The central issue of the meeting was the proposed increases in water, wastewater, and reclaimed water fees. Initially communicated as a 40% hike to residents, the council explored reducing this increase to 20% to alleviate the financial burden on the community. Detailed projections estimated deficits for varying rate increases: $5.6 million for a 10% increase, $4.3 million for 15%, and $3.2 million for a 20% increase. To manage these deficits, the council discussed freezing two positions, transferring the City Engineer to Community Development, and cutting various capital and operating expenses.

A focus was placed on the water plant infrastructure assessment, deemed essential for identifying maintenance needs across the city’s water facilities. The Public Services Director noted that internal staff would conduct the assessment, saving costs but potentially straining existing resources. Concerns were raised about freezing key positions, particularly the Assistant Director of Public Services, due to the lack of succession planning and the risks associated with losing senior personnel without adequate backups.

The council also addressed the historical context and implications of a consent order related to the wastewater management system. The West plant’s capacity was insufficient, leading to the construction of a new East plant with a five-million-gallon capacity. Discussions included the need to separate reuse water from stormwater to ensure compliance with regulations, with ongoing projects reflecting these requirements in past budgets.

Pension adjustments were another key topic, focusing on recommendations to lower the assumed rate of return gradually from 7% to 6.75%. This adjustment would impact future contributions and funding status, requiring updated budgetary figures to accurately reflect savings and ensure future budgets do not overstate financial projections.

Staffing concerns within the Public Services department were revisited, highlighting the workload of the assistant director and the potential for overburdening staff. A proposal to return a previously absent position to the budget was discussed, acknowledging that while the headcount remained, funding had not been allocated.

The council deliberated on the necessity of various positions within departments, with urgency expressed for addressing the assistant public service director position and water plant infrastructure assessment. A potential $1.2 million difference in fees between different utility rate scenarios led to suggestions for a 21.5% increase to cover essential expenses.

Regarding capital projects, the Cleveland site plan nearing completion faced a $200,000 reduction to accommodate budget constraints. The Golden Gem Pond repair, with an initial phase cost of $950,000 and total estimates ranging from $2 million to $4 million, was discussed without identifying a clear funding source.

Asbestos pipe removal and replacement were highlighted, with a total estimated cost of $10.6 million. The first phase, less than a mile, had an estimated cost of approximately $14 million. The loss of a $1 million grant for the first phase of this work added to the financial uncertainty.

The council also considered a new summer camp program, with a proposed cost of approximately $104,000 to serve at-risk youth. This program aims to provide athletic and educational activities in collaboration with Orange County Public Schools, emphasizing the need for structured policies to ensure accountability and effective use of funds. The potential to hire a contractor to administer the grant was discussed to minimize strain on city staff.

Budget discussions included a proposed $100,000 allocation for nonprofit sponsorship to provide essential services for youth and seniors. The council emphasized strict accountability and oversight, with participating organizations adhering to reporting guidelines.

Another item was the proposed upgrades to the pool at Camp Wewa. The budget for pool deck upgrades was reduced from $200,000 to $75,000, with the intention to allocate funds solely for design work. The necessity of a new pool was debated, considering the aging and leaking existing facility. Some members supported starting with a smaller budget for design, allowing for community input and gradual exploration of what a new facility could entail.

The council discussed the status of a 501(c)(3) designation for Main Street Apopka, with an update provided by Caitlyn from Main Street. The designation was anticipated to be addressed by October 1st, with community support emphasized and retroactive eligibility for tax write-offs.

Personnel matters included the elimination of the transportation coordinator position and the potential impact on city operations. The mayor proposed a one-time $1,000 salary increase for police department personnel to remain competitive amidst rising salaries in neighboring jurisdictions. The police department faced recruitment challenges, with 22 vacancies expected by October 1.