Lake Havasu City Council approves $60K tennis court upgrades for community access

The Lake Havasu City Council convened on April 18, 2025, for a budget work session focused on the city's financial planning and operational needs. The meeting addressed several key items, including staffing, infrastructure improvements, and fiscal management.

The session began with discussions on staffing levels and the potential for reallocating responsibilities among city employees. Council members explored whether certain positions could be adjusted to accommodate additional duties without necessitating a full 40-hour workweek.

Vice Mayor Lang raised questions regarding a $60,000 allocation for improvements to tennis courts owned by the Lake Havasu Unified School District. City officials clarified that this expenditure stems from a ten-year intergovernmental agreement (IGA) requiring the city to enhance the tennis facilities every five years. The city will recover $30,000 from the school district, making the total investment $60,000. The tennis courts are open to the public, providing a cost-effective solution for community recreational needs.

The council also discussed the need for a booster pump station at Cypress Park, a newly developed facility. City staff explained that the pump would enhance water pressure for irrigation, improving the park's landscaping and overall functionality.

In a positive note, Vice Mayor Lang commended city staff for presenting a budget that does not incur new debt, highlighting the importance of paying off existing obligations to reduce interest costs. The council acknowledged the public's support for Proposition 409, which has enabled the city to maintain services without additional borrowing.

Further discussions included clarifications on Full-Time Equivalent (FTE) staffing metrics and the implications of health care costs on the budget. The city manager provided insights into how shifts in staffing could affect overall health care expenses, emphasizing that no employees would lose benefits due to reclassifications.

The meeting concluded with a focus on maintaining fiscal responsibility while addressing the community's needs through strategic budget allocations. The council plans to continue refining the budget in upcoming sessions, ensuring transparency and accountability in financial decisions.