the upcoming year.
The city council felt that with the loss of tax capacity and the potential for additional reductions next year that cuts to the budget were needed. The goal is to reduce the level of taxes (tax rate) to that of last year. The final levy needs to be certified to the county prior to December 28th.
Monday, November 22, 2010
Planning Commissioner Anyone?
The city adopted the Comprehensive Plan in June of this year and with that adoption, came a number of things the city will do as it relates to the plan. At the top of the list was a new zoning district called the Resort Commercial District. It was felt that a district should be established that encompasses the types of land uses that we see with this type of use. Previously we have had several districts that didn’t mesh as well as they should have given the type of land uses we see.
The Planning Commission has work diligently on this for some time and recently adopted a change to the ordinance to make that addition. Within the next month or so we’ll make the physical changes to the zoning map to categorize all properties that fall within that designation.
Another change that has occurred is that of renaming a couple of districts. This was done to better characterize the present and future use of the land. This established the Urban Reserve District and the Conservation-Open Space Districts. In these instances the previous Agricultural Zone and the Open Zone were changed in designations but rezoning of the land will not occur.
Two items have been taken care of but there are many more to go. They include: Creating an Airport District with the help of the Airport Association, Creating an Estate Lot Zoning District, Rezoning un-sewered R-3 to R-2, establishing Landscaping and Screening standards, reworking the Subdivision Ordinance, reworking the Zoning Ordinance in a different format, creating a Shoreland Management Overlay District and a Campground Zoning District.
These, as you can imagine, take time to work through. The Planning Commission also has periodic land use applications for consideration and review. Moving these goals along are priorities for the city and any input from the public, along the way, is appreciated. In addition if you have interest in the Planning Commission and their activities the city is currently accepting applications for Commissioners. Application forms are available at our website but also available by calling city hall.
The Planning Commission has work diligently on this for some time and recently adopted a change to the ordinance to make that addition. Within the next month or so we’ll make the physical changes to the zoning map to categorize all properties that fall within that designation.
Another change that has occurred is that of renaming a couple of districts. This was done to better characterize the present and future use of the land. This established the Urban Reserve District and the Conservation-Open Space Districts. In these instances the previous Agricultural Zone and the Open Zone were changed in designations but rezoning of the land will not occur.
Two items have been taken care of but there are many more to go. They include: Creating an Airport District with the help of the Airport Association, Creating an Estate Lot Zoning District, Rezoning un-sewered R-3 to R-2, establishing Landscaping and Screening standards, reworking the Subdivision Ordinance, reworking the Zoning Ordinance in a different format, creating a Shoreland Management Overlay District and a Campground Zoning District.
These, as you can imagine, take time to work through. The Planning Commission also has periodic land use applications for consideration and review. Moving these goals along are priorities for the city and any input from the public, along the way, is appreciated. In addition if you have interest in the Planning Commission and their activities the city is currently accepting applications for Commissioners. Application forms are available at our website but also available by calling city hall.
Tuesday, November 9, 2010
Due Process in Improvements
Public Improvements are something of a challenge in Breezy Point. By this I mean the improvements of roadways and drainage in particular. The process under state law is found in Chapter 429 and involves a number of steps. This process is generally referred to as the assessment process. Accomplishing the steps is mechanical but provides for due process and the ability to allow those parties involved the ability to be heard.
The reason I state that it is challenging, is the building of improvements costs money. Doing so means property owner assessments. With the current state of the economy there are a good many parties who can’t afford the additional costs of an annual assessment. Typically assessments are spread between 10 and 20 years. Interest is charged on these assessments much like a loan for your mortgage. The annual payments are then split between the two tax payments that are made with your property taxes.
This summer we had one petition move forward with the paving of Owl Circle. Given the size of the project it didn’t attract many bidders, only 2 bids were received. Also due to the size of the project unit prices were not as attractive as we had hoped for. Never the less, even though the project exceeded the estimate some of the property owners were anxious to see the project move forward. The project was built and assessed.
Another project petitioned for was that of paving and drainage improvements to Violet lane. This project was larger in scale with an estimated cost of $236,000. The project included drainage issues and soils corrections which added to the cost. Looking at the project to find an equitable way to spread the costs resulted in a proposed front foot cost and two assessment rates depending on the extent of work involved. It is important to look at any improvement project with an eye towards fairness. Any process you use in assigning costs could be questioned as there is no perfect system but there shouldn’t be winners and losers in the outcomes.
A public hearing was held for this project and a good number of involved parties were at the hearing. Most spoke against the project citing a number of concerns, the largest being that of costs. After looking at how the assessments would affect them some of the property owners withdrew their petition for improvements. This brings the threshold for council action up to require a 4/5 vote as a council would then be ordering the improvements outside of a valid petition. Property owners can petition a project with 35% of the frontage being represented. Without that, the council can move the project forward but it takes a higher majority vote rather than a simple majority.
It was determined that the project would not continue towards construction. The city invested time and money in looking at the costs and project details but without that it is difficult to know what to tell people about expenses.
We have one other petition that has been presented for consideration, that of Papago Circle. This project also involves drainage in addition to paving. The process continues with the feasibility report which will help the council, as well as the involved residents, address the impact they may experience.
The reason I state that it is challenging, is the building of improvements costs money. Doing so means property owner assessments. With the current state of the economy there are a good many parties who can’t afford the additional costs of an annual assessment. Typically assessments are spread between 10 and 20 years. Interest is charged on these assessments much like a loan for your mortgage. The annual payments are then split between the two tax payments that are made with your property taxes.
This summer we had one petition move forward with the paving of Owl Circle. Given the size of the project it didn’t attract many bidders, only 2 bids were received. Also due to the size of the project unit prices were not as attractive as we had hoped for. Never the less, even though the project exceeded the estimate some of the property owners were anxious to see the project move forward. The project was built and assessed.
Another project petitioned for was that of paving and drainage improvements to Violet lane. This project was larger in scale with an estimated cost of $236,000. The project included drainage issues and soils corrections which added to the cost. Looking at the project to find an equitable way to spread the costs resulted in a proposed front foot cost and two assessment rates depending on the extent of work involved. It is important to look at any improvement project with an eye towards fairness. Any process you use in assigning costs could be questioned as there is no perfect system but there shouldn’t be winners and losers in the outcomes.
A public hearing was held for this project and a good number of involved parties were at the hearing. Most spoke against the project citing a number of concerns, the largest being that of costs. After looking at how the assessments would affect them some of the property owners withdrew their petition for improvements. This brings the threshold for council action up to require a 4/5 vote as a council would then be ordering the improvements outside of a valid petition. Property owners can petition a project with 35% of the frontage being represented. Without that, the council can move the project forward but it takes a higher majority vote rather than a simple majority.
It was determined that the project would not continue towards construction. The city invested time and money in looking at the costs and project details but without that it is difficult to know what to tell people about expenses.
We have one other petition that has been presented for consideration, that of Papago Circle. This project also involves drainage in addition to paving. The process continues with the feasibility report which will help the council, as well as the involved residents, address the impact they may experience.
Thursday, November 4, 2010
election 2010
Election Day has come and gone. Believe it or not, it’s a lot of work. Training started in the summer with a session to understand the law changes and what we’ll be looking forward to. In August we had training for election judges. That means we contact election judges and others who may be interested in being a judge. Keep in mind we need to have a head judge who runs the day and is in charge. We then have 6-7 others working during the day. With two shifts that we had 12 judges, some working a double shift. They need to attend training and be certified as a judge.
There is the Primary Election which narrows down the candidates. This election is generally smaller in terms of turnout and the number of judges is typically less as well. Prior to this election there is public election machine testing that occurs at the courthouse. Here a testing procedure is used to make sure the voting equipment is operating properly. It also sets the equipment at zero so it is ready for the election. Following the testing the equipment is taken to city hall for storage until Election Day. Just prior to the Election Day another trip is made to pick up election materials and supplies.
The day begins at about 5 am but really starts the preceding day with setup of the room. In the morning the room is finished off with equipment setup, arranging of signs and posters and the sorting of materials. Ballots are setup for use having 2 judges initialing each. The ballot receiptss are also initialed by 2 judges. The registration books are readied for those who have preregistered and other materials are set up for those who wish to register on election day. Each judge has a part in the election fulfilling that function to provide for a smooth and orderly process.
For the General Election the process is the same but your judges have already been trained. Other than that, the procedure for the General Election involves the same amount of work but we see more voters. The day moves along rapidly with a somewhat constant stream of voters. This year we made some improvements in the process and room with added voter stations and better flow of voters through the building. We had very few issues during the day. Additional voting stations will be added for the next election, in 2012.
Turnout at the polls was 907 voters and another 90 absentee ballots were cast making the total 997. Turnout was less than expected with only 65.7% of registered voters making the election, but similar to the county average. In 2008 we had a turn out of 79.5%. 91 people registered at the polls on Election Day. Total registered voters now stand at 1517.
I have to give thanks for all of this to the great work accomplished by our election judges. A huge thanks goes to Clarice Blaeser as the head election judge. The election went well thanks to their efforts.
There is the Primary Election which narrows down the candidates. This election is generally smaller in terms of turnout and the number of judges is typically less as well. Prior to this election there is public election machine testing that occurs at the courthouse. Here a testing procedure is used to make sure the voting equipment is operating properly. It also sets the equipment at zero so it is ready for the election. Following the testing the equipment is taken to city hall for storage until Election Day. Just prior to the Election Day another trip is made to pick up election materials and supplies.
The day begins at about 5 am but really starts the preceding day with setup of the room. In the morning the room is finished off with equipment setup, arranging of signs and posters and the sorting of materials. Ballots are setup for use having 2 judges initialing each. The ballot receiptss are also initialed by 2 judges. The registration books are readied for those who have preregistered and other materials are set up for those who wish to register on election day. Each judge has a part in the election fulfilling that function to provide for a smooth and orderly process.
For the General Election the process is the same but your judges have already been trained. Other than that, the procedure for the General Election involves the same amount of work but we see more voters. The day moves along rapidly with a somewhat constant stream of voters. This year we made some improvements in the process and room with added voter stations and better flow of voters through the building. We had very few issues during the day. Additional voting stations will be added for the next election, in 2012.
Turnout at the polls was 907 voters and another 90 absentee ballots were cast making the total 997. Turnout was less than expected with only 65.7% of registered voters making the election, but similar to the county average. In 2008 we had a turn out of 79.5%. 91 people registered at the polls on Election Day. Total registered voters now stand at 1517.
I have to give thanks for all of this to the great work accomplished by our election judges. A huge thanks goes to Clarice Blaeser as the head election judge. The election went well thanks to their efforts.
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
Paying your Sewer Bill Online
On line sewer payments are now an option for the sewer users in Breezy Point. This new service will hopefully provide for more convenience to those people who prefer do their bill paying from home or even when traveling. The process is easy.
You start with a visit to the city webs site. If you found this blog you probably have already been there. On the left side of the page are a number of different options to choose from. The one that says ONLINE PAYMENTS powered by RevTrak is the button you use. This routes you to the City of Breezy Point Web Store welcome page. On this page there is a link “make a payment on line”. Click this and you’re in. The next screen can assist you with your account or other needs but if you click on sewer service a screen comes up to let you enter your name, account number and payment. It will also let you view your balance and once entered for payment you can view what’s in your cart. It seems a bit different that you fill your cart with a sewer payment but the program is set up much like other on line programs for purchasing. After the information on name and account are entered, click on the check balance. With that a confirmation screen appears and you see a “buy now” button on the bottom of the screen. Clicking that reveals the cart and allows you to go to checkout. The next screen asks for your email for payment confirmation. Click on the bottom where it states “sign in to secure server”, which brings up the billing page. Here you add in your billing information and a password. Once you have a password the billing information is carried forward for the next time when you sign in. The credit card information is not stored so each time this must be added when paying.
In the future we hope to expand the web store to provide for other things such as permits however in most instances you’ll still need to stop by to pick up materials, more on this later.
In any event we hope those who have a need to pay on line find it useful and it meets your needs.
You start with a visit to the city webs site. If you found this blog you probably have already been there. On the left side of the page are a number of different options to choose from. The one that says ONLINE PAYMENTS powered by RevTrak is the button you use. This routes you to the City of Breezy Point Web Store welcome page. On this page there is a link “make a payment on line”. Click this and you’re in. The next screen can assist you with your account or other needs but if you click on sewer service a screen comes up to let you enter your name, account number and payment. It will also let you view your balance and once entered for payment you can view what’s in your cart. It seems a bit different that you fill your cart with a sewer payment but the program is set up much like other on line programs for purchasing. After the information on name and account are entered, click on the check balance. With that a confirmation screen appears and you see a “buy now” button on the bottom of the screen. Clicking that reveals the cart and allows you to go to checkout. The next screen asks for your email for payment confirmation. Click on the bottom where it states “sign in to secure server”, which brings up the billing page. Here you add in your billing information and a password. Once you have a password the billing information is carried forward for the next time when you sign in. The credit card information is not stored so each time this must be added when paying.
In the future we hope to expand the web store to provide for other things such as permits however in most instances you’ll still need to stop by to pick up materials, more on this later.
In any event we hope those who have a need to pay on line find it useful and it meets your needs.
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
Change is Upon Us
Some of you may wonder what is going on at the airport? Large belly dump trucks hauled in dirt and dumped them on the north end of the airstrip. A good deal of fill was needed as the airport is extending its length another 600 feet. A total of 50 belly dump trucks were brought in to extend the run way. The new air strip extension has a base of 5 inches of class five and will have an additional 3 inches of asphalt installed. Paving is scheduled for next week. The runway will be 3250 feet long when completed.
The flyway has been improved with the removal of trees on both sides of Ski Chalet Drive. On the cemetery side of the road the high power lines are being buried. This additionally improves the safety of pilots by removing restrictions in the flyway.
Perhaps you recall the removal of trees along the cemetery last fall. A berm and new plantings were installed this spring to replace the area where the trees were removed in the cemetery. This area provides a natural division from the roadway and defines the cemetery to some extent. Low growth trees and scrubs were planted to give the area a unique look.
After the power lines are buried a split rail fence, which was donated, will also be installed along the roadway on the cemetery side by the cemetery. Split rail fencing is already installed along the other side. This will be installed shortly after the power lines are buried and will be back far enough from the roadway to allow for adequate snow storage. This area will be looking very nice for years to come.
The Co. Rd. 4 project is nearing completion for the year. The county anticipates that paving will commence the week of the 18th. Paving will be accomplished with one lift of asphalt being installed this fall and another being laid in the spring of 2011. Seeding is to occur this fall along the roadway. It certainly will be good to have this access again available to residents of Breezy Point. It has been a difficult year for some who use that road to get to their homes but worth the mess and disruption when it is all done.
Within Breezy Point we saw the completion of Owl Circle paving. We have received petitions from property owners who reside on Violet Lane for improvements. We also had some interest in another roadway for paving and drainage. These may a may not be something that happens next year but it seems there is always change upon us.
The flyway has been improved with the removal of trees on both sides of Ski Chalet Drive. On the cemetery side of the road the high power lines are being buried. This additionally improves the safety of pilots by removing restrictions in the flyway.
Perhaps you recall the removal of trees along the cemetery last fall. A berm and new plantings were installed this spring to replace the area where the trees were removed in the cemetery. This area provides a natural division from the roadway and defines the cemetery to some extent. Low growth trees and scrubs were planted to give the area a unique look.
After the power lines are buried a split rail fence, which was donated, will also be installed along the roadway on the cemetery side by the cemetery. Split rail fencing is already installed along the other side. This will be installed shortly after the power lines are buried and will be back far enough from the roadway to allow for adequate snow storage. This area will be looking very nice for years to come.
The Co. Rd. 4 project is nearing completion for the year. The county anticipates that paving will commence the week of the 18th. Paving will be accomplished with one lift of asphalt being installed this fall and another being laid in the spring of 2011. Seeding is to occur this fall along the roadway. It certainly will be good to have this access again available to residents of Breezy Point. It has been a difficult year for some who use that road to get to their homes but worth the mess and disruption when it is all done.
Within Breezy Point we saw the completion of Owl Circle paving. We have received petitions from property owners who reside on Violet Lane for improvements. We also had some interest in another roadway for paving and drainage. These may a may not be something that happens next year but it seems there is always change upon us.
Thursday, September 30, 2010
Voting
With all the campaign ads and lawn signs around we know it is election season. The general election is November 2nd from 7:00 am to 8:00 pm. For Breezy Point residents voting takes place at city hall. This is located at 8319 Co. Rd. 11, across from the airport and south of the Public Safety Building.
If you have recently moved or become eligible to vote you will need to register. Advance registration can be done at the county offices. There are forms available at city hall as well. You’ll need to provide some identification information such as a social security number or driver’s license number. The form can be mailed in. The last day to pre-register is October 12.
You can also register on Election Day at the polls. You will need to provide information such as a current MN Drivers license or MN Photo ID card showing your current address in the precinct. A tribal ID or prior registration with a change of address or name in the same precinct can also work.
If your ID does not show your current address someone who is registered in your precinct can vouch for you. You can also use a current utility bill and photo ID to prove residency.
If you can’t make it to the polls on Election Day you can vote in advance with an absentee ballot. Absentee ballots can be received at the county courthouse. If you are registered, an absentee ballot can also be sent to you if there is sufficient time to receive the ballot and mail it back. In any event you’ll need to contact the County Auditor’s office to arrange for an absentee ballot. The Auditor’s office is also open on Saturday October 30th from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. for absentee voting. The last day an absentee ballot can be accomplished is Monday November 1st.
Election Day is November 2nd, please exercise your right to vote.
If you have recently moved or become eligible to vote you will need to register. Advance registration can be done at the county offices. There are forms available at city hall as well. You’ll need to provide some identification information such as a social security number or driver’s license number. The form can be mailed in. The last day to pre-register is October 12.
You can also register on Election Day at the polls. You will need to provide information such as a current MN Drivers license or MN Photo ID card showing your current address in the precinct. A tribal ID or prior registration with a change of address or name in the same precinct can also work.
If your ID does not show your current address someone who is registered in your precinct can vouch for you. You can also use a current utility bill and photo ID to prove residency.
If you can’t make it to the polls on Election Day you can vote in advance with an absentee ballot. Absentee ballots can be received at the county courthouse. If you are registered, an absentee ballot can also be sent to you if there is sufficient time to receive the ballot and mail it back. In any event you’ll need to contact the County Auditor’s office to arrange for an absentee ballot. The Auditor’s office is also open on Saturday October 30th from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. for absentee voting. The last day an absentee ballot can be accomplished is Monday November 1st.
Election Day is November 2nd, please exercise your right to vote.
Monday, September 27, 2010
Housing Starts
We all have experienced the result of the declining economy but recently we have seen a small uptick in new housing starts. Building permits have creped along this year much like last year and we’re now seeing a few single family homes come in. We have 4 single family home starts so far but we also have 2 more in the wings with another 3 rumored to come in. Two 2 quad homes are in the works for construction adding to the building of housing in Breezy Point. A number of these single family homes are tear downs of seasonal structures with a rebuilding of a new year-round home. This sometimes means a change in population while it is an increase in taxable valuation.
Throughout the summer we saw a fair amount of decks, porches, garages, and additions. Remodeling of existing structures was also prevalent as property owners work to better their housing conditions. Construction typically picks up this time of year as builders need to get some things in the ground before winter freeze up. All this brings new hope for change and things to come.
This is truly good news as we haven’t anticipated the housing starts we have seen. The evidence of properties changing hands is apparent in assessment searches and septic tank certifications gives further pause to consider that perhaps things are stating to turn around. We’re a far cry from the housing boom of the past but seeing housing starts again is certainly welcome. We can only hope the change continues through next year.
Throughout the summer we saw a fair amount of decks, porches, garages, and additions. Remodeling of existing structures was also prevalent as property owners work to better their housing conditions. Construction typically picks up this time of year as builders need to get some things in the ground before winter freeze up. All this brings new hope for change and things to come.
This is truly good news as we haven’t anticipated the housing starts we have seen. The evidence of properties changing hands is apparent in assessment searches and septic tank certifications gives further pause to consider that perhaps things are stating to turn around. We’re a far cry from the housing boom of the past but seeing housing starts again is certainly welcome. We can only hope the change continues through next year.
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