A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to discussions on the feasibility and funding of a new police station, as the need for an updated facility was made apparent. Council members explored different construction options, such as renovating the existing building, constructing a new annex, and building a completely new facility at various locations. The possibility of a public-private partnership (P3) was considered, which could involve adding affordable housing on top of the police station. There were debates on whether to sell the existing property or enter into a land lease, with concerns raised about maintaining control over the property’s future use.

The council members also examined the option of isolating the IT component of the general fund into its own fund to ensure proper funding and accounting for it. Additionally, there was a debate about re-examining the options and the price point for a new standalone facility, with some members advocating for a 15-year space need instead of the previously suggested 40 years. The potential of modifying the procurement system to expedite processes was discussed, including the use of piggyback contracts for maintenance and the possibility of rewarding top performers.

In terms of the city’s financial health, the council discussed the 2024-2025 budget and April update. Staff presented financial projections, noting a $1.7 million increase in total revenues compared to the previous year, yet expressing concerns about the accuracy of these projections due to economic fluctuations. The estimated ending balance for the current fiscal year stood at $16.9 million, with challenges and uncertainties highlighted for the upcoming year. Discussions on expenses included budgeting for general government salaries, police and fire salaries, pension plans, and the possibility of performance-based pay for government employees. The council also addressed health insurance projections and the impact of rising costs and delays in acquiring necessary equipment and vehicles.

Furthermore, the council considered transferring go Bond Village savings to the operational savings, which could yield an additional $30,000 in operational income to the general fund. There was a discussion about the potential for a millage rate increase, negotiating police and fire contracts, and the necessity to wrap up the process before the fiscal year’s end. The council also contemplated the possibility of a projected operational loss offset by transfers from utility funds and plans to reassess those numbers based on potential inflation.

Council members discussed the need to harden the Reserve account, outstanding FEMA reimbursements, and the timeliness of procurements. There was interest in further exploration of procurement methods such as CM at risk, design-build, and hard bid, and their respective pros and cons. Additionally, the council addressed the management of the construction of a new Clubhouse in Mayfair and the use of the CM at risk approach. They reviewed the cost estimate for building the new 29,000 square foot facility and sought benchmark information for similar projects. Discussions also included the scalability and future expansion of this project.

Strategies for addressing the projected deficit were also on the table, including the possibility of issuing debt or pursuing a General Obligation Bond, with the acknowledgment of the need for a comprehensive strategy and effective messaging to address the lower funding amount and engage the community. The council deliberated the need for public hearings and community awareness initiatives and the timeline for making decisions in preparation for the November ballot.