Council moves 2025 appropriation ordinance to third reading after debate over $3.3 million shortfall

Lorain City Council on second reading voted to send the proposed 2025 appropriations ordinance to a third reading after extended discussion about a projected deficit and the need for closer oversight.

Councilman Thornsbury, who presented a multi-year budget review, warned the proposed budget could leave the city roughly $3,300,000 “in the red” under current projections and urged quarterly budget reviews if the ordinance is enacted. “Right now as we're looking at adopting a budget that's 3,300,000 in the red,” Thornsbury said, adding that carryover balances have declined from prior levels.

Members debated several cost-control measures. Councilwoman Springkowski and others called for a hiring freeze and recommended re-examining elected-official raises that some members opposed. Councilman Nutt and others said the administration and auditor had been conservative in revenue estimates and urged vigilance through quarterly reviews to close the gap.

Why it matters: The appropriations ordinance sets city spending for 2025; a multi-million-dollar shortfall would draw down carryover funds and could require service adjustments or spending cuts if revenue does not meet estimates.

Procedure and outcome: A motion to send the ordinance to third reading carried; two members recorded dissent on the referral vote. Council also discussed timing for union contract review and called for continuing budget oversight by council and administration.

Next steps: The ordinance will return for a third reading and final vote; council members said they expected additional committee-level discussions and suggested work sessions with unions and department managers to explore cost reductions and hiring decisions before final passage.