A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to exploring the implications of a local option sales tax, which could provide much-needed funding for city park upgrades. The parks commission advocated for the tax, emphasizing its potential to generate substantial revenue, a large part of which would be contributed by visitors. This proposal was underscored by the urgency of adopting resolutions by January to facilitate a public vote in November. Mark Froehle expressed strong support for the initiative, noting the increase in sales tax revenues and advocating for its potential benefits in sustaining city parks.

Budget discussions also revealed a projected 8.63% increase in the police department’s budget, primarily attributed to a five-year capital improvement plan and escalating costs for equipment and repairs, especially radios. Rising 911 call volumes, expected to surge from 80 to 700 calls this year, were a key factor in justifying this budget expansion. The department emphasized the necessity of these increases to adequately support their growing operational demands.

In addition to the police budget, the council reviewed financial plans for other city departments. Brian, identified as a department head, detailed his cautious approach to the 2026 budget, projecting revenues at $4,590,000 against expenditures of $4,576,000. He highlighted the importance of basing budget considerations on actual previous year numbers and expressed optimism for a successful fiscal year, contingent on summer sales performance.

Chief Samansky presented a modest budget proposal, similar to the prior year, but flagged the need for finalizing new officer wages and acquiring a squad car. He also discussed the integration of new technology, such as a firewall, and considered grant funding opportunities to offset costs for flock safety cameras.

The council also reviewed a flat budget proposal from a city department manager, indicating an 8.18% overall increase, accounting for professional service fees and training costs. This plan included potential allocations for permitting software and strategies to transfer unused healthcare funds into capital reserves, preparing for future needs.

Attention was drawn to infrastructure projects, with discussions on anticipated modifications to the 2027 road bond, focusing on recently completed paving work in residential areas. The council considered removing these areas from bond considerations due to completed work, while planning for long-term durability in resort areas. The sewer department’s budget appeared stable, with a minimal 0.41% operational cost increase, and discussions touched on potential funding for a new lift station, estimated at half a million dollars.

The meeting also covered road maintenance plans, highlighting a potential $2.3 million bond for 2027. South Clark Lake Road, a shared responsibility with Lake Edward Township, was identified for maintenance, with the possibility of a simple mill and overlay contingent on cost-sharing discussions.