Council reviews proposed budget, agrees to publish hearing notices on staff-recommended rate

City Council members met in a budget workshop to review a proposed multi‑fund spending plan and to consider the tax rate to fund it. Staff presented the proposed budget and recommended the lower rate printed in the packet; council members discussed whether to add a cushion above that figure and agreed to publish the statutorily required notices and hold public hearings on the rate.

The budget presentation said proposed changes include a 2.5% salary adjustment across the salary schedule, consolidation of some technology expenses into single maintenance/subscription lines, and proposals for an external accounting review of internal controls. Staff described increases in personnel and…