High-Level Summary
The city council meeting, presided over by Mayor Al and attended by Vice Mayor Dano, focused primarily on infrastructure and safety issues, budget allocations for the fiscal year 2025, and the adoption of the millage rate. Major topics included public comments on community safety, the proposed FY 2025 budget, and the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP).
Important Topics Discussed
Public Comments on Infrastructure and Safety:
- James, a public commenter, highlighted issues concerning infrastructure and road safety, urging the council to redirect funds for road improvement projects. "Divert that money that was accidentally on purpose given towards western expansion and put it towards Road Improvement and expansion as it was intended," he asserted.
Proposed Fiscal Year 2025 Budget:
- Budget and Procurement Manager Gwen Ragsdale presented the FY 2025 budget, which totals $421,551,721, reflecting a 17.9% increase. The budget breakdown was explained, with the general fund accounting for 15% at a millage rate of 4.1893.
- James also called for improved bike safety education in schools, noting, "We do have a lot of bad drivers in this town... I suggest that we step up bike safety awareness and safety instruction in our schools."
Capital Improvement Plan (CIP):
- The CIP for the next five years was reviewed, allocating $210 million for various projects in FY 2025, with a focus on stormwater management, fire impact fees, and transportation improvements. No changes were made since the last review.
Millage Rate Discussion:
- The council debated a millage rate increase to 4.1893, a 4.83% climb from the rollback rate of 3.9961. This rate is essential for funding the proposed budget. Vice Mayor Dano voiced concerns about the impact on rental prices and non-homesteaded properties.
- He noted, "Rental prices will definitely go up and they're already high... we should find that $2 million and do that full millage rate rollback."
Special Revenue Funds and Budget Consultation:
- Special revenue funds, such as the American Rescue Plan Act and Community Development block grants, contribute 5% to the total budget. The city's website was highlighted as a resource for public consultation and budget review.
Opportunities for Public Consultation
- Consultation Methods: Public comments were invited before major fiscal decisions, especially on infrastructure needs and safety concerns. Community members can continue providing input through formal avenues such as comment cards and the city's online budget preparation resources.
Motions and Outcomes
Adoption of State Road 100 CRA Budget:
- Title: Adoption of State Road 100 Corridor Community Redevelopment Agency Final Budget for FY 2024-2025.
- Outcome: Passed unanimously with a motion by Council Member Pontier and seconded by Council Member Kuus.
Motion to Approve Millage Rate of 4.1893 Mills:
- Outcome: Passed, motioned by Councilman Kuus and seconded by Councilwoman Pontier.
Follow-Up Actions or Next Steps
- Finalization of the resolution on the proposed millage rate.
- Implementation of public suggestions regarding infrastructure and road safety awareness campaigns in schools.
- Continuous updates of fiscal documents and information on the city's website for public accessibility and transparency.
Councillors Present