Williston City Council Deliberates on Airport Funding, Health Insurance Policies, and Community Engagement

Overview: The recent Williston City Council meeting tackled a range of issues, including potential changes to airport funding, modifications to employee health insurance policies, and the formation of a citizens advisory group to enhance community involvement.

Williston City Council Approves Budget Amid Public Concerns Over Spending Increases

Overview: At the recent Williston City Council meeting, members approved a budget of approximately $28 million for the upcoming fiscal year. This decision came despite public concerns about budget growth since 2019, with some attributing increases to grant funding rather than taxpayer dollars.

Williston City Council Faces Backlash Over Proposed Fire Service Assessment Hike

Overview: The Williston City Council faced public opposition to its proposed fire service assessment rate increase during their meeting on September 10, 2025. Residents questioned the justification for raising the assessment from a previously discussed $129 to $159, citing concerns over affordability, especially for those living on fixed incomes in one of the state’s poorest counties.

Williston City Council Faces Challenges Over Employee Pay and Certification Processes

Overview: At a recent Williston City Council meeting, discussions unfolded regarding employee payments, certification processes, and proposed changes to council member term lengths and compensation. These topics highlighted ongoing challenges within the city’s administration and governance.

Williston City Council Faces Heated Debate Over Proposed 7% Union Wage Increase

Overview: During a recent Williston City Council meeting, attention was directed toward a proposal from the local union for a 7% wage increase, scheduled to take effect on October 1, 2025. The proposal sparked debate among council members, who expressed concerns about the timing and implications of the request amid ongoing budget discussions. A council member questioned the rationale, noting the proposal’s introduction during the third budget workshop, and expressed frustration by stating, “How can you walk in here and ask for a 7% increase when we’re in our third budget workshop?” The discussion revealed a sense of urgency and dissatisfaction, with members emphasizing that the request’s timing complicated considerations for wage adjustments.