During the meeting, the city manager outlined the specific reasons for the millage rate increase. The additional funds will support capital projects such as a $2 million investment in parks, including the rehabilitation of City Center field, Causeway Park, and All Children’s Park. Other significant allocations include approximately $1 million for a police generator, half a million dollars for the Main Street Bridge, and over $300,000 for a new phone system. Furthermore, the budget includes a few thousand dollars for the elevation and demolition of houses in flooded areas.

Operational costs also contribute to the budget increase. These include contracts for personnel wage increases, new positions like two community service officers in the police department, and insurance increases in health, workers’ compensation, and property casualty. Additionally, vendor contracts and about $300,000 for sidewalks and street maintenance are part of the budget.

Council members expressed general agreement and satisfaction with the budget, emphasizing the need to be proactive in maintaining the city’s infrastructure to avoid future problems. One member highlighted that the city has kept its budget increase to 4.24%, lower than many peer municipalities, which averaged a 9.47% increase.

Public comments were also heard, with one resident stressing the importance of ensuring the city has the financial tools to support and retain its employees. The resident emphasized the need for incentives to attract and keep skilled workers, especially as many are nearing retirement.

The council then moved to approve Resolution 24-38, which adopts the final millage rate. The public had no further comments on this resolution, and the council members unanimously approved it.

Following the millage rate discussion, the council approved the final operating budget for fiscal year 2025, which includes all operating and capital costs across various funds. The total adopted budget amounts to approximately $79.7 million.