FY2013 BUDGET: VIRTUAL TOWN HALL CAMPAIGNgsmcon.com/.../City-of-Ankeny-Virtual-Town-Hall-Report.pdf · 2020-01-06 · The FY 2013 Budget Virtual Town Hall campaign met the objective

FY2013 BUDGET: VIRTUAL TOWN HALL

CAMPAIGN

City-County Communications & Marketing Association2012 Savvy Awards

Portland, OR - September 5-7, 2012

JUDGES COMMENTS FOR THE CITY OF ANKENY’S VIRTUAL TOWN HALL

SOCIAL MEDIA CAMPAIGN

Digital Interactive - Social Media SAVVY AWARD (1st Place) “A letter-perfect presentation that would allow any community to emulate the Virtual Town Hall deployed to engage residents in the essential work of annual budget development. Ankeny delivers a 5-star performance.”

Citizen ParticipationAWARD OF EXCELLENCE (Runner Up)

“Bravo! Well done! I am impressed with your research efforts and statistical representation to show achievement. You understand your audience well and clearly knew how much using social media would help you! Great project and great submittal package. Very clear, concise and well written. Wonderful job!”

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Budget 2013:

Virtual Town Hall – Summary Report

April 2, 2012

Public Relations Department 2 | P a g e

Background π ǿǿǿΦŦŀŎŜōƻƻƪΦŎƻƳκ!ƴƪŜƴȅL!κ

The FY 2013 Budget: Virtual Town Hall Campaign was launched January 4, 2012 in an effort to facilitate a larger community conversation about significant budget issues facing the city council. Taking the conversation to Facebook presented an opportunity to have a broader conversation; one with more interaction between citizens and the City and citizens with one another in a transparent and open manner.

The campaign was designed to promote and enhance citizen engagement and participation in local government decision-making by sharing their suggestions and comments with the city council throughout the budget process.

Activity

Public relations staff posted information a total of 18 times to Facebook about specific budget issues. The goal was to generate conversation prior to each budget workshop when the issue would be discussed by the city council. A follow up message after each budget workshop was posted to report any key takeaways from the workshop. Examples included: Capital Improvements Program, utility rates, operating funds and personnel and the annual budget retreat.

Outcomes

The Virtual Town Hall generated 91 comments from citizens, 48 unique citizen commentators, 3,357 unique views and resulted in 450 new Facebook fans. You can see a complete list of activity on page .

A follow-up survey was conducted to determine citizen satisfaction with the Virtual Town Hall and whether citizens would find value in continuing it as a forum for other important community issues. The survey results indicate overall satisfaction with the Virtual Town Hall and strong interest in seeing it again as a forum to discuss other important community issues. A complete report of results is attached to this memorandum.

The FY 2013 Budget Virtual Town Hall campaign met the objective to foster a broader community conversation about significant budget issues facing the city council in a convenient and accessible online platform. Over 5,000 people viewed the Town Hall; substantially more than attendance at all of the budget workshops and meetings combined. Additionally, elected officials received quality information directly from citizens. This initiative is aligned with the city council goal of improved public information and communication.

Summary

An e-democracy initiative like the Virtual Town Hall is ideal for a community like Ankeny where 92 percent of Ankeny households have internet and email and 74 percent use social media. (Source: 2012 Citizen Survey Report of Results).

Providing an online space where citizens, elected officials and community leaders with diverse ideas and backgrounds can discuss the important local issues facing the city in a civil and respectful manner enhances citizen engagement and participation in local government decision-making and works to build trust in local government. Note: The City also used Twitter to promote and engage citizens about the Virtual Town Hall, generatingover 50,000 views over a three month period.

Public Relations Department 3 | P a g e

VIRTUAL TOWN HALL ACTIVITY SUMMARY

Number of Virtual Town Hall posts 18

Number of total comments 124

Number of comments made by the City of Ankeny 35

Number of "likes" given to the City of Ankeny 18

Number of citizen comments 91

Number of "likes" given to citizen comments 105

Number of unique citizen commenter’s 48

Number of new Facebook fans from 1/4/2012 - 3/21/2012

450

Number of new Facebook fans during similar period 2011 91

Number of VTH views from 1/4/2012 - 3/21/2012 3,357

Number of Twitter posts 40

Number of Twitter retweets 14

Potential exposure of Twitter messages based on followers 53,245

VTH POST Reach Engaged

U r Talking

Ab t Thi Virality

Campaign Launch 203 13 4 1.97%

Historical Context 278 35 5 1.80%

Capital Improvements Program 296 73 23 7.77%

CIP Follow Up 238 25 4 1.68%

Cost Savings, Public Safety, and 2012 Project List 712 59 8 1.12%

Capital Improvements Program Update 552 14 1 0.18%

Presentation of Water, Sewer and Storm Utilities 316 13 2 0.63%

Presentation of Water, Sewer and Storm Utilities Follow-Up 221 40 9 4.07%

The School District and The City 117 11 2 1.13%

Water and Sewer Rates Feedback 726 48 3 0.41%

Operating Funds and Personnel 605 27 3 0.50%

Operating Funds and Personnel Follow Up 549 23 -- --

Annual Budget Retreat 292 50 10 3.42%

Annual Budget Retreat Follow-Up 151 9 1 0.66%

Community Information Meeting Follow-Up 524 10 2 0.38%

Thank You 129 8 6 4.65%

Budget Approval 84 3 -- --

Total 5,993 461 83

Definitions Reach – The number of unique readers who have seen the post in the first 28 days of publication Engaged Users – The number of unique users who have clicked the post in the first 28 days of publication Talking About This – Likes, comments or shares Virality – Percentage generated from Reach compared to those Talking About Post

1 of 8

Virtual Town Hall Feedback

1. Did you read, comment on or "like" a post in the Virtual Town Hall? This applies to

content written by the City or by citizens who may have participated.

Response

Percent

Response

Count

Yes 78.9% 15

No 21.1% 4

answered question 19

skipped question 2

2. Of the 17 posts published by the City of Ankeny to the Virtual Town Hall, approximately

how many of them did you read?

Response

Percent

Response

Count

None of them 10.5% 2

1 - 3 5.3% 1

4 - 6 26.3% 5

7 - 9 0.0% 0

10 - 12 10.5% 2

13 - 15 5.3% 1

All of them 21.1% 4

Not sure 21.1% 4


skipped question 2

2 of 8

3. On average, how often would you look for updates to the Virtual Town Hall? This applies

to content written by the City or by citizens who may have participated.

Response

Percent

Response

Count

Never 5.3% 1

Hourly 0.0% 0

Daily 31.6% 6

Weekly 42.1% 8

Twice weekly 0.0% 0

Don't know 21.1% 4


skipped question 2

4. As a means of communicating the FY Budget 2013, how valuable did you find the Virtual

Town Hall.

Response

Percent

Response

Count

Very valuable 26.3% 5

Somewhat valuable 57.9% 11

Slightly valuable 10.5% 2

Not at all valuable 0.0% 0

Don't know 5.3% 1


skipped question 2

3 of 8

5. To what degree do you feel the Virtual Town Hall made the FY 2013 budget more

accessible to citizens?

Response

Percent

Response

Count

Very accessible 36.8% 7

Somewhat accessible 36.8% 7

Slightly accessible 21.1% 4

Not at all accessible 5.3% 1


skipped question 2

6. To what degree did you find the posts/comments/replies made by the City of Ankeny

informative?

Response

Percent

Response

Count

Very informative 22.2% 4

Somewhat informative 66.7% 12

Slightly informative 11.1% 2

Not at all informative 0.0% 0


skipped question 3

4 of 8

7. To what degree do you agree with the following statement: "The City of Ankeny

addressed comments and questions in a timely and appropriate manner."

Response

Percent

Response

Count

Agree 31.6% 6

Somewhat agree 42.1% 8

Somewhat disagree 10.5% 2

Disagree 0.0% 0

Don't know 15.8% 3


skipped question 2

8. To what degree do you agree with the the following statement: "The Virtual Town Hall

made budget discussion more open/transparent."

Response

Percent

Response

Count

Agree 26.3% 5



Disagree 0.0% 0

Don't know 10.5% 2


skipped question 2

5 of 8

9. To what degree do you agree with the following statement: "Participating in the Virtual

Town Hall made me feel more involved in the decision-making process."

Response

Percent

Response

Count

Agree 5.3% 1



Disagree 21.1% 4

Don't know 5.3% 1


skipped question 2

10. To what degree do you agree with the following statement: The Virtual Town Hall helped

me feel more connected to the City Council."

Response

Percent

Response

Count

Agree 16.7% 3



Disagree 11.1% 2

Don't know 11.1% 2


skipped question 3

6 of 8

11. To what degree do you agree with the following statement: "The Virtual Town Hall

helped me understand the decisions faced by the City Council."

Response

Percent

Response

Count

Agree 22.2% 4



Disagree 5.6% 1

Don't know 16.7% 3


skipped question 3

12. How interested are you in seeing the Virtual Town Hall used in the future to discuss

other important community issues?

Response

Percent

Response

Count

Extremely 42.1% 8

Very 36.8% 7

Moderately 21.1% 4

Slightly 0.0% 0

Not at all 0.0% 0


skipped question 2

7 of 8

13. What is your gender?

Response

Percent

Response

Count

Male 57.9% 11

Female 42.1% 8


skipped question 2

14. What is your age?

Response

Percent

Response

Count

25 or under 5.3% 1

26 - 40 47.4% 9

41 - 55 42.1% 8

55 or older 5.3% 1


skipped question 2

8 of 8

15. What is the highest level of education you've completed?

Response

Percent

Response

Count

High school or equivalent 0.0% 0

Vocational / technical school (2

years) 0.0% 0

Some college 15.8% 3

Bachelor's degree 68.4% 13

Master's degree 10.5% 2

Doctoral degree 0.0% 0

Professional degree (MD, JD, etc.) 5.3% 1

Other (please specify) 0


skipped question 2

16. How long have you lived in Ankeny?

Response

Percent

Response

Count

Less than 5 years 26.3% 5

6 - 10 years 36.8% 7

11 - 20 years 15.8% 3

More than 20 years 21.1% 4


skipped question 2

Virtual Town Hall 2012

Key Testimonials

“I believe that if followed through upon this idea could make great progress in our great city!”

“Thank you so much for the quick replies to our points. I think that using this forum is a great idea to get more citizens involved in local government and I'm happy to see an effort being made to get more input… Thank you again for allowing those of us who cannot attend Council meetings to have some input!!”

“Thank you for all the information.”

“Thank you for the information, it's very informative and straight forward… Thank you again for asking for citizen input!”

“Thank you for the timely response… Once again, thank you for your service to those of us taking part in this discussion!”

“I appreciate the dialogue.”

“I look forward to your continued comments on this and many other topics.”

“Thanks for the info.”

“First off, kudos to Ankeny for interacting with citizens on this page. It is greatly appreciated.”

“I want to thank you for hosting this forum as a chance for citizens to share their ideas with our local government. Now that you have used this as a tool to gain input, I would like to see it continued each year.”

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April 5, 2012

Ankeny reaches out to citizens with “Budget 2013” Virtual Town Hall Campaign Contact: Deb Dyar 515.965.6414 [email protected] ANKENY, Iowa (April 5, 2012)– The city of Ankeny is taking this year's budget conversation online in an effort to facilitate a larger conversation with the launch of the “Budget 2013: Virtual Town Hall Campaign on Facebook. "Taking the conversation to Facebook presents an opportunity to have a broader conversation; one with more interaction between the residents and the City and residents with each other," said Deb Dyar, public relations officer. "In the past, the online conversation about the budget took place on the City's website and was very much 'one-to-one.' Facebook allows the conversation to become 'one-to-many' in an open and transparent way" Dyar said. In previous years, a comment section was established on the City website where citizens could ask questions about the budget or post a comment or concern. The Facebook campaign is more interactive and will focus on specific issues that the city council will discuss during a series of upcoming budget workshops including, debt service, capital improvements program, union contracts and more. The campaign is designed to allow citizens an opportunity to be involved in local government and to comment on the decisions elected officials are making on their behalf. "We recognize that not everyone has the time or the opportunity to attend a city council meeting in person," said Dyar. "Bringing these conversations to Facebook provides citizens who were previously unable to participate an opportunity to access information and engage with the city council when it is convenient for them." The City plans to post information to Facebook about specific budget issues to generate conversation prior to the budget workshop when the issue will be discussed by the city council. Similar to questions, comments and opinions expressed in a traditional town hall, the feedback gathered through the Virtual Town Hall will be submitted to the city council prior to final decisions on the FY 2013 budget. "If the campaign is successful, similar campaigns will be deployed in the future to engage citizens on major issues impacting the Ankeny community," Dyar said. About Ankeny Ankeny, Iowa is bringing it all together. As the fastest growing city in Iowa and one of the fastest-growing cities in the Midwest, Ankeny has a current population of over 45,000. Incorporated in 1903, the city is located just north of Des Moines, Iowa's capital city. Ankeny was named one of the Top 100 Places to Live by Money Magazine, designated a Playful City USA community by the KaBOOM! five consecutive years and Family Circle Magazine's Top 10 Best Towns for Families. Ankeny offers an enviable quality of life with pedestrian friendly neighborhoods, numerous recreational and cultural amenities, access to higher learning and an active and engaged citizenry.

Supporting Materials

Prior to each budget workshop all activity on the Budget 2013 Virtual Town Hall was captured and prepared as a report to the city council.

By providing this activity in its entirety helped to inform the city council to the context and tone of each City post and how interaction between citizens and city staff and citizens with one another occurred. It also gave them an unfiltered view of what participants were concerned about, questions they asked and what services they valued.

The approach employed by staff was consistent with what was promised to citizens when the Virtual Town Hall Campaign was launched.

VIRTUAL TOWN HALL FACEBOOK OVERVIEW

POST DATE LIKES SHARES COMMENTS FOLLOWERS AT TIME OF POSTCampaign Launch 1/4/2012 2 0 3 2308

Historical Context 1/5/2012 0 0 11 2308

Capital Improvements

Program1/6/2012 4 1 26 2347


Program ‐ Share #11/6/2012 0 0 3 NA

CIP Follow Up 1/10/2012 1 0 5 2380

Cost Savings, Public

Safety, and 2012 Project

List

1/20/2012 2 1 14 2493


Program Update1/24/2012 0 0 0 2505

Presentation of Water,

Sewer and Storm Utilities1/27/2012 1 0 0 2518

Presentation of Water,

Sewer and Storm Utilities

Follow‐Up

1/31/2012 0 0 14 2527

The School District and

The City2/2/2012 1 1 0 2545

Water and Sewer Rates

Feedback2/9/2012 0 0 28 2595

Operating Funds and

Personnel2/9/2012 3 0 0 2607

Operating Funds and

Personnel Follow Up2/14/2012 0 0 0 2610

Annual Budget Retreat 2/17/2012 0 0 15 2642

Annual Budget Retreat

Follow‐Up2/24/2012 1 0 0 2686

Community Information

Meeting Follow‐Up3/2/2012 0 0 1 2701

Thank You 3/9/2012 0 0 6 2728

Budget Approval 3/13/2012 0 0 1 2736

Survey 3/15/2012 0 0 0 2758

POSTS ON FACEBOOK ‐ Updated 3/21/12

CAMPAIGN LAUNCH

January 4, 2012

COMMENT AUTHOR DATE LIKESI believe that if followed through upon this idea could make great progress in our great city! Cody Saffeels 1/9/2012 0

Thanks for your feedback, Cody. We agree! The City of Ankeny wants to be more proactive with our

communication in 2012 and give everyone the opportunity to contribute to the future of our community. City Of Ankeny 1/9/2012 0

A year‐end or even quarterly report on how this is working and being used would be very interesting!Sheryl McGough 1/28/2012 0

FACEBOOK COMMENTS ‐ Updated 1/30/12

HISTORICAL CONTEXT

January 5, 2012

COMMENT AUTHOR DATE LIKESMy water bill is automatically deducted from my checking acct. Why do I still get a return envelope in with

my statementl? Just thinnk how many residents get those envelopes and we just throw away???? Connie L Kappos 1/6/2012 0

Are administrators wages frozen also? Do we need all the adminstartors that we have or can jobs be

combined?Connie L Kappos 1/6/2012 0

Connie, the wage freeze was for all city employees, including administrators/managers. Some management

positions were also eliminated over the past 36 months as part of a reorganization of city government.

Thanks for the question.

City of Ankeny 1/7/2012 0

Thank you very much for answering I greatly appreicate it.... Connie L Kappos 1/7/2012 0

Connie, I neglected to respond toyour question about return envelopes. I will pass the question on to our

utility billing department on Monday for a response.City of Ankeny 1/8/2012 0

Meetings that start at 5 p.m. are all but impossible to attend for those of us who work normal business hours

ending at 5. Paul Gibbons 1/8/2012 0

Paul, we appreciate this conflict and that is the reason we've established the Virtual Town Hall ‐ to inform

everyone about the decisions facing the council and to give them an opportunity to have their voice be heard!

We encourage your participation and feedback through Facebook. We plan to share everyone's comments

with the Council!


Are there any Industrial Engineers on staff? I know hospitals have started employing IE's to help improve

efficiency and reduce costs. An Industrial Engineer would be able to look at everything as one big system and

be able to pay for his own salary plus much much more in cost savings through LEAN methodologies. I like

the idea of getting rid of return envelopes as mentioned above.

Matt Joens 1/9/2012 1

I don't know if traffic tickets would fall into this, but we could use some more traffic control on Delaware.

From Magazine to First street there are not any stops and people tend to go above the speed limit and speed

up when you try to turn or pull out on Delaware. It would be some quick cash.Deb Nelson 1/10/2012 0

I live on another street that desperately needs patrolled. I'm on SE 3rd between Delaware and Trilein. As I

type this, I've counted six cars easily going 40+ mph down my street. With so many kids on this street and a

school, too, we need better policing.

Sarah Todd Fisher 1/10/2012 0

Deb and Sarah,

Apologies for not getting back to you sooner. We spoke to the Ankeny Police Department and they've asked

that you contact them at 289‐5240 to consult with a supervisor so. With additional details, they can more

effectively address your concerns about traffic patrols and enforcement.



ANKENY CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS PROGRAM

January 6, 2012

COMMENT AUTHOR DATE LIKESUnfortunately, I think the right answer is to increase the debt service levy. If you can fund everything, and

increase it annually, that to me is best. But if the tradeoffs are reduced public safety, then increase it enough

now to cover (

Kerry Shannon 1/6/2012 0

(Second part) Increase it in fewer steps, and make each step bigger, like the 85 and 70 in your exampleKerry Shannon 1/6/2012 0

I appreciate the cuts in operations expeditures that have been made thus far and feel that implementing cuts is

an ongoing process. Is it possible to combine the levy increase with a reduction from another area? Pappa Digger 1/6/2012 1

The third option would seem to have the least immediate impact on a typical tax bill. Couple this option with

seeking out new efficiencies and/or new budget cutting measures. Yearly reviews of any measures taken are

needed to fine tune any plan and aid in addressing budget issues as they evolve over time.Joe Merrill 1/7/2012 1

Stop this insane growth! When growth can no longer pay for itself through the increased tax base, we've

reached critical mass. That happened about 4 years ago. Can someone answer a simple question: If growing the

city is costing us money, then what benefit does it have for us?

Jeff Postal 1/8/2012 9

Why do we need so many full time police officers in a relatively crime free town like Ankeny? I really wonder

when I see officers all around town parked and waiting for something to happen. You sure don't see that in the

city of Des Moines.

Bill Wittren 1/8/2012 6

I also will echo Jeff Postal on the growth issue! Where is the benefit, especially to the citizens?Bill Wittren 1/8/2012 2

I, as a 20+ year citizen of Ankeny, Iowa, believe that more of the annual budget should be spent on the

resources that we have at hand. These include land, schools, and our entrepreneurial nature as a city. The police

department should be put behind any other pressing issues in our thriving metroplis.Cody Saffeels 1/9/2012 0

one voting citizenCody Saffeels 1/9/2012 0

Please DON'T cut police or fire! We have had to use both on occasion over the years and the response was fast.

These public servants aren't paid enough as it is (in comparison to neighboring cities) and they do an excellent

job. As the city grows, so will crime and the need for fire and rescue. My husband grew up in Ankeny, my

children grew up in Polk City and here in Ankeny and now my grandchildren are growing up here. I want Ankeny

to remain a safe city with safe schools. I will happily pay extra to keep police and fire services unchanged.

However, I do not agree with spending money on buildings with architectural design that does nothing but look

good. Make the buildings a little more plain, but still nice and very functional. I, too, am a voting citizen.

Terri Ruble

Krantz1/9/2012 3

I say increase the debt levy once. Hopefully, property values will begin to rise again and there won't be a need to

increase the levy again. Also, I'd like to see this levy go away, or at least be cut in half, once the bond debt is

paid. The city should start saving money for future capital improvements and other needs that will arise as

Ankeny grows rather than going into debt and essentially burning money in interest. This will save taxpayers a

lot of money in the long‐run.

Terri Ruble

Krantz1/9/2012 0

My first thought is to do a combination of a tax increase AND staff reductions. How many Asst. City Managers

and Asst.'s to the City Manager do we really need? How about Public Relations, how many people does that

really take? Should the City even have an Economic Development department if our interests would be better

served by the private ones that already exist? Why did we hire so many full‐time firefighter poisitions when you

have a large pool of part‐time employees who could have filled those positions? Is there a listing of all current

City employee salaries anywhere so that taxpayers can see what we are paying to make a more informed

opinion? I would highly suggest posting salaries on here and in the paper if you really want our opinion.

Tom Reiland 1/9/2012 2

Bill those cops that you see "sitting" around are usually filling out paper work that needs to be done. Police is

the last thing to cut if you want to keep Ankeny safe. The reason you don't see cops "sitting" around DSM is

because there's so much crime their always on call. Support our cops their there to keep is safe and crime free

Amanda

Gardner Lappin1/9/2012 4



January 6, 2012First of all, we want to say thank you to everyone who has participated so far in the Virtual Town Hall. Each of

you has provided valuable feedback that we will take back to the City Council this evening during their budget

planning session and we encourage you to continue this conversation.

In the meantime, we wanted to address a couple of questions raised in the thread.

First, to Mr. Wittren, Ankeny remains a safe community today due to the high level of service provided by the

Ankeny Police Department. If you refer to the 2010 APD Annual Report, you will see there has been a 31%

increase in calls for service since 2006. However, the number of sworn officers has only increased by 9 during

that same time period. At present, on 52 sworn officers serve a community of over 45,000 people. Ankeny PD

has maintained that number of officers since 2009. For comparison, the Des Moines Police Department has 379

sworn officers serving a community of over 203,000 people.

Ms. Krantz, The CIP is not unlike taking out a mortgage on your home. Today, someone might buy a home to

take advantage of low interest rates and competitive home prices and take out a mortgage to fund the

investment over time. The City of Ankeny bonds for large capital projects to spread the cost over time, take

advantage of competitive bid environments and spread the cost of capital improvements to current and future

residents.

If the city saved for these large capital investments, citizens would be overtaxed upfront by millions of dollars. In

the meantime, project costs would increase. The City would not be able to keep up with current and future

infrastructure demands.

Lastly, to Mr. Reiland, regarding staff reductions, three management positions and a number of other staff

positions have been eliminated over the past 36 months as part of a reorganization of city government,

including one in the city manager’s office and one in economic development.

The economic development department generates business growth working in concert with our private sector


Thank you so much for the quick replies to our points. I think that using this forum is a great idea to get more

citizens involved in local government and I'm happy to see an effort being made to get more input. I did go to

the link you provided and while it is useful, it is not quite what I was looking for. I wanted to know if there is a

specific listing of salaries being paid to each employee. The matix gives us what the pay grades are, but doesn't

show how much each employee is paid. For example, if I wanted to know what John Q. Employee was paid in

2011, where can I find that? Thank you again for allowing those of us who can not attend Council meetings to

have some input!!


As an accountant, I can assure you that I completely understand the rationale behind borrowing for capital

improvements and other things that are similarly expensive. However, I disagree with the argument that saving

puts more of a burden on taxpayers. Most companies will offer discounts if a city, company, or person is paying

in cash and paying quickly. Also, paying interest, even so‐called "low" interest is still money burned. It does

nothing but line someone else's pockets. It increases the cost to taxpayers. When money is saved, it earns

interest or grows if invested well. So, the money taxpayers put in now is compounded over time. If invested

well, the money can grow faster than the rate of inflation which then reduces the "cost" of the project. Also, if

government is limited to spend only what is saved, then choices are made to cut "fluff" and stick to what is

important. The contractors are told "here is what we have to spend and here is what we want, make it work." As

it is now, the contractor/architect says "this is what it will cost to build ___" then government goes to the people

and tells them what they have to borrow. There is little incentive for either the contractor or the government to

cut costs. I personally believe that the debt load that government on all levels and the private sector debt load is

what is causing a lot of the economic woes we are faced with right now. Incomes and home values have

dropped so city income is down. Now you have to cut services or raise taxes to pay for debt already incurred. If

Terri Ruble

Krantz1/10/2012 3


January 6, 2012Let's look at this from a business perspective; the corporations that surround this city and employ many of us

are cutting costs, cutting benefits and expecting more from one person's job than in the past, we are doing two

or three people's jobs in corporations. The City of Ankeny can do the same. My opinion is that the schools and

safety is the most important; other programs could be cut if its costing the city. Ankeny already has high

property taxes and I don't understand how it could be in such debt by the amount I pay in property taxes. What

about cutting costs on the vehicles that are used as city vehicles, is it really necessary to have new trucks? I'm

sure there are many places to cut costs and the employees that work for the city would be best to find those

places to cut costs since they see it every day and probably don't want to lose their jobs; I don't know where all

the money is spent, but I'm sure there are ways to further cut costs if the businesses are able to do it and make

a profit then the City of Ankeny can also.

Cayleen

Mesecher1/10/2012 6

instead of raising my taxes (I already pay $7,000 per year, when is enough, enough?) why not do something to

generate more revenue. My first thought is a speed camera on I35 within Ankeny boundaries. The one on 235 in

Des Moines sure seems to be making a LOT of money and my understanding is, that money is going to the city,

not to the DOT. Am I wrong here? What would be the harm in that strategy? Plus, it would free up Police who

routinely make stops on that stretch of roads to do other things.

Mark Charter 1/10/2012 0

Government employees should not indefinately be on the payroll. They can retire at 67 like everyone else. Of

course we need current public safetySusan Nilson 1/11/2012 0

Comparing Des moines saftey needs to Ankeny safety needs is apples to oranges. If a smaller city compares itself

to Des Moines and tries to staff accordingly they will spend on issues that are of little significance to average

citizen. I have no problem with officers in a car, what was done with the Police station is outrageous. And so

when you suggest need, we look at how you have spent in the past to judge you as less than spendthrifts. If you

have it, you will spend it, so the tighter your budget, the better. Anybody else notice an increase in the police

calls when super walmart, super target, etc. opened? Maybe we should ask them to hire officers to patrol that

area out of thier own pocket.

Tim Beckwith 1/14/2012 2

I would suggest furlough's to general fund employees first. One day per month over 36 months for 75

employees in non public safety positions will generate a lot of money with minimal impact to the fantastic

services the City of Ankeny provides. In connection to this option, I would suggest a look at overtime costs each

department operates...look inside the box before raising the taxes to those outside the box.

Kim Wright

Nelson1/14/2012 0

It would have been nice if the city had posted the specific projects and their costs so that we could see

specifically what they are talking about. Why is it not possible to prioritize these project according to the existing

revenue stream without raising taxes?Ankeny is in the fast lane for increasing residential property taxes at a

prohibitive rate. The population is growing both for business and residents. These additions should be bringing

in more revenue without a tax rate increase. It seems to me that Ankeny's rate of spending is far to fast. Slow

down. Everything imaginable does not need to be built all at once.

Joe Dygas 1/15/2012 4

There are needs. There are wants. The government of this city must learn the difference. Also, the government

must plan for the good possibility that the national economy will grow slowly or not at all for many years, due to

the hangover from the financial crisis and continuing poor management at the federal level. In other words, it is

time to start closing departments and laying people off. Even some of our needs are overfunded. I will vote for,

and re‐elect anyone who promises and delivers no new taxes.

Eric Anderson 1/17/2012 2

Expense reduction has to be ongoing and measureable. Each department of the city needs to have "expense

reduction" as a measure on its scorecard. They do have scorecards....right? Rita Carnine 1/17/2012 1

We have sold our house and cut our property taxes by almost half. Good luck Ankeny Shawn Jahner 1/18/2012 1

Being a ex military policeman and an Iraq Veteran I can honestly tell you that reducing Public Safety is a BIG

MISTAKE! Don't Do it! Data shows that more police means less crime:

http://articles.latimes.com/2011/nov/22/opinion/la‐oe‐ridgewayheaton‐police‐20111122 look at this article.

Ankeny should raise tax rates so that this community can continue to be safe, and a good place to raise a family.

كواوتيموك رودريجيز

1/24/2012 1

ANKENY CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS PROGRAM ‐ SHARE #1

January 6, 2012

COMMENT AUTHOR DATE LIKESTo my friends that live in Ankeny. Let's all enjoy our new tax increase together! Gabriel Glynn 1/6/2012 0

ugh...... Eric Fishback 1/6/2012 0

Second that ugh Casey Carlson 1/6/2012 0

I'm sure it's all 'for the children' ha! Tim Caliger 1/7/2012 0


CIP FOLLOW UP

January 10, 2012

COMMENT AUTHOR DATE LIKESI don't understand why money is being spent on all the new bike paths in the SW part of Ankeny and on

Oralabor Rd. Do bikers pay any license fees to support their new path?Pam Larson 1/18/2012 3

Pam, we reached out to Parks & Recreation Director Todd Redenius today regarding your question. He told us

that of the $16 million spent on trails in and around Ankeny, the City cost has been approximately $175,000,

representing $1.09% of total project costs. The remainder has come from state and federal grants, in‐kind

donations of land and private sector contributions. He also said that a 2007 study completed by the Economic

Research Associates in Chicago, Illinois, the economic impact of Ankeny’s trail system is estimated at $8.7

million annually, representing money spent on lodging, fuel, food, entertainment, etc.

To your second question about license fees, currently, Ankeny does not administer a trail/license fee as the

success of this type of fee in Iowa has had mixed results and does not generate sufficient revenue to pay for

trail development. However, staff is reviewing the pros and cons of a trail fee; not to generate revenue for trail

development, but as a funding source for minor trail maintenance and repairs. If you would like more

information, Todd is available at 963‐3571 or by email at [email protected].

City Of Ankeny 1/18/2012 0

When are the stop lights around Ankeny going to be re‐synchronized? I think that would improve traffic flow a

great deal.Bill Wittren 1/18/2012 0

Mr. Wittren, the Public Works Department makes every effort to insure that traffic signals are working

appropriately. For more information about how traffic signals function and are calibrated, please consult this

page on our web site: http://www.ankenyiowa.gov/Index.aspx?page=1202

If you are having problems with a specific traffic signal, there is a link to a form on that page where you can

submit details about the problem directly to Public Works.

Please let us know if you have any questions or concerns.

City Of Ankeny 1/19/2012 0

Following 6 months on the market, our home on Country Club Court finally sold for $45,000 below it's Aug

2009 appraisal. The real estate agent stated the offer was a good one considering how the subdivision had lost

a lot of its desirability due to the 7 month long sewer project that took out a great number of mature trees

lining the roads. If you're selling a home near that area in the near term, and our home turns out to be

comparable for you when appraised, it won't be pretty. Thanks Ankeny, for forcing that system on our

subdivision, and being too ridiculous to put it in the street where it belongs !

Barbara Fowler 1/19/2012 1


COST SAVING, PUBLIC SAFTEY AND 2012 PROJECT LIST

January 20, 2012

COMMENT AUTHOR DATE LIKESQuestion: has the City considered or sought a Safe Routes to School grant for the trail (sidewalk?) project

between Irvinedale and Prairie Trail Elementary? Yes there are strings attached to Federal money, but any

small reduction in project costs that the City taxpayers are responsible for would be helpful

Cindy Leuch

Spencer1/20/2012 0

Thank you for all the information. I am typically not in favor of increasing taxes. That being said, I can't image

Ankeny not moving forward with these projects on the CIP in order to maintain our current quality of life in

this community. In addition, it appears that the City has made several reductions in staffing and other

programs to save City funds. I am in favor of the one‐time increase of $1.33. This option would also give the

City the must flexibility should the State pass the Commercial Tax reduction.

John Gade 1/20/2012 0

Thank you for the information, it's very informative and straight forward. Is there a place that a person can see

each individual City departments budget requests for the upcoming year or is that something that only City

officials get to see? I also noticed that in today's Des Moines Register that the City of Polk City listed what each

city employee was paid in calendar year 2011, can the public see a similar listing for Ankeny? Thank you again

for asking for citizen input!


Anyone see the article in yesterday's paper? Ankeny has as much debt as cities in Iowa 3‐4 times it's size.

That's sad.Bill Wittren 1/21/2012 2

I would be interested to see each line item of each proposed levy cost. I am not in favor of any additional taxes

or tax rate increases. Additionally, just because we would like to have something, does not mean we have to

borrow our way to having it OR over burdening the citizens to get it. I am also with Mr. Reiland in viewing the

list for each employee, including the benefit and investment compensations costs for each respective position.

James Leon

Machamer1/22/2012 5

Cindy,

Thanks for your suggestion regarding the Safe Routes to School grant for the sidewalk between Irvinedale and

Prairie Trail Elementary. The City completed a Safe Routes to School Study in 2009 that included information

about 8 of the community’s elementary schools. You can learn more about the results of that study here:

http://www.ankenyiowa.gov/Index.aspx?page=130#school

Prairie Trail Elementary was not part of that study, so we’ve reached out to Public Works to identify whether

or not it will be included in the blueprint that was generated from the results. We will follow up with you once

we have more information


Tom,

The City of Ankeny publishes our payroll twice monthly as part of the accounts payable packet that is reviewed

and approved by the City Council. To view the most recently payroll information, please consult the following

link from the January 16 City Council agenda:

http://publicagenda.ankenyiowa.gov/AttachmentViewer.aspx?AttachmentID=6764&ItemID=5223

For more detailed salary information, please submit a Public Records Request to the City Clerk’s office here:

http://www.ankenyiowa.gov/index.aspx?page=169

James,

In regard to your inquiry about line items of each proposed levy cost, that information will not exist until bid

specifications are developed.

Budget allocation for projects contained in the CIP are determined by engineers general estimates, the

environment in which the City will potentially accept bids, and do not reflect fixed numbers in this early stage.

Projects may come in above or below estimates depending on variables in the bidding process.

In their decision making, the City Council will review the CIP and approve or reject projects based on

aggregate information – not line item budget considerations. If a project is approved and moves forward, the

City Council will be asked to approve bids, specifications, contracts and costs associated with each project.



COST SAVING, PUBLIC SAFTEY AND 2012 PROJECT LIST

January 20, 2012

Thanks for the reply City of Ankeny, it was just what I expected. I find it frustrating that you say you want our

input, yet roadblocks are put up when we ask fairly simple questions. I am familiar with the documents you

referenced. However, the dollar amounts listed are "net" pay and not "gross". I find it pretty upsetting that a

city much smaller than Ankeny and the Ankeny School District freely publish salaries and yet you ask me to

make an open records request. Do you still charge 15 cents per page or has that fee increased?


Mr. Reiland, we are surprised by your criticism as we have worked very hard to foster an open dialogue about

the 2013 budget in a straightforward and transparent way and not to erect roadblocks counter to those

principles.

A list of employee salaries is not a routine request and would require generating a report from payroll. Our

intent in giving you the link to the public records request form was to provide you a pathway to receive the

information you need; a process that is used routinely by citizens seeking public records. If this is not

satisfactory to you, then perhaps we misunderstand what you are asking for. Providing us further explanation

of what exactly you are looking for may allow us to respond in a manner you deem acceptable.


Thank you for the timely response and by no means am I intending to make this a battle, I'm just looking for

information. I would simply like to see the City publish what each City of Ankeny employee was paid for the

calendar year of 2011. I'm sure it's a simple report to run since W‐2 forms have been given out already, the

hard work is complete. If I have to make an open records request for that, fine. I can't believe that I am the

only person who would like to see this information and I thought if you answered it here, everyone could

receive the same information at once. Years ago the City used to publish what each dept. director level and

higher was paid, why did that stop? Once again, thank you for your service to those of us taking part in this

discussion!


Thank you for the reply. I must admit that I am a little shocked at the reply to file a PRR to get information that

should be available for every Ankeny resident to see. Transparency helps alleviate most, for some all,

continuing questions and reduce skepticism. I believe that those of us that are passionate about ensuring our

tax dollars are spent wisely, only want to ensure that to be, not browbeat a particular individual or group for

earning the pay they are reimbursed. I appreciate the dialogue.

James Leon

Machamer1/26/2012 1

The City of Ankeny is committed to openness in government. We understand the importance of transparency

in our daily actions and strive to earn the trust and involvement from our citizens through open government.

We will consult with senior management to reexamine the City's current policy related to the publication of

employee salaries with a goal of greater transparency.

We appreciate you bringing this matter to our attention and will share with you the outcome of these

discussions in the next few weeks.


I look forward to your continued comments on this and many other topics. James Leon

Machamer2/1/2012 0

Following up on the conversation we had earlier in the month, we were able to confirm that the City does

publish payroll along with accounts payable in the Des Moines Register twice each month. The report shows

what each employee is paid for that payroll period. Additionally, as previously mentioned, employee salaries

are available on the City website herehttp://www.ankenyiowa.gov/Index.aspx?page=260.


PRESENTATION OF WATER, SEWER AND STORM

UTILITIES FOLLOW‐UP

January 31, 2012

COMMENT AUTHOR DATE LIKESAre you kidding me! I don't need higher WATER BILLS. If Ankeny would of properly done the sewer system

correcting in the old part of Ankeny on the NE side and east of Ankeny blvd. Then the residents wouldn't

have to call and pay for the sewer systems to be clean that are out in the parking area or streets . City of

Ankeny, If you need some water, I'll sell you some. My house was built on a pond or lake, sump pump goes

constant!! What you buy from me, I can pay towards electricity bill.

Terry Davis 1/31/2012 4

How about cutting spending instead of raising costs. In this poor economy people are already struggling

and I think you are adding to that burden. Our escrow payment already went up $400 or 50% because our

taxes were underestimated due to the city jacking up the taxes on new subdivisions once they get

established. The city needs to cut spending and tighten its belt like the rest of us. We should not have built

2 lavish high schools in 2 years, we do not need a pond every 100 feet, and we do not need 2 cops to come

give out a ticket for parking on the street when it snows when you are out of town.

Rebecca Sue

Stotts2/5/2012 2

Ms. Stotts, we were confused by the statement regarding your escrow payment and property taxes and

took the opportunity to review the assessed value of your home on the Polk County Assessor's website.

You are correct that Polk County assessed your property slightly higher in 2011. The increase in taxes paid

was likely due to the School District's property tax levy increase in 2010. The City has not raised the

property tax levy for three consecutive years.

We encourage you to read our most recent posting in the Virtual Town Hall. In it, we discuss the

differences between the school district and the city. In addition, it addresses the $2.5 million in cost

reductions that the City has made in the last 36 months.

These cuts have been made in response to current economic conditions during a time of increased

demands on infrastructure from a community that has grown by 67% in the last 12 years.

Laslty, it should be noted that the ponds you see around town are also not built by the City, but are built

by developers for stormwater retention purposes.

For a full list of the City's cost savings measures, please consult the following list on our web site.

http://www.ankenyiowa.gov/Index.aspx?page=1191


I am curious why we must pay sewer on all water used? It would appear that some cities have addressed

this issue very clearly by putting a hand held meter on outside water lines to measure any water used

outdoors so that we would only pay for water that actually has to through the sewers. It seems to me that

the city would be making quite a bit of money by charging equal amounts for all water usage instead of

determining exactly where the water is being used. Look at Waukee if you don't believe me.

Sandy

Flickinger2/6/2012 1

My New Water Charges on the billing 7/30/2008 was $10.41 for 4100 gallons, or .002539 cents per gallon.

My New Water Charges on the billing 1/14/2012 was $24.98 for 7,000 gallons, or .0035685 cents per

gallon. IF my figures are correct it appears there has been a 40.5% increase in that short time. Does it

really need to be raised another 6%? In that same time period it appears sewer charges have increased

10.5% as well as the addition of the $6.00 New Storm Water Charges.

Vern Foughty 2/7/2012 1

45% increase for water, and 90% increase for sewer in just 3 years. And now they want to raise again? Alan Crim 2/8/2012 1

Here's a picture of side‐by‐side bills from 2009 and 2012. No way they should be raising rates again.

http://twitpic.com/8hg66m/full Alan Crim 2/8/2012 0

Ankeny already has the highest sewer and water rates in the state of Iowa. My water bill is three times

higher a month at our new home in Ankeny, than our former home a few blocks away in Crocker

Township. approximately the same water usage. Enough is enough, no new increases!

Steven Miller 2/8/2012 2


PRESENTATION OF WATER, SEWER AND STORM

UTILITIES FOLLOW‐UP

January 31, 2012

Ralph Ager How much did the city pay the financial advisor,consultant?This is a good method to shift the

rate incease to someone not elected or works for the city. The advisor told us what we needed to do…

Susan

Sheffield Ager2/8/2012 0

I think if things keep going the way they are, we will see a lot of middle class citizens of Ankeny vote with

their feet ‐ by moving somewhere else. Bill Wittren 2/9/2012 3

You are correct Mr. Wittren! Once my kids are out of school, we are out of Ankeny, if we can hold on a few

more years! Tom Reiland 2/10/2012 2

We wanted to circle back on some of the comments left in this thread and notify everyone that we have

created a new Virtual Town Hall post addressing them. It can be found here:

https://www.facebook.com/notes/city‐of‐ankeny/budget‐2013‐virtual‐town‐hall‐water‐and‐sewer‐rates‐

feedback/10150519473706292


Please don't punish those of us who live here because of the great schools with higher city fees. I've had to

cut my personal budget. Try that first! Brad Thomas 2/27/2012 0

Mr. Thomas, these rate increases are not intended to "punish" residents. Rather, they are a response to

economic factors controlled by third party affiliates such as the Des Moines Water Works and Wastewater

Reclamation Authority who have raised their rates on the City. These increases are also necessary to

support infrastructure that provides Ankeny residents with safe drinking water.

It should be noted that the City of Ankeny has made considerable effort to find cost reductions in the last 3

years including the elimination of positions and a wage freeze for all employees. We have found process

improvements that have saved residents $2.5 million, a list of which can be found here:


It should also be noted that the City of Ankeny receives only 26% of residential property taxes. The Ankeny

School District receives 49%. More information about tax rates and levies can be found here:


Excellent schools are one of the reasons Ankeny has grown by nearly 70% in the last 10 years. With that

growth comes demands on our infrastructure that must be resolved to maintain the quality of life

residents have come to rely on.


WATER AND SEWER RATES FEEDBACK

February 9, 2012

COMMENT AUTHOR DATE LIKESIs this just the water portion of the bill? I think what most people are complaining about is the total water/sewer

bill, and in Ankeny, the sewer charge is actually higher than the water charge. I've seen recent actual bills for

people in the city of Des Moines, and their total bill is just over half what mine is in Ankeny for similar useage.Bill Wittren 2/10/2012 1

Mr. Wittren, you are correct that the chart only reflects the water portion of the bill.

The sewer rate increase is primarily driven by the City’s decision to join the WRA, a regional conveyance system,

rather than expand its current wastewater treatment plant or build a new one; an outcome determined to be

cost prohibitive.

Membership in the WRA allows Ankeny and all member cities to share the cost of wastewater treatment among

a larger population rather than relying on local facilities.

Ankeny’s wastewater plant will close in late 2013, however collection will continue to occur inside Ankeny and

subsequently conveyed to the regional collection system. Increased costs include infrastructure investment and

the cost of operating the WRA with other member cities, as well as continued investment in the conveyance

system.


Yes, the graph above is misleading. Put another one up that includes water+sewer and Ankeny will be at the top

of the listAlan Crim 2/10/2012 0

The chart is not misleading, Mr. Crim. It is clearly labeled "Avg. Monthly Water Charges."

As we've already stated, we cannot provide a chart that accurately compare sewer rates with other metro

communities. Some of them bundle services like trash pickup and recycling into their rates and that does not

create an opportunity for us to make a direct comparison.


Another issue: according to the link to the "Fund Summary" (found here:

http://www.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ankenyiowa.gov%2FModules%2FShowDocument.aspx

%3Fdocumentid%3D7789&h=VAQHTV_qu) the increases to water and sewer will continue without any sign of

slowdown.

FY12 ‐> 9.75% (sewer) + 6% (water)

FY13 ‐> 9.25% (sewer) + 6% (water)

FY15 ‐> 8% (sewer) + 5% (water)

Why don't you publish on this Facebook page what the expected monthly total for water+sewer will be in FY15?

My back of the envelope calculation is telling me that a $45 dollar monthly bill from 2008 would be about $80 in

2015. Outrageous when you consider you are getting the same product and paying rates far above typical

inflation.

Alan Crim 2/10/2012 0

As far as the WRA improvements go, maybe the city should consider paying for some of these out of the general

"capital improvements" fund instead of leaving the city in a position where it is so uncompetitive with the

surrounding communities. High utility rates have a disproportionate impact on people in lower income brackets

who are struggling in this down economy.

Alan Crim 2/10/2012 0

Maybe the communities that bundle trash with their sewer rates are still cheaper than Ankeny? Or you could

subtract $18 from bills that include trash service and compare that way. In any case, these comparisons probably

won't be done because they would show how much we are truly paying for utilities.Alan Crim 2/10/2012 0



February 9, 2012

Mr. Crim, your calculations are correct. The water and sewer rates you cited for FY12, FY13 and FY15 are

projections for the resources needed to support the current and additional capacity needed in our water and

sewer systems.

However, if it is your assertion that water and sewer rates should hold steady compared to those from 2008, that

is unrealistic. You would not receive the same quality of product.

The City does not control all of the operational costs associated with water and sewer. For example, rates raised

by the Des Moines Water Works or the cost of chemicals to treat raw sewage. Costs have gone up since 2008. If

we were to maintain the same rates from that year, the quality of product you receive would be considered a

health risk to citizens according to 2012 standards and incompliant with state and federal requirements.

These rates are not tied directly to inflation or the cost of living. Consider what you pay for beef or milk at the

grocery store. If the cost of beef goes up 9.75% that does not mean that milk or other commodities will increase

by the same amount. It is relative to the production and distribution of the item in question. The same is true of

water and sewer rates.

We have no evidence to support your view that Ankeny's utility rates are not competitve with other metro

communities (as evident in the Average Monthly Water Charges chart) when we are the fastest growing city in

Iowa with a growing residential and commercial base.


I am not expecting prices to stay the same every year. But let's stick with your steak analogy. Here is what would

happen to the price of an $8 steak from 2007 to 2015 if it followed the same % increase as Ankeny sewer rates.

$8 steak in 2007.

$9.20 in 2008 (15% increase)

$9.50 in 2009 (4% increase)

$10.64 in 2010 (12% increase)

$11.49 in 2011 (8% increase)

$12.61 in 2012 (9.75% increase)

$13.78 in 2013 (9.25% increase)

$14.89 in 2014 (8% increase)

$15.63 in 2015 (5% increase)

Nearly double in price in only 8 years? Any commodity that tries to do that will lose demand. I know I will be

looking for ways to cut back on water consumption.

Alan Crim 2/10/2012 4

But the chart says at the bottom "Averages based on sewer and water availability for 7,500", which could be

taken as the combined charge for water and sewer ‐ I think that is why Mr. Crim calls it misleading. Bill Wittren 2/10/2012 1

We verified with Municipal Utilities that the chart we received from them contained a typo. It was meant to read

"Averages based on water and water availability for 7,500." The chart has been revised.

We do not yet have comparisons between Ankeny and surrounding metro communities in regard to sewer rates,

but that is something Municipal Utilities is working on now. We will be sure to update this thread when we have

that information.


Following up on the inquiry regarding sewer rates compared to other metro communities, the Municipal Utilities

was able to obtain a report from the City of Ames with relevant information.

The following chart depicts the total sewer charge per month for 6,000 gallons. 6,000 gallons represents a

household of 5 people. You're bill may be higher or lower depending on use.

http://www.ankenyiowa.gov/Modules/ShowImage.aspx?imageid=3969


FYI ... the link above doesn't appear to be working correctly? Alan Crim 2/15/2012 0

Hmm. Sorry about that. Not sure what the error is. Try this link instead:

http://www.ankenyiowa.gov/FTP/facebook/VTH/sewer_rate_comparison.jpgCity of Ankeny 2/16/2012 0

So Ankeny is somewhere in the middle, but $26 more, or about 50% higher, than Urbandale, which is lowest.Bill Wittren 2/16/2012 0

Somewhere in the middle on water rates, that's correct. Sewer rates were not factored into the original chart.City of Ankeny 2/16/2012 0


February 9, 2012

Oh, sorry, I should have been more specific. Adding the water rate from the first chart, and the sewer rate from

the second chart, Urbandale is lowest total at about $54, and Waukee is highest at about $103. Ankeny is

somewhere in the middle, with a total of around $80. Thanks for the info.Bill Wittren 2/16/2012 0

Ah. Understood.

Glad we could help. Please let us know if you need additional information!


WATER is way too high, and sewer, plus that other new tax that was added, I work for a non‐profit and I HAVE

NOT had wage increases in 3 years ‐ WHY does the city get more money for the same OLD services... I cant afford

to Flush or do dishes, this is sick... my husband is on a fixed income because of disabliltiy where do we find

help???

Diane Terrell

Segar2/18/2012 0

First off, kudos to Ankeny for interacting with citizens on this page. It is greatly appreciated. Alan Crim 2/18/2012 0

Second, a follow‐up question. Just to be clear, are the rates in the sewer comparison excluding trash removal? I

assume they are, just wanted to be clear. It seems like the real issue is our membership in WRA‐‐an organization

that is NOT accountable to the community of Ankeny and is free to raise rates without any consequence.Alan Crim 2/18/2012 0

Ms. Segar, we encourage you to go back and read our responses in this thread. It is important to recognize that

residents are not being supplied with the same "old" services and there are economic factors contributing to

these rate increases that are beyond the City's control.

Specifically, rate increases being handed down from the Des Moines Water works and the Water Reclamation

Authority. The cost of chemicals that treat wastewater have also increased.

The City's population has also grown significantly in the last 10 years. We are the fastest growing community in

the state. Without making the necessary investments in infrastructure, water quality would present a health risk

to citizens that would be incompliant with state and federal requirements.


Mr. Crim, you are correct that the chart represents sewer rates excluding the ancillary fees other communities

attach to their sewer rate. The original report was prepared by the City of Ames.

The challenge the City of Ankeny faces in regard to wastewater treatment is that our current wastewater

treatment facility is too small to meet the needs of our growing community. Expanding the current facility or

building a second facility is not an option due to a lack of tributaries near the city.

We will try to get more information for you regarding our relationship with the WRA on Monday.


Why are the developers not being charged an adequate assessment to account for the increased needs of the

city? All this new construction should be done in such a way that it helps support the additional infrastructure

required. Not wait unti we build a thousand new homes, then realize we have inadequate services to handle the

growth.

Bill Wittren 2/18/2012 0

Well you sorta answered some of my questions, WHERE do we find help to pay our bill since we live on a fixed

income? Do you have an assecessment person LIKE Mid‐american Energy that can help us find ways to cut our

water useage? We did the Mid‐Am energy assessment and we also had help from them for adding insulation

which was wonderful, does the Water Dept do this too?

Diane Terrell

Segar2/18/2012 0

Mr. Crim, the WRA is a regional organization made up of 17 metro‐area municipalities. A Board of

Representatives, comprised of elected officials from each participating community, make decisions in the best

interest of member communities. The City of Ankeny's representative is Councilman Jim McKenna.City of Ankeny 2/20/2012 0


February 9, 2012

Mr. Wittern, the City's arrangement with developers requires them to pay for the infrastructure needed to

support their projects ‐ this includes roads, electricity, water and sewer. After these connections have been

established, it is the City's responsibility to maintain these systems.

Part of the issue we face is that we've grown beyond the capacity of what our current wastewater treatment

facility can handle. But, more importantly, we cannot expand or build a new facility due to a lack of tributaries in

the area. That is a geographic reality that motivates cooperation with external entities like the Des Moines Water

Works and the Wastewater Reclamation Authority.

Rate increases are required to maintain the City’s current water and sewer revenue bond ratings, pay for

increased operating and maintenance costs, offset DMWW rate adjustments, and finance growing obligations to

the WRA as the City completes the conversion from local to regional wastewater treatment.

For an example of offsetting costs, 4% of the proposed 6% water rate increase can be directly attributed to Des

Moines Water Works rate adjustments. The remaining 2% pays for the maintenance of the existing infrastructure.


Ms. Segar, we spoke to Lori Pick with the Municipal Utilities Department regarding your inquiry about financial

assistance.

Unfortunately, the Municipal Utilities Department does not offer any kind of assistance with water bills at this

time, but they will work with customers on short‐term pay arrangements.

You can contact the Municipal Utilities Department directly at 515‐963‐3523 if you would like to discuss your

options. They can also recommend to you third‐party organizations that might be able to offer assistance at that

time.

The Des Moines Water Works has information about how to limit water usage which can be found here:

http://www.dmww.com/education/using‐water‐wisely/ Per your suggestion, we are looking at adding similar

tips to the City of Ankeny's web site.

Please let us know if you have any additional questions or concerns.


ANNUAL BUDGET RETREAT

February 17, 2012

COMMENT AUTHOR DATE LIKESI can understand the need to balance where money is allocated. Personally, I am disappointed in the

recommendation to not proceed with the 4 additional police officer positions. Yes we have a safe city. The

discussion is more around the number of calls, types of calls, and prioritization of responses that goes on today,

only to increase as the city grows. The schools are projecting more kids in the future,

Kelly Shannon 2/17/2012 2

so that confirms that the number of people in the city will continue to grow. Some calls require more than one

officer to safely handle. So that call to investigate a situation on the other side of the city may not get as fast a

response as it needs. Can they get to the interstate in time to check on a driver weaving around? The noisy party,

the bike trail, accidents on a rainy or icy day, etc. We ask them to provide service, then we need to do our part

and make sure they have the tools and resources needed so that they can do their job safely.

Kelly Shannon 2/17/2012 2

Why do we have so many City trucks and cars, AND they appear to be brand new... I PAY more than my parents in

Propty. taxes and their home is 2x's the size of mine and they live in Linn County... why is Ankeny so pricey? I do

not feel we have good Managers, or wise council people in place, we need to live in our budget ‐ why cant the city

of Ankeny do the same?? I drive a 1995 Car that I keep up, and service reg. and have not had a car payment since

1990's!

Diane Terrell

Segar2/18/2012 4

Vechiles and GAS are a big deal... look at down sizing here! Share vehciles IF needed!Diane Terrell

Segar2/18/2012 1

STOP. in the 20+ yrs I've lived here i have never seen a town waste money on so much stuff thats not needed and

neglect things that need to be handled.Mark Harre 2/18/2012 1

Ms. Segar, we can get you more information about the city's fleet of vehicles on Monday when everyone is back

in the office.

In the meantime, please take a look at the Cost Reductions page on the City's web site. Efforts have been made in

the last 36 months to reduce the amount of money being spent in response to economic conditions.

$42 million has been cut out of the current CIP and nearly $2.5 million has been saved from the operations

budget. http://www.ankenyiowa.gov/Index.aspx?page=1191

Mr. Harre, can you give us some examples of things that aren't needed? What specifically has the City neglected

in your view? We might be able to provide you with additional information.


I can give you an example of things that aren't needed. How about a budget RETREAT. How much did the

taxpayer's have to shell out for the city of Ankeny to go to Pinnacle Club. I thought thats what office's are for. I

find a lot of government offices spend way too much on RETREATS to country clubs or resorts to "discuss

business" and fail to utilize the space they already own. The sad thing is, is nobody stops it because its fun when

your employer pays for you to go somewhere nice. But in this case its not just an employer, its the taxpayer.

Mike Sellers 2/19/2012 0

If I do recall correctlly...Otter Creek golf course is a department of Ankeny...which would mean that the Pinnacle

Club is a city facility. Assuming that Otter Creek golf course and the Pinnacle Club are funded by the course's

revenue...and not the taxpayer's dollars...I would guess that it's a safe judgement to say that the taxpayer's

dollars did not fund this "RETREAT."

Steven Van

Newkirk2/20/2012 0

Mr. Van Newkirk is correct. The Pinnacle Club is part of Otter Creek Golf Course, which is owned and operated by

the City of Ankeny.

The Council's retreat there on Friday was booked at no expense to the taxpayer.


was there not long ago my dauighter lives there nice town Lillian Pritchett 2/20/2012 0



February 17, 2012Ms. Segar, in regard to maintaining city vehicles, we agree that it is a priority and the City does everything in its

power to extend the life of our equipment and resources.

We spoke to Al Olson in Public Works who shared with us the following picture of one of his departments rubber

tire wheel loaders. The exterior shell of this unit was refabricated, repaired and repainted over a two year period

of time to the point that it looks like new. During the winter months, equipment such as this is cleaned after every

storm to prevent rust and corrosion from salt. The unit pictured is over 20 years old. It was manufactured in 1991.

Additionally, you might find the results of one of our "Innovision" teams relevant. "iTeam 1" recently revised our

vehicle maintenance schedule to help lower repair, inventory and insurance costs related to the fleet that will

create savings for the taxpayer.

A summary of the report the presented to the Ankeny City Council last fall can be found here:



Mr. Van Newkirk is correct. The Pinnacle Club is part of Otter Creek Golf Course, which is owned and operated by

the City of Ankeny.

The Council's retreat there on Friday was booked at no expense to the taxpayer.


I think know the city needs to start thinking about cutting things that aren't essential, such as an extensive park

and recreation department. Liz Anderson 2/20/2012 0

If Ankeny works like any other city or organization, their largest HR commitment is in retirement and health

benefits. Consider offering early retirement opportunities for close to retirement age workers and delay the

rehiring of any non‐esential positions for at least 120 days. Should be some cost savings there. In addition, shared

community services should be evaluated. Organizations like the YMCA, religious organizations and other non

profits are much more flexible to provide social services than government and to do so on a shoe string budget.

are there programs that Ankeny currently offers that they could partner or contract out to a smaller organization

at a lower price? Finally, service payments to Ankeny by individual credit card have got to be astronomical. Why

not look at saving on credit card processing fees by providing a discount or cash back savings for electronic debit

payments. If people switch, they receive a cash back or discount on their bill? Finally, evaluate travel costs for

employees for professional development/conferences. Invest in webinars, organize a conference and invite

state/regional peers to come to Ankeny or utilize technology in a more efficient way in order to avoid mileage and

airline/hotel costs. Best of luck

Blake

Campbell2/25/2012 1

Mr. Campbell, You offer some very good suggestions and clearly have an understanding of the complexity of local

government.

During the last three years, the City, through an early retirement program realized savings of approximately

$600,000; eliminated full and part time positions saving $620,000 and implemented a one year wage freeze for all

city employees, saving $540,000. The City’s workforce today is at 4.3 per thousand population; the same as 2005.

A complete list of the City’s cost reduction efforts can be found online here:

http://www.ankenyiowa.gov/Index.aspx?page=1191. A presentation was made to the city council earlier this

month regarding the City’s operating funds and personnel that contains more detailed information. A PDF of the

presentation is available online here:

http://www.ankenyiowa.gov/Modules/ShowDocument.aspx?documentid=7833.

The city manager’s budget directives this year (and last) included: reduction in travel and training, use of webinars

and online training opportunities. A complete list of this year’s budget directives can be found online here:

http://www.ankenyiowa.gov/Modules/ShowDocument.aspx?documentid=7497.

We have shared your suggestion about credit cards fees with the finance office and will report back to you once

we hear back from her.



February 17, 2012Ms. Segar, in regard to maintaining city vehicles, we agree that it is a priority and the City does everything in its












Ms. Segar, in regard to maintaining city vehicles, we agree that it is a priority and the City does everything in its












COMMUNITY INFORMATION MEETING FOLLOW UP

March 2, 2012

COMMENT AUTHOR DATE LIKESThank you for holding a presentation meeting last night, especially at a time when more people are available to

attend. I must say I was a little disappointed in the turn out of residents, but maybe they are planning to attend

the night of the hearing. I appreciate the oportunity to gain some insight and information on the upcoming

budget!



THANK YOU

March 9, 2012

COMMENT AUTHOR DATE LIKESyeah!!!!!! 85 cent per $1000 increase in real estate taxes. yeah!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Sandy Wilson 3/11/2012 0

I have no confidence in the councils judgement in spending more of my hard earned money. Vote NO to

raising Taxes in Ankeny.Rodger Routh 3/12/2012 2

I want to thank you for hosting this forum as a chance for citizens to share their ideas with our local

government. Now that you have used this as a tool to gain input, I would like to see it continued each year.

I would challenge our Mayor and Council to read each posting from it, if they haven't already, and think

about what each citizen has said. There are many people in our community who shared their thoughts and

ideas because they care about Ankeny. It seems to me that we should these people to guide further

discussions and do it much earlier in the budgeting process. Has anyone thought of forming a citizen

committee to gain insight into what works well in the privaste sector that could be replicated in City

government? My company uses a sliding scale to determine how much an employee pays for health care,

the more you make, the more you contribute. That's just one idea, I'm sure there are many more in our

community. If people are willing to share ideas, why not use them to make our City better? Thanks again!


I hope there are other people that are paying attention to the over spending and over taxation of the

residents of this fine community. The latest increase and the one "proposed" for 2015 is a ridiculous

attempt to pay our way. Do we want Ankeny to be an example of fiscal responsibility or one "business as

usual". I guess by tonight's vote, we know where this town too is heading. I hope there is not one executive

in city government that asks for or accepts a pay raise, likened to what the Polk County Supervisors are

giving themselves. It is fiscal irresponsibility that is at the heart of the deepening divide in this country and

it is now directly on all our doorsteps. Thank to Councilmen Holm and McKenna for voting NO, sorry to see

others not as brave or bold!

James Leon

Machamer3/12/2012 0

This has to be the most fiscal neglience ever. Why on earth would any council raise taxes, except for

personal gain??? If the budget needs to be balanced, then be responsible citizens and civil servants and cut

spending or better yet liken yourselves to our great grandparents, boomers excluded as your generation

has led our future generations down a muddy road full of endless potholes. You need to learn how to save,

instead of spending in anxst as do other levels of gov't. I'm sure our local retailers will appreciate reducing

the local consumer spending. Most families understand how to balance a check register, its basic

economics. Raising property tax in a time when property values are in decline really should be construed as

a crime, for that matter maybe it is. Will be interesting to find out how many property tax appeals will be

made in the next year.

Dennis

Lucklow3/12/2012 0

Oh man. Our council guiding us with textbook American politics. Break the mold guys. It is a great

community. But do not continue to raise the bar at this pace. All of us who live here don't mind paying a

slight premium to do so. Our children enjoy state of the art facilities and we have great parks and roads

and services. But in the private sector we are not moving in the same direction. And haven't been for years.

The city needs more money this year than last? So does my household. City employees need a raise and

increase in benefits? So do my employees. The difference is that you can just take the money from us to

provide such things, I have to earn them. All the while you're taking. Property tax hike. Water/Sewer hike.

2% on the energy bills. Which will tick up to the cap of 5%, rest assured. What else are you trying to tax

while justifying it by calling it a "Fee". You may as well tack on a nickel to each gallon of gas sold in town.

We'll never notice. Figure it out guys. There is no other suburban community in central Iowa that is going

to "pass us up" if we freeze things for a couple years. This spend‐it‐or‐lose‐it mentality has to go. I have a

real estate client that has retired, an "empty nester", and he is moving out. Kids are grown, why in the

world would you live here unless you have the money to burn? I love this town. My businesses are here,

Justin Sykes 2/15/2012 0


BUDGET APPROVED

March 13, 2012

COMMENT AUTHOR DATE LIKESSpending Our money wisely gentle men? Rodger Routh 3/16/2012 0


TWITTER OVERVIEW

STATUS UPDATE DATE WRITTEN BY AUDIENCE SIZEWe've launched a new campaign to help close the gap between citizens and city council

‐ The Virtual Town Hall! ‐ http://tinyurl.com/7uunz931/4/2012 CityOfAnkeny 1201

RT @cityofankeny: We've launched a new campaign to help close the gap between

citizens and city council ‐ The Virtual Town Hall! ‐…1/4/2012 sleyster 252

.@sleyster Thanks for the RT, Sara. We're very excited about this campaign and think it

will be a great resource for you this budget season!1/4/2012 CityOfAnkeny 1201

There's a great article about our Virtual Town Hall campaign on @AnkenyPatch. Check it

out! ‐ 1/5/2012 CityOfAnkeny 1201

There will be a 2nd Virtual Town Hall post later today. You can read the first post here: ‐ 1/5/2012 CityOfAnkeny 1201

We've published our 2nd post in our Virtual Town Hall campaign, providing historical

context on budget decisions made in the last 3 years.1/5/2012 CityOfAnkeny 1201

Be sure to check it out on our Facebook page here: 1/5/2012 CityOfAnkeny 1201

The City of Ankeny is facing significant budget issues and we need your feedback! ‐

http://tinyurl.com/8yz7dpg #VirtualTownHall1/6/2012 CityOfAnkeny 1201

The City Council has a budget workshop next Monday. Learn more about the issues they

face! ‐ http://tinyurl.com/8yz7dpg #VirtualTownHall1/7/2012 CityOfAnkeny 1201

RT The City Council has a budget workshop next Monday. Learn more about the issues

they face! ‐ http://tinyurl.com/8yz7dpg #VirtualTownHall1/7/2012 AnkenyPatch 193

We are soliciting feedback regarding significant budget issues the City now faces. ‐


RT We are soliciting feedback regarding significant budget issues the City now faces. ‐

http://tinyurl.com/8yz7dpg #VirtualTownHall1/7/2012 JerrySelbher 26

Let us know your opinion regarding the Ankeny Capital Improvements Program! ‐


#Iowa RT @CityOfAnkeny: Let us know your opinion regarding the Ankeny Capital

Improvements Program! ‐ tinyurl.com/8yz7dpg #VirtualTownHall1/8/2012 TheNthGOP 509

Join the conversation in our most recent #VirtualTownHall posting! The City Council

needs your feedback! ‐ 1/9/2012 CityOfAnkeny 1201

Let the City Council know where you stand regarding Ankeny's Capital Improvements

Program. ‐ http://tinyurl.com/8yz7dpg #VirtualTownHall1/9/2012 CityOfAnkeny 1201

RT Let the City Council know where you stand regarding Ankeny's Capital Improvements

Program. ‐ http://tinyurl.com/8yz7dpg #VirtualTownHall1/9/2012 sleyster 252

We've published a follow‐up to our request for feedback through the Virtual Town Hall. ‐1/10/2012 CityOfAnkeny 1215

We recently published a follow‐up to the Virtual Town Hall. Check it out! ‐ 1/10/2012 CityOfAnkeny 1215

We've posted a new message as part of the Virtual Town Hall. You can read it here. ‐ 1/20/2012 CityOfAnkeny 1215

We've posted a new message as part of the Virtual Town Hall. You can read it here. ‐ 1/20/2012 AnkenyPatch 204

Be sure to check out our latest Virtual Town Hall post. We need your feedback! ‐ 1/21/2012 CityOfAnkeny 1215

Don't forget to check out the Virtual Town Hall. We posted something new there

yesterday! ‐ 1/21/2012 CityOfAnkeny 1215

Want to know what projects are on the slate for FY 2012 Capital Improvement

Program? Check the Virtual Town Hall!1/22/2012 CityOfAnkeny 1215

We've published new information to the Virtual Town Hall on our Facebook page! ‐ 1/27/2012 CityOfAnkeny 1241

Learn more about water, sewer and storm utilities being presented to the City Council

next Monday! ‐ 1/27/2012 CityOfAnkeny 1241

Check out the Virtual Town Hall on Facebook for budget considerations being presented

to the City Council! ‐1/28/2012 CityOfAnkeny 1241

We just published an update from last night's Council meeting. See what was discussed

in the Virtual Town Hall! ‐1/31/2012 CityOfAnkeny 1240

We just posted a new Virtual Town Hall note about the difference between city, school

and county tax revenue. ‐2/2/2012 CityOfAnkeny 1264


and county tax revenue. ‐2/12/2012 AnkenyPatch 230

POSTS ON TWITTER ‐ Updated 3/12/12

TWITTER OVERVIEW


and county tax revenue. ‐2/2/2012 CityOfAnkeny 1264

.@alcrim We'll be addressing your questions in the Virtual Town Hall on our Facebook

page. Not enough room to answer on Twitter! :)2/9/2012 CityOfAnkeny 1264

We've posted new information to the Virtual Town Hall about feedback we've received

to the proposed increase to sewer and water rates.2/9/2012 CityOfAnkeny 1264

To read our latest Virtual Town Hall post on our Facebook page, click here. ‐ 2/9/2012 CityOfAnkeny 1264

To read our latest Virtual Town Hall post on our Facebook page, click here. ‐ 2/9/2012 AnkenyPatch 230

We've posted an update to the Virtual Town Hall regarding Operating Funds and

Personnel. Read it here! ‐ 2/10/2012 CityOfAnkeny 1264

We just published an update to the Virtual Town Hall about last night's City Council

meeting. Read more here! ‐ http://tinyurl.com/7vcyakb2/14/2012 CityOfAnkeny 1273

Over 300 citizens have joined the conversation since we started the Virtual Town Hall in

January. Have you? ‐ 2/14/2012 CityOfAnkeny 1273

Over 300 citizens have joined the conversation since we started the Virtual Town Hall in

January. Have you? ‐ 2/14/2012 AnkenyPatch 233

We've posted new information to the Virtual Town Hall about next week's Annual

Budget Retreat. ‐ 2/17/2012 CityOfAnkeny 1273

We've posted new information to the Virtual Town Hall about next week's Annual

Budget Retreat. ‐ 2/17/2012 AnkenyPatch 233

Read the agenda for next week's Annual Budget Retreat in the Virtual Town Hall ‐ 2/17/2012 CityOfAnkeny 1273

We just published an update to the Virtual Town Hall regarding next week's City Council

Special Meeting. ‐ 3/9/2012 CityOfAnkeny 1313

Be sure to check out our Virtual Town Hall post before Monday's City Council Special

Meeting. ‐ 3/11/2012 CityOfAnkeny 1313

We've posted an update to the Virtual Town Hall in regards to last night's Council‐

approved FY 2013 budget. ‐ http://tinyurl.com/6mfr9ap3/13/2012 CityOfAnkeny 1320

We've posted an update to the Virtual Town Hall in regards to last night's Council‐

approved FY 2013 budget. ‐ http://tinyurl.com/6mfr9ap3/13/2012 AnkenyPatch 249

Have you been following our Virtual Town Hall posts on Facebook? If so, take a moment

to fill out this survey. ‐ http://tinyurl.com/7h82rg53/16/2012 CityOfAnkeny 1320

Have you been following our Virtual Town Hall posts on Facebook? If so, take a moment

to fill out this survey. ‐ http://tinyurl.com/7h82rg53/16/2012 AnkenyPatch 249

The City of Ankeny is soliciting feedback for their Virtual Town Hall campaign. ‐

http://tinyurl.com/7h82rg53/16/2012 CityOfAnkeny 1320

We're running a survey about our recently concluded Virtual Town Hall and would love

to get your feedback! ‐ http://tinyurl.com/8yuxkvo3/19/2012 CityOfAnkeny 1320

We're running a survey about our recently concluded Virtual Town Hall and would love

to get your feedback! ‐ http://tinyurl.com/8yuxkvo3/19/2012 AnkenyPatch 249

We need a few more responses for our Virtual Town Hall survey. Have you shared your

views yet? ‐ http://tinyurl.com/8yuxkvo3/20/2012 CityOfAnkeny 1320

We need a few more responses for our Virtual Town Hall survey. Have you shared your

views yet? ‐ http://tinyurl.com/8yuxkvo3/20/2012 AnkenyPatch 249

Before things get too busy this morning, please take a few minutes to answer our

Virtual Town Hall survey! ‐ http://tinyurl.com/8yuxkvo3/21/2012 CityOfAnkeny 1320

POTENTIAL TOTAL IMPRESSIONS 53245

Documents

FY2013 BUDGET: VIRTUAL TOWN HALL CAMPAIGNgsmcon.com/.../City-of-Ankeny-Virtual-Town-Hall-Report.pdf · 2020-01-06 · The FY 2013 Budget Virtual Town Hall campaign met the objective