Planning and zoning staff told commissioners the proposed budget includes a new full‑time GIS specialist to support mapping across departments and correct discrepancies on the city’s zoning and utility maps. The planner said the city’s existing maps — including property‑appraiser centerlines and the zoning map — do not align and that a dedicated GIS specialist would build and maintain accurate base maps for streets, utilities and parcels.
Commissioners asked whether the position could start as part‑time; staff replied the workload will be citywide and continuous, so a full‑time hire is proposed, though the position’s salary could be split among general, utilities and building funds if usage warrants. City Manager Dale Freeman said the budget can be adjusted during the fiscal year if departments’ share of the GIS specialist’s time becomes clear.
The commission asked staff to consider an allocation plan that reflects which departments will use the GIS specialist most heavily, and to return with proposed splits so the general fund impact can be minimized.