Monticello council amends FY25 appropriation to fund feasibility study, body cameras, tree removal and street work

The Monticello City Council adopted Ordinance 20 25-64 on Sept. 8 to amend the fiscal year 2025 appropriation ordinance and allocate funds for several unplanned or additional expenses.

The ordinance adds funding line items including $44,000 (which reflects a 10% contingency added per the city auditor) for a fire/police/admin facility feasibility study requested by the police, fire and facilities committee; $9,900 for police body-camera equipment replacement (noted as an ongoing expense through 2027 rather than a one-time purchase); $33,000 for the public works hazard tree removal program to address large-diameter trees beyond city staff capacity; $22,000 to finish the city street shed after a staff employee became unavailable; and $39,600 for a final retainage payment tied to the Buchanan Street pavement rehabilitation grant project.

City staff explained that amending the appropriation ordinance is the legal means to authorize spending for unforeseen items that arise after the original budget ordinance is adopted and that the auditor requires adding a 10% contingency when amending the ordinance. The amendment increases the original appropriation totals (the transcript lists original totals but the final exact aggregate number in the meeting audio is not clearly enunciated in the record provided).

Council approved the ordinance on roll call at the meeting; staff recommended adoption to permit contracting for the consultant work, finish the street shed, and complete the Buchanan Street project payment. The meeting record does not list additional conditions or an implementation timetable beyond standard department responsibilities for contracting and expenditure.