During the Saginaw City Council's Budget Workshop on August 10, 2024, a key focus emerged around the need for a clear and accessible priority list for upcoming projects. Council members expressed a desire for a "slick sheet" summarizing the priority list, which would serve as a handy reference for discussions and inquiries from the public. One council member emphasized the importance of having this information readily available, stating, "It would be nice to have that because I could literally look at it and say, okay, here’s what we’re doing."

The conversation also highlighted concerns regarding the timeline and funding for the Macquarie Boulevard project. Council members noted that delays in project execution could lead to increased costs due to inflation and the diminishing value of bond funds. One member pointed out, "It gets more expensive the longer we wait," stressing the urgency of moving forward with projects that have already been mandated by citizens through previous bond approvals.

Additionally, the council discussed the implications of not utilizing bond funds effectively, with one member reminding the group that the bond program is now several years old and that the community expects the promised work to be completed. The sentiment was clear: timely action is crucial to meet community needs and uphold commitments made to residents.

In a related discussion, the council reviewed the budget for the Flock license plate reader system, noting a 25% decrease in service costs due to the absence of setup fees in the second year. They also confirmed that the training kit for officers, designed to accommodate multiple participants, has been funded in the current budget, ensuring that resources are available for ongoing officer training.

As the council continues to refine the budget, the emphasis on transparency and accountability remains a priority, with members committed to delivering on the projects that matter most to the Saginaw community.