The Michigan City Council convened on September 24, 2025, for a budget workshop aimed at discussing the proposed budget for 2026. The meeting focused on various financial aspects, particularly concerning the refuse department and overall revenue projections.

The session began with a review of the proposed budget, where council members expressed concerns about declining revenues in the refuse department. It was noted that the refuse fund had seen lower-than-expected income, prompting discussions on how to address this financial shortfall. The council acknowledged that the budget had historically been underfunded, leading to the need for adjustments in the upcoming fiscal year.

A significant point of discussion was the increase in communication and transportation costs associated with the refuse department. Council members highlighted the introduction of Kintone, a system used for managing pickups and other operational tasks, which had not been adequately budgeted in previous years. This led to a consensus that the budget needed to reflect actual spending more accurately to avoid future discrepancies.

The council also touched upon property tax revenues, which are projected to decrease due to changes in state tax regulations. Members expressed concerns about the impact of ongoing construction and rising property values, questioning why these factors were not translating into increased tax revenues. The discussion revealed a complex interplay between assessed values and state-imposed tax caps, which could further limit the city's financial resources.

As the meeting progressed, council members requested more detailed financial reports that would provide clearer insights into past budgets and actual expenditures. This request aimed to enhance transparency and facilitate better decision-making for future budgets.

In conclusion, the workshop underscored the need for a thorough review of the proposed budget, particularly in light of the challenges facing the refuse department and the anticipated decline in property tax revenues. The council plans to revisit these discussions in future meetings, ensuring that the budget aligns with the city's financial realities and operational needs.