PH-23-044 HOLD a public hearing on proposed rate increases for FY 2024

Provided updates on the crime solutions committee, urged the council not to cancel meetings due to lack of quorum, and defended animal advisory committee fees.

Expressed concern that water and solid waste rate ordinances were grouped under the public hearing notice without clear disclosure, and warned that fee increases impact renters and small businesses.

Discussed developer collaboration with the city and appreciated staff meetings to clarify development review fees, noting that costs are ultimately passed to homebuyers.

Objected to newspaper insinuations about campaign contributions, criticized the accuracy of staff estimates for subdivision inspection hours, and argued that developers contribute significant tax revenue.

Argued that astronomical development fee increases will kill development and raised concerns about animal shelter euthanasia practices.

Stated that raising development fees artificially drives up home prices and hurts first-time homebuyers.

Expressed frustration over a lack of advance notice regarding fee increases and noted House Bill 3492 limits fee spikes.

Stated that developers were given no advance notice of massive fee hikes and called for better communication and partnership.

Warned that massive fee increases will drive up home prices during a housing crisis and push buyers to other cities.