In a recent government meeting, city officials discussed significant updates regarding the Drainage Master Plan and the Water and Wastewater Master Plan, highlighting a series of multimillion-dollar projects aimed at improving infrastructure and service delivery.

The Drainage Master Plan outlines a mix of high-level projects, including major construction initiatives, and smaller, in-house projects that will be prioritized and executed by city staff. The pilot projects, valued at approximately $1.5 million, are expected to be completed within two years, with procurement of necessary equipment and materials commencing immediately. The city has identified nearly 100 projects through a consultant's assessment, with a public website available for residents to track progress.

In parallel, the Water and Wastewater Master Plan is undergoing a comprehensive update, the first since 2008. The city has engaged a consulting firm to assess current utility rates and project future needs based on anticipated growth. Key tasks include condition assessments of existing facilities and the installation of monitoring equipment to evaluate system performance. The council anticipates presenting proposed rate adjustments in August, with implementation planned for October.

Financially, the city is grappling with rising operational costs, particularly in public safety and health insurance, which are projected to increase significantly. The general fund budget reflects a need for a stable tax rate to support these expenditures, with property tax revenues expected to rise due to an increase in taxable property values.

The sanitation fund is also under scrutiny, with projections indicating a potential drop in fund balance below the recommended reserve levels. Proposed rate adjustments are aimed at addressing this shortfall, with a focus on ensuring that the sanitation department can maintain service levels without overburdening residents.

Overall, the discussions underscore the city's commitment to enhancing its infrastructure while navigating financial challenges and ensuring sustainable service delivery for its residents. The council will continue to evaluate these plans and their implications in upcoming meetings.