Public Works Director Wayne Sandberg presented a detailed overview of the Public Works budget. He highlighted the department’s mission and values and underscored the challenges posed by a decline in highway state revenue over the past five years. This year alone, actual revenues fell approximately $100,000 short of projections. For the 2025 budget, a 5.5% increase in highway state aid is anticipated, though Sandberg acknowledged potential revenue shortfalls.

One notable issues discussed was the sharp rise in the cost of materials for road maintenance. For instance, the price of salt has risen significantly, from $84 per ton in 2023 to an estimated $111 per ton in 2025. This increase, attributed to inflationary pressures, has necessitated careful budget adjustments. The department plans to save costs by reducing reliance on service contracts and bringing some services, such as landscaping, in-house. The overall operating revenue for Public Works in 2025 is projected at just over $34 million, with property tax levy being the largest funding source.

Sandberg detailed the diverse revenue sources that comprise the operating budget, including miscellaneous revenue from various fees and intergovernmental revenue linked to highway state aid and park operations. A notable proposal in the budget is the addition of a new position for a water resources engineer to address increased regulatory requirements concerning surface water management.

The council also discussed the importance of maintaining the county’s fleet, which includes over 650 pieces of equipment with a replacement value of $57 million. Concerns were raised about the aging fleet, with 39% of it being over a decade old, leading to increased maintenance costs. The proposed budget for fleet replacement in 2025 amounts to $1.7 million, with $1 million sourced from the wheelage tax.

Another topic was the lack of a state bonding bill, which has historically been a primary funding source for the Parks Capital program. The absence of this funding creates a substantial gap in the five-year plan for capital projects. The Commissioner noted that state bonding has been crucial since the 1970s, and its absence will necessitate adjustments in project timelines and scope.

The council revisited the Transportation Advancement Account (TAA), which is funded by revenues from the retail delivery fee, Metro sales tax, and auto parts sales tax. The TAA funds are mandated by law to support active transportation, infrastructure rehabilitation, and transit expansion. For 2025, the budget includes funding for two new full-time positions: a water resources engineer and a regional rail planner. These roles are expected to enhance the department’s capabilities in surface water management and transit planning.

Specific construction projects slated for 2025 were discussed, including paving and infrastructure improvements on Highway 5 and the repaving of the Gassa 13 trail. Safety enhancements on Cassassas 15, a busy corridor without center turn lanes, were also emphasized, with future plans to expand it to a four-lane highway.

The Metro Gold Line project was another focal point, with civil construction on track for substantial completion by the end of the year and an opening date set for March 2025. The county’s financial contribution to the project, primarily funded through transportation sales tax, required internal borrowing to finalize cost-sharing responsibilities.

Concerns were raised about the utilization of two transit centers and the need for staff to monitor their maintenance and investment. Potential upcoming service modifications by Metro Transit were also discussed, which could affect the efficiency of these centers.

The council expressed optimism about potential renewed transit routes, especially with new housing developments near the Newport Transit Center. A comprehensive transit needs study was highlighted as important to ensure routes and services align with community needs.

Budgetary discussions revealed a proposed $35 million budget, with the property tax levy contributing approximately $6 million. There was clarification regarding the reallocation of previously earmarked debt service funds into cash for projects.