During the Town Council's preliminary budget meeting on August 14, 2025, in Burns Harbor, significant discussions centered around the approval of gutter installation and the potential addition of gutter guards. The council considered a motion to hire Dumlin Seamless Gutters for a project costing $3,449, with a budget cap of $3,500 sourced from the Capital Development Fund (CCD).

Council members expressed concerns about the effectiveness of the new gutters, particularly in light of tree blockages that have historically caused issues. Brandon, a council member, supported the idea of installing gutter guards to prevent future clogs, suggesting that the guards would cost an additional $1,500. However, an alternative proposal emerged, suggesting that the town could purchase gutter guards from Home Depot for approximately $300 to $400, significantly reducing costs. This option would require council approval for purchasing the materials, which could be installed by town staff.

The discussion highlighted the council's focus on cost-saving measures while ensuring the functionality of town infrastructure. The potential savings from the Home Depot option were emphasized, with council members noting that the installation process is manageable for their team.

In addition to the gutter discussions, the council addressed the status of the salt dome project. An email from Mr. Oltman of Global indicated that not all closeout documents had been received, prompting the council to table this matter until September.

Overall, the meeting underscored the council's commitment to prudent financial management and proactive maintenance of town facilities, setting the stage for further discussions in the coming months.