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City administrator presents annual fee study; board hears two proposed new planning fees
Summary
City administrators presented the 2026 fee study (bill 3698) that reviews about 251 fees across departments, proposes two new planning-related fees (zoning verification letter and buffer-yard variance), and recommends average increases; aldermen asked for details on specific fee changes and implementation timing.
The city administrator presented the annual fee study (bill 3698) that would establish updated city fees effective Jan. 1, 2026 if the board adopts the ordinance. The presentation said approximately 251 fees were reviewed across departments, with parks accounting for about 144 of the fees and planning/public works about 98. The administrator said two new fees are proposed in planning: a zoning verification letter (issued at lender or buyer request to certify zoning) and a buffer-yard-variance processing fee to cover staff time and publication costs.
The presentation characterized the process as a cost-recovery review consistent with the municipal code amendment adopted in 2018; staff said most proposed fees are intended to recover the cost of municipal services rather than generate profit. The administrator stated that roughly 80% of the fees reviewed are recommended for increases, while about 20% remain the same or decrease; the presentation also cited an "average increase" range used in budget planning.
Aldermen asked staff to provide examples and clarify new or significantly increased fees and their timing; a member of the public asked about the cost of annexation and associated utility connection fees in a specific scenario. The board did not adopt the fees at first reading; bill 3698 was placed on its first reading and will return to a future meeting for final action when the board can review detailed line-item changes and the 2026 budget.
