During a recent government meeting, officials discussed significant changes to the city’s budget and fee structures, highlighting a proposed fiscal year 2025 budget totaling $28,042,820, which includes a 2% increase for publication purposes. The meeting focused on streamlining various fees, including adjustments to water and wastewater rates based on meter size, aiming for consistency in calculations.

Council members expressed concerns regarding the substantial increase in the budget, noting that the rise from fiscal year 2023 to 2024 is approximately $4 million, with an even larger jump of around $9 million projected for the following year. Officials attributed these increases to rising operational costs, including fuel prices and capital project expenses, as well as increased revenue from impact and connection fees.

The council clarified that the budget reflects anticipated revenues and expenditures, emphasizing that unspent funds from previous years are carried forward, which can affect year-over-year comparisons. The discussion underscored the complexities of municipal budgeting, particularly in light of rising costs and the need for transparency in financial reporting.

The proposed budget will undergo a public hearing, where the council will formally appropriate the budget, ensuring compliance with state requirements for publication and public input.