The council’s discussion of the citizens’ petition to amend the city charter to limit tax levies to 3% emerged as the most pressing topic. The petition, submitted by Ed Bates and verified for sufficiency by the city administrator, faced legal scrutiny when the city attorney, Chelsea, advised that such a limitation could not legally be placed on the ballot. The attorney explained that authority over levy limits resides with the state legislature, not the city. Even with provisions for the city council to seek voter approval for exceeding the 3% cap, Chelsea warned that such a measure would likely be overturned by the attorney general. This caution was based on a precedent from 1982 when similar limitations were ruled illegal.

The council was divided on how to proceed, with some members advocating for a second legal opinion and others wary of advancing a potentially unconstitutional measure. Chelsea emphasized her legal duty to provide accurate information. Despite differing opinions, the consensus leaned towards following the attorney’s guidance to prevent legal complications, with a motion to acknowledge the petition while denying the amendment from being put to a vote sparking further discussion.

In related business, the council addressed the need for IT service management. Austin Sha of 3S Design LLC and Ted Saxton of Smalltown Tech presented their firms as potential partners for managing the city’s IT needs. Sha proposed a managed IT approach with a full-time on-site employee, while Saxton offered a free initial assessment to help define the city’s requirements for a formal Request for Proposal (RFP). The council expressed urgency in advertising for a replacement information systems administrator, with discussions on whether to hire internally or seek external professional services.

The council also navigated significant procurement decisions, notably the replacement of the overhead door for the Vactor garage. Faced with a new Vactor truck that could not fit in existing facilities, the city considered two bids: a $16,545 standard garage door from UPN North Builders and a $33,718.84 bifold door from Meyers Glass. Despite recognizing the latter’s potential longevity, the council leaned towards the cost-effective option from UPN North Builders, ultimately passing a motion to proceed with this procurement by a 4-1 vote.

Budget and finance discussions included the approval of a Cassell multiple module add-on for accounts payable and payroll, deemed essential for financial management. The council also sanctioned weekly budget finance committee meetings starting October 28, 2025, with adjustments for municipal holidays.

Community concerns about financial oversight were vocalized during the open forum. Rhonda Benedict criticized the council’s perceived unresponsiveness and tax increases. Another resident, Reme, echoed these sentiments, questioning the appropriateness of spending amid financial struggles. Mary Wilson sought clarity on the approval of a new pavilion at Smoky Bear Park, requesting to view the design. These exchanges highlighted the community’s demand for greater transparency and accountability in the council’s financial decisions.