A point of discussion was the Wastewater fund, which originally projected a deficit of $588,000. The fund’s budget concerns were exacerbated by the proposal to increase employee compensation to the 60th percentile, leading to a revised projected deficit of $594,000. With current reserves at approximately $975,000, commissioners were warned of a potential decrease to about $380,000 without corrective action. To combat this, a 6.6% fee increase seemed necessary to balance the Wastewater fund budget.

Further scrutinizing the financials, the city’s Finance Director presented a pressing case for a rate increase in sewer services, citing a significant deficit in the sewer fund. Proposed adjustments included an additional $10 every two months for the average household, equating to a monthly charge of around $10 for 10,000 gallons of water usage. Commissioners weighed the implications of this increase on both larger and smaller households, debating the fairness of the cost distribution and the necessity of maintaining adequate reserves for unforeseen operational needs or emergencies.

The reclaimed water service also faced scrutiny, with its smaller deficit prompting discussions on prioritizing adjustments for the sewer fund. Concerns about the potential impact on smaller households if the base rate were increased were voiced, as commissioners grappled with finding a balance that would avoid placing an undue burden on those who consume less water.

Budget workshops shed light on the need for budget adjustments, with the general fund experiencing a 6.6% increase in the Sheriff’s proposed budget, resulting in a $370,000 increase for the city. The Fire Station 22 design fees were also reevaluated, with reductions from $600,000 to $150,000 highlighting efforts to readdress budgetary allocations. Additionally, the Hurley Park playground project was discussed, with a 50/50 cost-sharing agreement with the Monstory School on the table.

The stormwater fund’s deficit, initially estimated at $1 million, was another focal point. Thanks to a legislative appropriation of $625,000 and the transfer of an expenditure to the resiliency fund, the deficit was substantially reduced to $200,000. However, the need for a potential stormwater assessment adjustments study was highlighted, though its cost remained undetermined.

Amidst these financial deliberations, the City Commission also contemplated the addition of a full-time code enforcement Administrative Assistant position and the potential for evaluating additional code enforcement positions. The size of the code enforcement department vis-à-vis the city’s population and its perceived aggressiveness sparked debate among commissioners.

The meeting took a notable turn as a moment of silence was observed in memory of former Commissioner and Vice Mayor Harry Mets. Acknowledgments of his contributions to the community were heartfelt, with speakers including a military resident and State Representative Linda Cheney, who spoke highly of Harry’s dedication. A request to name the area at Pass-a-Grille after Harry Mets was made, emphasizing his lasting impact on the community.

Public comments included concerns raised by Lisa Robinson regarding the delay in reimbursements for the site improvement grant for small businesses. Max Assenheimer highlighted the need for action on the seawall at P Grill to address flooding risks. Deborah Shechner joined in remembrance of Harry Mets, advocating for a city property to be named in his honor. Mark Grill brought up multiple issues, including street lights, the upcoming municipal elections, potential sewer fee increases, and ethical violations.