Council begins 2026 capital budget review; Nichols Road MPO grant, sewer lift station and equipment needs draw lengthy debate

Mayor Moore and Finance Director Mark Oterker led a first-read review of the proposed 2026 Capital Improvements Program on Oct. 20. The mayor emphasized restraint in borrowing and noted that this session was informational; no votes on the budget were taken. The original proposed capital program totaled $5,716,000; if all amendments discussed are later approved the total would rise by about $2,300,000 to roughly $8,029,000 and the general portion that affects debt service could increase from $2,500,000 to $3,700,000.

Several amendment proposals prompted extended council discussion and staff clarification.

Nichols Road design and MPO grant: Alder Woods proposed reinstating design funding for the Nichols Road corridor so the city can remain eligible for regional (MPO) construction funding that would cover an estimated 65% of construction costs. Staff and proponents discussed the design-cost history: the transcript included varying figures during the discussion: a cited total design contract range (around $270,000–$323,000), prior borrowing of about $180,000 and a 2026 need that staff later said would be $105,000 to complete design work. Council members asked for a clear cost summary and the mayor noted construction is currently programmed…