During a recent government meeting, officials discussed the city's budget revenues and proposed increases in fees for various services, particularly concerning slip rentals and launch fees for boaters. The conversation highlighted a potential revenue surplus, with estimates suggesting an increase of $25,000 to $50,000 over previous projections. However, it was noted that any excess revenue would be redirected to the general fund rather than the specific budget for parks and recreation.

A significant focus was placed on the need for capital improvements in local parks, particularly the Village Park parking lot, which is expected to require substantial funding between $75,000 and $100,000. The discussion also touched on the installation of LED lighting in parks, which, while initially costly, promises immediate cost savings in energy consumption. Officials emphasized the importance of sustainable practices in park management, referencing past initiatives that included eco-friendly upgrades like automatic flushing toilets and sink aerators.

In terms of service fees, the proposed 2025 budget includes increases for slip rentals, with rates set to rise from $2,910 to $3,100 plus tax. Additionally, the fee for lift rentals is expected to increase from $600 to $700, while lift storage will see a $25 increase to $325. The security deposit for boat launches will remain unchanged, but officials noted that any adjustments to launch fees must be approved by the Department of Natural Resources (DNR).

Concerns were raised about the competitiveness of the proposed fees, particularly in comparison to other local launch sites. Currently, the city charges $50 for an annual launch pass, which some officials believe is low given the limited access points available for boaters. The meeting concluded with a commitment to further investigate the DNR's fee structure and explore potential adjustments to better align with regional standards.