Council reviews outreach plan for possible levy; timeline includes public hearings in June–July and August ballot deadline

City staff and council reviewed outreach plans for a potential levy measure and discussed how to present options and financial context to residents.

Deputy Mayor and staff described a multi-month engagement schedule that includes published materials, a website launch, community presentations and two public hearings scheduled for June and July. City staff noted that the deadline to place a levy measure on the November ballot is Aug. 5.

Staff said the engagement will include mailed survey results, videos and community presentations at events such as the farmers market and National Night Out; officials said the chief and city administrator could serve as spokespeople at public events. Staff also described an intent to post frequently asked questions and a Q&A on the city website and to provide an email address for public questions.

Council members and staff discussed what a potential levy would fund. Options include dedicated public-safety funding (personnel and court-related costs) or capital projects. Several council members said the community survey indicates residents want specificity about what a levy would fund rather than a general operating backfill.

City administrators said early outreach in March–April will focus on background information about the city’s budget gap and the mechanics of a levy; conceptual options would be refined in April and developed into more detailed outreach materials for the summer. Staff recommended an interactive community workshop format — with tables for financial topics and council or staff available to answer questions — in addition to town-hall presentations.

No formal decision was made at the meeting; staff said they will return with conceptual levy options for council consideration in April and will continue public engagement if the council decides to move forward.