During the Willmar City Council Work Session on November 26, 2024, council members engaged in a critical discussion regarding budget allocations, particularly focusing on housing and public safety funding. The council is considering a proposal to adjust the budget to maintain the current tax rate while addressing the needs of the Housing and Redevelopment Authority (HRA) and police department.

One of the main proposals discussed involved reallocating $75,000 from the HRA budget to fund police vehicles, which sparked debate among council members. Some members expressed concern about diverting funds from housing, emphasizing the importance of maintaining support for housing initiatives. Council member Audrey voiced her preference to adhere to staff recommendations and expressed confusion over the proposed changes.

The conversation also touched on potential cuts to park equipment funding, with some members suggesting that reducing park funding could help balance the budget without impacting housing support. The council acknowledged the need for a thorough review of the budget before final decisions are made, with plans to present a refined proposal at the next meeting.

City officials indicated that they would take the feedback from the work session into account and aim to present a budget that minimizes tax increases while addressing essential community needs. The council has until the second meeting in December to finalize the budget, highlighting the urgency of their discussions and the importance of community input in the decision-making process.