February 13, 2013

Hon. Representative Paul Davis

Room 359-West, Kansas Statehouse

300 S.W. 10^th Avenue

Topeka, KS  66612

Re:  House Bill 2047

Dear Representative Davis:

The City of Lawrence is opposed to House Bill 2047 as it is currently written.  The City of Lawrence and the League of Kansas Municipalities believe that the existing budget process is open and transparent.  Current law requires the publication of the City’s budget, a public hearing, and the passage of an ordinance in the event that the City seeks to bring in more revenue than the preceding year.  This bill, as written, is attempting to fix a problem that does not exist.

Some language in the bill as originally drafted could be interpreted as a complete limitation on a city’s ability to increase ad valorem taxes.  We strongly oppose such a limitation.  If the bill moves forward, we support the League of Kansas Municipalities’ recommendation that a declaratory statement be added to the bill to clarify that cities can increase their ad valorem taxes if the governing body approves such increase by a majority vote and that the vote is published.

We urge you to not pass HB 2047 as it is written.  If you have further questions regarding the City’s position on this bill, please contact City Manager David Corliss at (785) 832-3400.

Sincerely,

Robert J. Schumm

Mayor

c:       City Commission

          David L. Corliss, City Manager