The committee deliberated on the need to adjust water and sewer rates, which have not kept pace with inflation. The proposed rate adjustments aim to ensure funding for infrastructure projects, with the goal of keeping rates below the Environmental Protection Agency’s affordability threshold. Concerns about the long period since the last adjustments of impact fees, which could have recouped costs for necessary projects, were raised. An increase in fees based on meter size for new multifamily buildings was proposed, acknowledging the revenue left untapped for nearly three decades.

The committee emphasized the political sensitivity of rate increases, particularly during election cycles, while underscoring the need to maintain the city’s creditworthiness and infrastructure integrity. A timeline for implementing rate increases was proposed, starting immediately, to address inflationary pressures and prevent further deferrals of crucial projects. Clear communication with residents was deemed essential to justify the increases, with potential public opposition anticipated due to rising costs.

The meeting also addressed the urgent funding needs for bicycle lane improvements as outlined in the Bicycle Pedestrian Master Plan. The Vice Mayor highlighted the urgency of addressing these improvements, including restriping and repainting bike lanes, enhancing citywide drainage, and purchasing solar-powered electronic speed feedback devices. The estimated cost for refurbishing existing bike lanes is approximately $375,000, which is currently unfunded in the budget, necessitating either an amendment or inclusion in the following year’s budget.

The conversation underscored the broader implications of maintaining city infrastructure amidst ongoing capital projects, emphasizing the necessity of proactive maintenance. The committee considered creating a policy requiring utility companies to repave entire lanes post-excavation. The importance of addressing maintenance proactively was reiterated, particularly in relation to major city events where roadway safety is critical.

The committee also addressed the challenges of balancing ongoing maintenance with future capital projects, highlighting streets like Washington Avenue. The administration was urged to consistently move projects forward to alleviate current maintenance issues.

Another topic was the potential acquisition of the long-abandoned Roosevelt Theater and adjacent properties along the 41st Street Corridor. Appraised at approximately $6.15 million, the committee expressed skepticism about purchasing the property due to the substantial investment required beyond the initial purchase price. The possibility of engaging in a public-private partnership was considered more viable, with a focus on enhancing pedestrianism and supporting neighboring businesses to revitalize the area.

Public comments were invited, with community activist Robin Jacobs advocating for the site’s acquisition as a cultural hub, envisioning it as a multi-use space for arts and education. However, financial constraints were a critical barrier, with the committee ultimately recommending against purchasing the property and instead exploring street-level activation opportunities.

Parking issues in the South of Fifth neighborhood were also discussed, with concerns over high employee turnover due to parking difficulties. Two parking solutions were proposed: utilizing the South Point Elementary parking lot through a joint use agreement and the Fifth and Alton parking garage. Both options aim to provide affordable parking solutions for restaurant employees, acknowledging their role in the local economy.

The committee further explored funding mechanisms for affordable housing and private property adaptation programs. A proposal to use cash flows, potentially through bonding, was discussed to secure immediate funds for larger projects. The importance of leveraging financial opportunities from the convention center hotel development to address affordable housing needs was emphasized, with suggestions to consider securitizing future cash flows for upfront capital.