During a recent government meeting, community members expressed significant concerns regarding the rising costs associated with city budgets and utility rates. Mitch Novick, a long-time resident and business owner, highlighted the troubling trend of declining resort tax revenue amidst the construction of 800 new hotel units at the convention center. He pointed out that his company's budget has doubled over the past twelve years, coinciding with a substantial increase in utility billing rates, which have seen over a dozen hikes in the same timeframe.

Novick urged city officials to exercise caution in their financial decisions, questioning specific budget allocations, including a proposed $400,000 for police garage doors, which he suggested might be a typographical error, and two significant expenditures for air conditioning replacements at historic city hall totaling $1.3 million. He emphasized the importance of closely monitoring financial expenditures to ensure fiscal responsibility.

Another resident echoed Novick's concerns, noting that the city’s budget, including sewer services, has surged from approximately $700 million to $1 billion in just two years—a staggering 40% increase. This rapid escalation raises alarms about the sustainability of such growth and its potential impact on residents, particularly if economic conditions shift and utility rates continue to rise.

Both speakers commended city staff for their professionalism and efforts but underscored the urgent need for careful financial oversight as the community navigates these challenges.