City Council Faces Budget Scrutiny Amid Infrastructure Concerns

The City of Lamarck City Council convened on August 6, 2024, for a budget meeting that included discussions on pressing community issues, particularly regarding animal control and drainage infrastructure. The meeting, held both in-person and via video conference, began with a roll call and an invocation led by council members.

During the citizens' participation segment, James Osteen raised concerns about discrepancies in the budget numbers related to animal control, suggesting that incorrect figures from previous years were being used, which he argued could lead to significant funding shortfalls. He emphasized the need for accurate budgeting to ensure proper resource allocation for the Animal Resource Center.

David Pennington followed with a plea for a dedicated crew to clean drainage ditches, citing the increasing severity of flooding due to climate change. He argued that a qualified team is essential for effective drainage management and urged the council to allocate funds for this purpose. Pennington also questioned the current deployment of newly hired police officers, seeking clarity on their presence in the community.

In response to the concerns raised, council members acknowledged the importance of accurate budgeting and the need for a dedicated stormwater management team. They discussed past attempts to establish a crew for cleaning ditches and the challenges faced in funding such initiatives. The council is considering implementing a stormwater fee to support these efforts, particularly for commercial properties.

The meeting highlighted the council's commitment to addressing community concerns through careful budget planning and resource management, with ongoing discussions about improving infrastructure and public safety in Lamarck.