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COMMUNITYGROWTH <br /> I N S T I T U T E <br /> Exper7s in Small Town PlannitW <br /> August 25, 2008 <br /> City of Pequot Lakes <br /> 4638 County Road 11 <br /> Pequot Lakes,MN 55340 <br /> Re: 2009 Planning Budget <br /> Dear Mayor and City Council: <br /> We know that 2009 is going to be a difficult year to budget for budgeting. While property values <br /> have increased robustly in recent years, in this past year a number of properties have actually <br /> declined in value. With other properties in foreclosure or tax delinquency, there is some uncertainty <br /> as we enter budget season. <br /> At Cominunity Growth Institute,we have had to absorb rising fuel and supply expenses, as well as <br /> significant increases in medical insurance. We've had to work very hard to keep our costs under <br /> control, while maintaining the same level of quality and service. Looking ahead to next year, we <br /> expect to experience the same budget challenges you are facing. <br /> We value our relationship and are committed to working together to control costs. For 2009, we are <br /> not going to request a rate increase or adjustment to our planning services contract and would <br /> simply offer to extend our current contract an additional twelve months. We are going to do what it <br /> takes to make that work for us. We hope it eases your burden during this budget season. <br /> We are entering the sixth year after our last Comprehensive Plan update and are scheduled for a <br /> review. The work we did on the last plan and the work we have performed in the interim means <br /> that our effort here is going to be a fraction of what was required in 2003 and 2004. We are <br /> proposing a budget of$5,000 for this work. <br /> We are in our eighth year providing planning and zoning services to small cities and towns <br /> throughout Minnesota. The service we provide is not only lower in cost than in-house staff, our <br /> approach provides you with the expertise and capabilities of an entire planning department. We are <br /> proud of what we do and enjoy working with you. <br /> Please contact us if you have any questions or concerns. <br /> Sincerely, <br /> COMM®UNNITY GROWTH INSTITUTE <br /> L . <br /> Charles Marohn,PE <br /> President,Planner,Professional Engineer <br /> 14084 Baxter Drive, Suite 7 1 Baxter, Minnesota 56425 1 866.900.3064 1 www.communitygrowth.com <br />