11-12-01 Residential Neighborhoods & Community & Economic Development

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Joint Meeting of the Residential Neighborhoods Committee and the Community&Economic Development Committee November 12, 2001 Page 3 both legislative and constitutional concerns. He stated that he would get more information on this topic and share it with the committees. Council Member Coleman suggested that there should be a more comprehensive look at this proposal in an "unbundled fashion", noting that most people will focus on their own individual properties and tax implications. He noted that the Council's constituencies may infer that the utility companies are the great beneficiaries of the new plan, even though they have carried a disproportionate share in the past. Mr. Nussbaum stated that as assessments are made they would be able to calculate various alternatives. Council Member King stated that the plan being discussed appears to be developed for "big business" to understand, and that another plan needs to be developed so that the residential owners can understand the proposal. Mayor Luecke stated that he has asked the new Controller Frederick"Rick"011ett to begin working on developing a model so that many variables can be tracked and then explained at public forums. Council Member Coleman voiced concern noting that he does not believe the city should be the messenger since we are not the author of the plan. Council Member Coleman stressed that the state is responsible to get the model out to the communities throughout the state. Mayor Luecke stated that he believes that the city should get the message out. Dr. Varner noted that most persons know what the fair market value is of their homes and if information could be developed which would assist homeowners in knowing what percentage would apply and what the taxes would be, that that type of information would be useful. Mr. Nussbaum asked the Council Members to call him if they had questions or suggestions, and encouraged the legislative body to contact their state representatives and senators to take action this legislative session. Council Member King inquired as to what steps would be taking place next. Mr. Nussbaum stated that legislation is being drafted now, and that the organizational day of the house and senate will take place later this month. Mayor Luecke stated that he would be going down to Indianapolis every other week when the legislature is in session and will continue to work with IACT and the Metro Mayors. He noted that old age and veterans exemptions are to be continued; however we need to look at the impact on COIT and the 8%homestead credit. Council President Pfeifer suggested setting up a date now for a follow-up meeting in December. Council Member Kelly stated that we should start spreading the word. Mr. Nussbaum requested copies of any models developed by the City.