The council’s decision to approve the preliminary 2025 property tax levy and budget emerged as the most issue discussed. The levy increase was set at 12%, amounting to a total of $48,815,550. This figure includes an 8% rise in the general fund, translating to roughly $32,977. Specific levies for debt and park referenda contributed to the overall increase, with the park referendum debt alone accounting for 2.4% of the total. Key budget drivers were highlighted, such as the city’s growing demands and the addition of six full-time firefighters, which impacted the fire department’s budget. The police department also saw an increase with the addition of a cadet funded by a $50,000 training grant.

Julie Stall, who led the budget presentation, emphasized that the preliminary budget would set the amounts communicated to property owners in November. She clarified that while the levy could be decreased after this point, it could not be increased. The conversation around the budget also addressed a cost-of-living adjustment of 3% for wages and a 3.3% rise in overall general fund expenditures. Notably, the budget was structured without utilizing any fund balance reserves, maintaining a high fund balance ratio projected to be 48.5% by the end of 2025.

A council member sought clarification on changes since the previous work session, prompting Stall to explain adjustments, including an increased transfer from the liquor fund and a withdrawal from debt service reserves. These measures contributed to a reduced levy request, amounting to a $700,000 decrease from the initial proposal. Some council members raised concerns about the high levy, noting that residents were already struggling with rising living costs. However, the necessity of investing in public services was acknowledged, and the resolution to adopt the preliminary 2025 property tax levy and budget was ultimately approved. A public hearing on the matter is scheduled for December 2, 2024.

In addition to the budget discussions, Parks and Recreation Director Joe Macy presented his first quarterly report in this role, providing an update on various projects and initiatives. Macy detailed the ongoing construction of Grand Prairie Park, noting that significant soil corrections and grading had already been completed. The installation of the grandstand building footings was expected in mid-September, followed by the field support building in mid-October. Staff had undergone necessary training for the splash pad, with certifications needing renewal every five years.

Macy also discussed the planning and design efforts for Voyager Park, a new neighborhood park set to begin construction in 2025. Proposed amenities for Voyager Park include a small sledding hill, a shelter, a playground, and a half basketball court. Additionally, Macy highlighted the importance of staff familiarization with new park facilities to better assist residents with inquiries and reservations.

Park maintenance activities were outlined, noting support for 224 shelter rentals and 37 rentals at the John Henon Pavilion over the summer. Plans to enhance trash and recycling receptacles, improve parking control measures, and upgrade an ADA access ramp were underway to address increased park usage. Summer operations were busy, with staff maintaining approximately 101 athletic fields and facilitating numerous tournaments and special events, including Pana Prog and the Fourth of July fireworks.

Recreation programs saw a total of 3,383 registrations for 27 new programs, with popular offerings like the Rev Sports program and tennis and pickleball lessons. The Puppet Wagon program attracted over 3,000 participants, and nature programs at the Environmental Learning Center experienced a 35% increase in registrations compared to the previous year. Marketing efforts for the Environmental Learning Center achieved over 26,000 views in its second month, targeting individuals aged 30 and older.

Macy shifted focus to the art center, where the “Live at the Lake” concert series ran for 12 weeks, featuring 24 performance groups and 15 food vendors. A successful test run for beer and wine sales during the event was noted, with intentions to continue this practice. The art center reported 30 new programs and an increase in participant registrations, largely due to the availability of the Fine Arts Building.

The meeting also included a public hearing on the adoption of assessments for unpaid special charges, led by Julie Stall. She provided an overview of the assessment process, noting that it mitigates losses due to potential bankruptcies. The certification process was moved up by a month, resulting in a larger number of utility customers receiving notices. This year, certified accounts totaled $97,300, with residents having until October 3 to pay the assessments without incurring interest, although a $50 administration fee would still apply. The hearing received no public comments and was closed unanimously.