A significant portion of the meeting addressed the proposed budget and tax levy for the 2026 fiscal year. The council presented a budget with total expenditures set at $2,181,448 and a general levy of $1,643,616, resulting in a tax rate of 43.9%, a decrease from the previous year’s rate of 44.8%. Despite the reduction, residents expressed dissatisfaction with rising taxes and the potential impact on their cost of living. Steven Norland, a resident, highlighted these concerns, recounting the sharp increase in his taxes over the decades. He emphasized the burden this placed on long-term residents and urged the council to consider the town’s affordability.

Another important topic was the budget’s response to infrastructure and service demands, which included a notable increase in the community’s capital improvement plan by $262,000. This adjustment aimed to address long-term infrastructure needs with input from community groups and department heads. Additionally, the council discussed a significant rise in the city’s tax capacity, projecting a future increase in building permits as new housing and commercial projects develop.

The council debated the appropriate level of salary increases for the city administrator, Jason. The discussion revolved around various proposed raises, with one participant advocating for a combined 6% increase, incorporating both merit and cost-of-living adjustments. However, the proposal faced resistance from those who felt it was not aligned with increases offered to other city employees. Concerns were raised about maintaining equity among staff while recognizing the unique responsibilities of the city administrator’s role.

The conversation highlighted differing perspectives on financial rewards and performance metrics. Some members argued for consistency in salary raises across all city employees, while others emphasized the importance of recognizing the city administrator’s contributions. The meeting concluded with a compromise on a more conservative increase, aligning with the broader city employee adjustments.

Property assessments and their effects on taxation were another focal point. Residents like Patricia Shields voiced concerns over the impact of nearby developments on property values. The council clarified that assessments fall under county jurisdiction, advising residents to engage in the county’s Board of Equalization meetings for appeals.

The council also addressed staffing concerns and the potential merging of city positions to enhance efficiency. The proposal to combine the financial and administrative assistant roles was met with skepticism, citing previous financial management issues and the risk of overloading staff. Discussions revealed a broader challenge of balancing budget constraints with adequate staffing to support city growth.

Furthermore, the council explored the implications of a city-wide wage study to establish a step pay program. The study, budgeted at $20,000, aims to guide future hiring and turnover.

The council acknowledged the need for improved communication with the community.