During the meeting, the executive director outlined the specifics of the budget, explaining that the total amount levied would be $259,300. The commissioners discussed the budget’s alignment with inflationary increases and confirmed that the current rate of inflation is approximately 3%. The executive director assured that there are no extraordinary inflationary changes within this budget, although other city budgets might present different scenarios.

One of the commissioners raised questions about potential limits on the levy increase. The executive director clarified that while there are regulatory caps based on the city’s market value, the current levy remains well below those limits. This discussion prompted the commissioners to consider the implications of the budget on future opportunities, ultimately affirming that while the 2025 budget is set, adjustments could be made for subsequent years.

The commissioners also focused on the meeting schedule for 2025, contemplating whether to keep the 7:30 a.m. Thursday morning slot or make changes. Various options were discussed, including the potential for earlier start times or aligning meetings with city council sessions. However, the consensus leaned towards maintaining staggered schedules to ensure adequate preparation time and to avoid the exhaustion associated with back-to-back meetings. The executive director collected feedback and will consult with the remaining commissioners before finalizing the schedule.

In other matters, the chair encouraged the community to support local businesses at 50th and France and 44th and France, particularly during ongoing construction that has impacted sales. The reminder highlighted the HRA’s role in economic development and the importance of community patronage to sustain local commerce.