Granite Falls holds public hearing on 2025 budget; no public testimony

Deputy City Manager Jeff Balentine presented the City of Granite Falls’ proposed 2025 budget at the Nov. 6 council meeting, outlining preliminary revenue and expense estimates for the general, street, water, sewer and storm funds, capital improvement funds and reserves. The presentation included a breakdown of the City’s 2024 tax dollar for an average residential valuation ($444,800) and a review of staffing and debt load projections.

The presentation was supported by a packet of exhibits entered into the record by City Clerk Darla Reese, including the official public hearing notice, verification of posting, an affidavit of publication and the budget documents and PowerPoint slides. Mayor Matthew Hartman opened the public testimony portion of the hearing; "No one signed up or chose to speak from the audience," the record shows, and the Council moved to close the hearing without public comment.

Councilmember Griggs moved to open the public hearing; Councilmember Glenn seconded the motion and it carried. After the presentation and the lack of public testimony, Councilmember Glenn moved to close the hearing; Councilmember FitzGerald seconded and the motion carried. The presentation highlighted estimated reserves, departmental expense categories and planned capital projects across funds. Ballpark figures and line‑item totals were included in the materials in the packet but final budget adoption and any ordinance language were not recorded at this meeting.

The budget review also noted staffing classifications and the City’s debt load as subjects for ongoing budget deliberations. The Council will consider the full adoption schedule and any ordinance on subsequent agenda(s).