The meeting’s primary focus was a public hearing regarding the Truth and Taxation for taxes payable in 2025. Finance Director Tom Odin outlined the 2025 budget and tax levy, noting the general fund’s composition and how tax dollars are allocated across city services. The hearing drew strong reactions from residents concerned about property tax hikes. Jo Ridler voiced frustration over a 46% increase in property taxes over four years, urging the council to prioritize essential services like police and fire departments over non-essential expenditures. Ridler also questioned the city’s efforts to obtain federal grants for the fire department.

Echoing Ridler, Von Hoover shared that his taxes had doubled in three years despite little change in his property, calling for fair tax assessments. Another resident highlighted discrepancies in property valuations. In response, the finance director mentioned that such concerns would be addressed at the Truth and Board of Equalization meeting in April, as the current meeting was not the appropriate venue for these issues.

Following public comments, the council shifted focus to the allocation of ARPA funds, with a proposal to use them for purchasing police squad cars. This led to a broader discussion on budget cuts affecting various departments. The council reviewed cuts of $25,000 from the Planning Development Department, $26,000 from Human Resources, $25,000 from Cultural Diversity, and $22,000 from the Police Department, where resources were reallocated to create a full-time Community Service Officer position. The Fire Department faced a $3,500 reduction, while Parks and Recreation saw a $10,000 decrease. The community center’s budget was reduced by $18,850.

Despite these cuts, the Public Safety Department pursued FEMA grants, securing funding for radios, though previous applications had been unsuccessful. The council emphasized that the budgetary process involved detailed scrutiny of departmental submissions to balance needs, acknowledging that not all constituents would agree with the decisions. Concerns about accusations of defunding the police were addressed, with a council member stating that budget adjustments aimed for thoughtful fiscal management rather than defunding.

A motion to adopt a resolution approving the proposed budget followed, with discussions on reallocating ARPA funds to housing initiatives, deemed critical for community development. Concerns about the impact of tax increases on residents, especially seniors on fixed incomes, were raised, with one member suggesting that reallocating even a small amount could alleviate taxpayer burden. The council recognized community feedback and made concessions in various areas to accommodate budget realities.

The meeting also saw the approval of a significant sanitary sewer rate increase proposed by Public Works Director Justin Deo. The rate adjustments, based on a Wastewater study by Baker Tilly, were necessary to cover outstanding debt service, projected operating expenses, and future capital requirements. The proposal outlined a 12.5% rise in 2025, 10% in 2026, and 5% in both 2027 and 2028, with no increase in 2029. Public comments reflected concerns over managing rising bond payments, with suggestions for a more substantial early adjustment to address debts.

The council moved to adopt the ordinance amending the sewer rates, passing the motion unanimously. They also discussed the purchase agreement for the Jiny O Turkey Store property, approving the re-approval of the agreement and authorizing the mayor and city administrator to finalize it. Additionally, the council approved an amendment to the purchase agreement with Cura for the Care Center property.