In a recent city council meeting, officials discussed the potential shift of city elections to November, aligning them with national elections to boost voter turnout and reduce costs. Council members expressed support for the idea, citing increased participation observed during the November 2020 elections, which saw a record turnout for the mayoral race. However, implementing this change would require legislative action, as cities need to engage their state representatives to initiate the process.

City Manager Megan provided insights into the logistical implications of such a change, including the need for coordination with the county's election administrator regarding equipment and voting procedures. Council members emphasized the importance of thorough discussions with local officials to ensure a smooth transition if the change is approved.

Additionally, the council reviewed the city’s capital improvement plan, which outlines a budget of over $10 million for various projects over the next five years. A significant portion of this budget is allocated for utilities, reflecting the city's ongoing efforts to upgrade essential infrastructure. The plan also includes provisions for tourism-related improvements, particularly for the visitor center.

The meeting also touched on employee salaries, with a focus on raising the minimum wage for city employees to $15 an hour, a priority for several council members. The city manager assured the council that efforts are underway to address compensation and improve the budgeting process for the upcoming fiscal year.

As the council prepares for future discussions, including a resolution regarding the election schedule, they are also looking to enhance community engagement through informative videos about the budget process, aiming to clarify how city funds are allocated and spent. The next steps involve reaching out to state representatives and finalizing the capital improvement plan for public review.