In a recent government meeting, officials outlined the draft operating budget for 2025, highlighting a total tax levy of $9,710,109, which marks a 4.4% increase from the previous year. The proposed mill rate is set to rise to approximately $7.46 per $1,000 of assessed value, up from $7.05 in 2023. This increase is attributed to a combination of factors, including changes in property assessments and the removal of personal property from the tax base.

The budget summary indicates that general fund revenues and expenditures have both increased by 4.19% compared to last year, with general property taxes contributing 57% of the revenue. Public safety remains a significant focus, accounting for 48% of general fund expenditures, while public works and culture and recreation follow at 24% and 16%, respectively.

Officials noted that the city did not qualify for the expenditure restraint program in 2025 but anticipates a payment of approximately $185,000 in 2026 based on the current budget. The budget also includes provisions for debt service, which has increased by 30% due to prior borrowing, totaling $1.8 million.

The meeting also addressed the impact of the budget on property taxes, estimating an increase of about $91 for homeowners with an average assessed value of $225,000. While the city’s portion of the tax bill is expected to rise, officials indicated that the overall tax increase for 2025 remains moderate, pending final certification from the county.

In terms of staffing, the city maintains 99 full-time positions, with a slight reduction in dispatchers. The total estimated expenditure across all funds is projected at $28 million, with salaries and benefits comprising a significant portion of the budget.

Looking ahead, the capital improvements budget for 2025 is set at approximately $9.2 million, focusing on key projects such as the completion of the public works and parks operation facility and infrastructure improvements. The final budget will be adjusted following the certification of levies from other taxing jurisdictions, with further details to be finalized in the coming months.