The Planning Commission meeting scheduled for August 27th has been canceled, while the Environmental Advisory Board will convene on August 28th at 6:30 PM at City Hall. Additionally, the Uplands quarterly construction update is set for August 29th at 5:30 PM at Crown Point Academy. City administrative offices will be closed on Labor Day, September 2nd, but emergency services will remain operational.

The Special Permits and License Board will meet on September 4th at 7 PM in the City Council chambers. The next City Council meeting will take place on September 9th at 6:30 PM, featuring three public hearings regarding the Uplands development at various locations along West 88th Avenue and Federal Boulevard. The council may also consider a draft collective bargaining agreement with the Fraternal Order of Police if a vote by employees is successful.

A significant topic discussed was the proposed 2025 budget, which is currently in draft form. The budget totals $449 million, reflecting a $52 million increase from 2024, primarily due to capital needs. Key allocations include 37% for personnel and 29% for capital projects. The budget aims to maintain existing staffing levels while enhancing funding for core services, mental health initiatives, and public safety, without raising sales or property taxes.

City Council will review the draft budget and gather public feedback, with a public hearing scheduled for September 9th. The final budget is expected to be adopted on October 28th.

In a pressing update, the city is monitoring a special legislative session initiated by the governor to amend property tax legislation. This session aims to address potential financial impacts from initiatives that could significantly lower assessment rates and create revenue caps. The proposed compromise legislation seeks to balance these changes while minimizing adverse effects on the city’s urban renewal areas. City staff is actively coordinating with lobbyists and municipal partners to advocate for amendments that would protect local revenue streams.