09/10/1980 Meeting - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

Mayor Keller stated that he feels it is important that Ms. Smith take a message back to MWMC. He has concerns about adopting the budget because e it appears more people are being added. The council did not agree to create a second level of government. He feels if a larger staff is needed for a short period of time, then these individuals should be on contract as the first alternative. Ms. Smith stated that she would convey the concerns. Ms. Miller stated the she has heard the concerns expressed by Mr. Lieua11en and by others as well. However, there is no safe alternative which would allow development to occur at the urban density the council desires. Any alternatives would also be expensive. Ms. Smith moved, seconded by Mr. Lieuallen, to approve the Metropol- itan Wastewater Management Commission budget for fiscal year 1980-81. Mr. Lieuallen stated that this project began with a budget of about $105 million and a committed local share of $30 million. Now, the cost is projected at $140 million to $160 million. The length of time it takes for completion will also be a cost factor. There has been no public discussion of these issues. Mayor Keller noted that inflation has been expensive. Hopefully, they can reduce estimated costs. There are not many alternatives for this service. If it had to stop at this point, it would create more costs later on. Roll call vote; motion carried 5:1 with Councilor Lieua11en voting - no. VII. CONSIDERATION OF MEDICAL SERVICES, INC., REQUEST FOR A TEMPORARY INCREASE IN MOBILCHAIR RATES (memo distributed) Mr. Henry stated that MSI trustees have indicated that because of their bankruptcy situation, each division of the company must be self-supporting and not subsidized by other portions of the business. The letter received . states that if the rate increases are not approved, the Mobilchair division will need to be closed. The dollar figures in the letter have not been audited. This is a substantial increase in charges, increasing them from $9 to $47 for an average trip. Mobi1chair services are from bedrooms to vehicle. LTD has the only comparable service--Dial-A-Bus--which is $4 per round trip. However, this is curbside service. There are a number of alternat ives: to delay action; to deregulate rates; or to grant a portion or all of the increase temporarily. Staff would recommend deregulation. If MSI no longer is able to provide the service, the question is raised on how the service is to be provided. There are serious reservations as to whether a Mobi1cnair service can sustain itself. He added there will probably be fewer requests for this service if rates are raised to the extent of the request. Eric Mellgren and Pat Lynch, City Manager's Office, are available to answer questions. A representative from MSI and LTD will provide information. - 9/lD/80--8