The city seemed to function fine after the budget was reduced in during 2020/2021. Provided we are still in a pandemic, why have the cuts been restored?

During 2020/2021, the City reduced or delayed costs related to maintaining infrastructure and tree replanting. It is unlikely residents would notice a measurable difference due to these reductions in one or two years, however it is not possible to continue them indefinitely.

The City has also made reductions to the number of employees during the pandemic and some of those reductions were permanent.  

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1. Please explain in detail why the city has $83.5 million in debt?
2. Please explain how the city will pay off outstanding debt? Will the City’s debt continue to rise?
3. How will Hopkins utilize the funding received from American Rescue Plan Act?
4. Where is the 5 percent increase in tax capacity expected to come from?
5. The city seemed to function fine after the budget was reduced in during 2020/2021. Provided we are still in a pandemic, why have the cuts been restored?
6. How do you model revenue around Tax Increment Financing projects to ensure there is sufficient revenue for increased demand on City services before the project is decertified?
7. Have you run current cost recovery models for inspection services like rental licensing or fire inspections in comparison to other metro area cities?
8. In order for Southwest Light Rail to be successful, people need to feel safe. How will the City ensure that people feel safe while riding? Will it be paid for by raising taxes? Should we ask busines
9. How do we engage the community more in the budget process?
10. What is the history behind the Fire Department responding to medical calls? They make up a large share of the work?
11. I would like more information on the amount of Tax Increment Financing (TIF) and its duration.