The meeting began with public input, which saw Christopher Bartlett voicing his frustration over difficulties in filing a complaint against a code enforcement officer and Brian Dennis raising concerns about the city’s financial status, including the impact of lawsuits and the millage rate on citizens. The commission responded to Bartlett by providing the city manager’s contact information and agreeing that the manager would reach out to him.

Discussions then moved to the proposed budget for the upcoming fiscal year, with a focus on the order of presenting the proposed millage rate and the budget itself. The commission clarified that the discussion was about setting a preliminary rate rather than adopting a final one. Questions were raised about specific line items, such as the allocation for a “Get Out the Vote” campaign and advertising expenditures, prompting concerns about transparency and the clarity of budget information.

Further budget discussions revealed plans to add two new code officers, one for the Community Redevelopment Agency and another for general code enforcement, which would include weekend and evening hours. There was initial confusion about the relationship of this new position to the manager’s proposal for Public Works, but it was clarified that the position was separate and funded through the general fund. The commission also talked about the budget for equipment, uniforms, and training for these new officers.

The allocation of funds for special events came under scrutiny as the commission debated the addition of new events and the process for budgeting them. Commissioners questioned the rationale behind certain budget allocations and discussed the need for uniformity in budget adjustments across different events. Concerns were also raised about law enforcement funding, specifically the number of detectives, sergeants, and regular officers, and the proportionality of the allocation.

The most notable issue revolved around the proposed millage rate for ad valorem taxes. A substitute resolution was introduced, and after some debate, the commission voted in favor of setting the preliminary rate at 9.163 mills. A public hearing to consider both the proposed millage rate and the budget was scheduled for September 10, 2024, at 6 p.m.

The commission exercised its inquiry and investigation authority with a resolution that required the city manager to provide written findings on several issues, including accidents involving city vehicles, major crimes notification procedures, and the facts surrounding the termination of city park employees. The commission set a deadline of August 26 at 6 p.m. for the city manager to respond to the inquiry.

Additionally, the commission addressed second reading ordinances that were time-sensitive, such as matters concerning the Armory and the comprehensive plan, opting to postpone these items to the next meeting on September 11.