One notable topics was the potential reclassification of dispatchers and the contractually mandated wage increase for police officers. The Police Chief highlighted the necessity for salary and benefits adjustments, as well as an increased overtime budget. A request was made to double the budget for the Marine unit. The decrease in red light camera revenues was addressed with a call for a deeper understanding of the underlying causes.

Staffing numbers and salary increments for employees were also critical points of discussion. The council weighed the addition of corporal positions within the police department and the increased costs of medical supplies due to the transition to Advanced Life Support (ALS) services. The fire department’s budget included shared expenses and the introduction of a part-time fire inspector position.

The building department’s budget was proposed to increase by 38%, contrasting with a decrease in the budget for code enforcement. The council considered creating a hybrid position that would combine building inspector and code enforcement duties. This move was debated in the context of addressing staffing shortages and the importance of succession planning. Additionally, the need for revenue generation through building permits to cover departmental costs was emphasized.

The council discussed the allocation of funds for the General Administration fund and Public Health services, including a 10% contribution towards a CRA coordinator resiliency officer position. The potential impact of increased involvement in lobbying efforts on securing state and federal funding was contemplated. Concerns were raised regarding the budget for transitioning to a new financial package and the accuracy of retirement contributions.

The City Attorney’s budget was examined, with discussions on whether operational changes could reduce costs without affecting effectiveness. The idea of hiring a full-time attorney versus the current arrangement with a firm was debated, considering the potential increase in spending. The possibility of a diversion program to alleviate code enforcement case costs was also brought up.

A point of contention arose around the billing process and accounting practices, with council members advocating for more detailed invoicing, especially for code enforcement cases. The potential implementation of a magistrate system was discussed as a means to reduce attorney costs. Technology upgrades were addressed, with a decision to look for cost-effective solutions instead of an expensive upgrade to the current archiving system.

Financial matters extended to the review of professional services budgets, including funds for a lobbyist and the legality of providing Christmas gift certificates to employees. The council also analyzed stormwater utility expenses and the need for adjustments to account for parks utilities being charged to a different fund.

Public works topics included the necessity for ongoing animal control contracts, refuse pickup costs, and solid waste assessments. The council also discussed financial contingencies related to the CRA Tiff share and the impact of an increasing tax base on the allocation of funds from the general fund to the CRA.