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Council reviews CIP and budget outlook; councilors pause MRAC solar, consider wrap‑tax funds for ball‑field improvements
Summary
City staff reviewed the fiscal-year-to-date budget and a preliminary capital improvement plan. Council agreed to postpone large solar panel purchases to 2027, discussed using wrap‑tax funds for ball‑field improvements, and approved a consent agenda that included $1,513,254.38 in bills.
City finance and public‑works staff presented an 83‑percent‑to‑date fiscal review and a multi‑year capital improvement program (CIP) overview during the Moab City Council meeting on April 22.
Michael (city staff) told the council the city had collected roughly 73 percent of expected revenues so far in the fiscal year and was below budget on expenses, leaving the city on track to finish the year with positive reserves. Michael also walked the council through proposed CIP projects, funding sources and carryforward items, including the recently banked wrap tax fund.
Why it matters: Councilmembers used the CIP briefing to discuss which capital projects to prioritize for the coming two years and how to use dedicated funds, including the wrap tax balance. Several items in the draft CIP would rely on grants (CIB and others) and carry funding from current projects into the next fiscal year.
Key decisions and discussion
- Wrap tax fund uses: Michael said the wrap tax balance is approximately $1 million. Mayor Tawny suggested using wrap‑tax funds to pay for design of improvements to the ball fields after a public comment highlighted softballs landing in a neighbor’s yard (see public comment). Council requested staff evaluate ball‑field design and present options funded by wrap tax.
- MRAC (Moab Recreation & Aquatic Center) solar panels: Council discussed a proposed $375,000 solar project to replace panels damaged in a hailstorm. Given competing structural and mechanical needs at the MRAC and uncertainty about solar panel tariffs and equipment costs, councilmembers agreed to move the solar panel replacement to 2027 and to fast‑track structural/mechanical repairs first.
- Pool status and playground: Michael reported a mechanical failure at the indoor pool caused by failed distribution piping; the pool was closed for repairs but staff were working to reopen it within days. Suwanee Playground was near completion and would open on a limited basis while finishing exterior concrete work; a grand opening will be scheduled later.
- Consent agenda and bills: The council approved the consent agenda, which included minutes and bills totaling $1,513,254.38. The motion was made by Councilmember Jason, seconded by Councilmember Colin, and passed on a 5‑0 vote.
What the council asked staff to do
Staff will prepare a revised CIP and budget packet that incorporates: (a) departmental leads and suggested timelines for the strategic-plan top priorities; (b) a proposal for wrap‑tax–funded ball‑field design; and (c) a plan to continue addressing MRAC mechanical and structural repairs before pursuing new solar equipment.
Ending
Staff said it will return with a more condensed CIP packet and a timetable that aligns strategic-plan priorities with the May/June budget hearings. The council did not adopt the CIP tonight; Michael said the city will present a tentative budget at the May 13 meeting and a final budget for adoption by June.
