Commission gives first reading to 2026 budget ordinance, discusses capital projects and nonprofit cuts

Jamieson, city finance staff, presented the first reading of Ordinance No. 1683, the 2026 budget appropriations ordinance. The commission voted to approve the ordinance's first reading; the second reading was scheduled for the next regular meeting.

Jamieson described the ordinance as a high-level package that includes a $12,000,000 general fund budget and sizable capital budgets for enterprise funds. He noted the city had applied for a Recreational Trails Program grant but did not receive it, so that project is not funded in the draft budget.

Several specific capital items were described: a Sportsplex roof replacement budgeted at $92,000 (the city replaced roughly two-thirds of the roof earlier in the year and found leaks in spring) and replacement of lights at Flint Field budgeted at $180,000 with outside partner commitments. Jamieson said the Baseball Association pledged $40,000, Heartland Energy an energy efficiency grant of $15,000 and Dakota State University $50,000; those contributions may be paid over three to ten years but the city would fund upfront and collect reimbursements over time.

Nonprofit funding was allocated with a uniform 10% reduction from prior years as a "middle of the road" approach amid earlier direction. Jamieson also told the commission the wage study is delayed, so an 8% placeholder for wages remains in the draft and will be adjusted if the study finishes in time to affect 2026 salaries.

Jamieson said the second reading would be at the next meeting and noted statutory requirements that two readings be at least 10 days apart when needed.

The commission passed the first reading by voice vote; no roll-call tally was entered on the record at that time.