Committee approves first reading of supplemental appropriation ordinance to shift unspent 2024 funds and fund in‑house crews

The Legal and Finance Committee heard introduction and first reading of Ordinance No. 6663, the first supplemental appropriation for 2025, on April 2, 2025. Director Ainsley (Finance) told the committee the ordinance adds unexpended 2024 budget authority into 2025 and includes line‑item adjustments to fund several crews to perform work currently contracted out.

Why it matters: the ordinance is intended to reduce the city’s reliance on higher‑cost outside contractors by using existing department staff and newly funded operator positions to perform grounds maintenance, median and downtown beautification, concrete patching and some asphalt and utility repairs. The director characterized the positions as operator‑level (not mid‑management) and said the payline reductions in existing contracting accounts would cover the labor costs.

What the ordinance would change

- Reallocate unspent 2024 funds into 2025 budget authority so projects and initiatives can continue. - Create crews (paid operator positions) to perform: City Hall and RTS grounds maintenance, parks maintenance, concrete patching and repair, some asphalt work and utility repairs currently performed by contractors. - The positions were described as operational laborers (not management) and would be available to multiple departments including parks and streets.

Council reaction and clarifications

Council member Pat Roseland supported the proposal and said downtown beautification and routine maintenance could benefit from in‑house crews. Council member Bill Evans cautioned that providing additional services requires revenue and suggested exploring dedicated local revenue sources for discretionary amenities, but acknowledged the value of using in‑house staff where feasible.

Formal action

A motion to approve the first reading was made (mover recorded in the meeting audio as Beavert) and seconded by Roseland. The committee voted in favor and the motion carried. The ordinance advanced on first reading; further readings or final adoption will occur in subsequent meetings.

Clarifying details from the meeting

- Source of funds: unexpended 2024 budget authority to be added into 2025 (specific line‑item amounts were not specified in the committee discussion). - Job scope: crews to perform grounds maintenance, median upkeep, concrete patching and repair, some asphalt work and utility repairs; positions described as operators rather than management. - Implementation: staff said this is likely an initial step and department directors have been asked to find further efficiencies for future budget cycles.

What remains unspecified

- The transcript and presentation did not specify the total dollar amount of the supplemental appropriation or the exact number of operator positions to be created; staff were asked to return with implementation details in future budget work sessions.