The council’s deliberation on the 2026 budget options emerged as a focal point, with two distinct proposals laid out. The first option suggested a $3.8 million levy with a 5.05% increase, utilizing approximately $212,000 from the fund balance. This would maintain an unreserved fund balance of 50.87%. The second option proposed no increase in the tax levy, instead drawing $395,000 from the fund balance, reducing it to 47.20%. The council weighed the long-term ramifications of these choices, particularly their impact on the 2027 budget, which would require a projected levy increase of 10.93% with the second option, compared to a 5.06% increase with the first.

A council member voiced concerns about relying on one-time funding sources, such as the anticipated $165,000 from an EDA property sale, for long-term budgetary decisions. This concern was balanced against expected reductions in debt payments starting in 2029, projected to save over $200,000 annually, which could stabilize future budgets. The liquor store fund balance of approximately $166,000 was also considered as a potential backup, though reliance on this revenue stream was cautioned against due to sales volatility.

The infrastructure discussions focused on a crooked relief cut in a curb, raising questions about aesthetic and structural issues. Suggestions for surface-level repairs were met with skepticism regarding their effectiveness. The city had fully paid the contractor, and accountability was emphasized due to a previous acknowledgment of improper work. The urgency of resolving the issue was underscored by plans for a new concrete driveway requiring a properly aligned curb. The council agreed that the contractor should assess and propose remediation options.

In a unanimous decision, the council passed an amendment to Chapter 160, adjusting fees to align with current standards. Following this, the council addressed the cannabis micro business registration for Limeline LLC, resolving an address change issue and encouraging community assistance in correcting address inaccuracies on platforms like Google.

The meeting also covered the extension of the Memorandum of Agreement for take-home police vehicles, which was seen as beneficial for streamlining maintenance and reducing costs. Discussions included mileage allowances for officers outside a designated radius, the transition of vehicle maintenance to the public works department, and bulk oil purchasing for cost efficiency.

Additionally, an equipment addition for the mechanic bay was approved, promising long-term benefits by eliminating external costs for tire services. The council discussed the potential for city staff, rather than audit firms, to prepare financial documents internally, despite concerns about staffing feasibility. The audit engagement letter was approved.

The council reviewed a contract for police record services, with cost savings offsetting the expenses due to a vacancy. This contract was approved unanimously. In terms of human resources, discussions on earned sick and safe time policies were tabled for further review, highlighting the need for legal clarity and alignment with ongoing union negotiations.