The meeting opened with the introduction of a proposed property tax rate increase to 6.75 mills, a 2.2% hike from the previous rollback rate. This proposal was unanimously approved by the council. In the public hearing that followed, several residents expressed concerns over the increase. One resident, Albert Fuller, emphasized that the proposed budget increase would disproportionately impact marginalized citizens who are less likely to see salary increases that match the rate of the budget hike. He urged the council to consider the financial strain on these residents.

In response, a council member clarified that a portion of the budget increase is funded by grants from federal and state sources, not solely from local taxpayers. They noted that the actual budget had been reduced by over $100,000 from initial proposals, emphasizing efforts to minimize the financial burden on residents.

Another council member highlighted that the average employee raise this year was around 3%, with some receiving up to 3.4%. They also pointed out that the general fund saw a 5.7% increase, while the utility fund experienced just a 2.4% rise. The larger increases were attributed to specific projects funded by grants, particularly in the airport and Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) funds.

The council also unanimously approved the budget for the fiscal year 2024-2025, totaling $28,731,953. This approval came despite public concerns about the 13.3% increase from the previous year’s budget. A council member commended the staff for their efforts in creating a streamlined budget, noting that grants had played a role in funding the increases.

The meeting concluded with an announcement that the final public hearing to adopt the millage rate and budget would be held on September 24, 2024, at 5:30 PM in the City of Williston council chambers. The session was adjourned with unanimous approval.