The budget workshop began with a presentation of the second draft of the fiscal year 2024-2025 budget by the city manager. The draft budget included projections for revenues and expenses for the downtown, South Historic, and North Historic districts, as well as ongoing and proposed projects. A point of discussion was the budget variances and the challenges property owners face in accessing grants. One commissioner expressed concerns about reaching out to property owners to assist in property improvements, citing the old Calvary Church as an example. The city manager explained the efforts made to publicize the Building Improvement Grant, including mailing out postcards to those within the CRA District. It was requested that everyone review the CRA plan to contribute ideas for budget allocation.

Public comments highlighted frustrations with blighted city-owned properties in the CRA, the absence of a CRA director, and unfulfilled promises such as flower pots for the Aelia festival. The need for better maintenance in the downtown area and stronger code violations enforcement was also brought to the forefront. The commission discussed the difficulty in ensuring that out-of-town property owners receive important communications and the need for individual outreach, especially regarding properties like the former Mount Taber church, which is undergoing the code enforcement process.

Transportation was another focus, with the commission debating the viability of funding additional solutions or incentivizing alternative options. The importance of understanding why a service like R Solutions did not receive state funding was considered, along with the potential environmental impact of transportation services. The commissioners discussed targeting individuals facing code violations for the Home Improvement Program, enhancing outreach with decorative lighting, and funding public art and historic kiosks to boost heritage tourism.

Mental health services were a prominent topic, with the commission deliberating on how to provide such services effectively. Suggestions included utilizing space in the Jenkins facility for counseling and collaborating with existing organizations. The possibility of funding mental health programs through ARPA was considered, along with supporting initiatives like bike patrols, dog parks, and the hardening of the Price Martin building.

The commission also contemplated the allocation of approximately $50,000 for projects akin to special events. Discussions included the introduction of electric charging stations, fiber optic access, and the legislative aid position. Sidewalk and pavement management, neighborhood crime watch programs, and the potential for a building swap were also on the agenda, with the commission emphasizing the need for public input and careful evaluation of any decisions.

Finally, the commission addressed the due diligence period for the River Center, expressing eagerness to obtain assessment information before a deadline. An emergency meeting was suggested for mid-July to expedite the process. The allocation of funds from liens was discussed, with the commission seeking clarity on the utilization of these funds and considering a programming budget for the community.