Council advances 2026 budget and multiple compensation ordinances to further readings

Lancaster City Council used its Oct. 20 meeting to advance budget-related items and introduce a slate of pay and compensation ordinances for 2026.

Temporary Resolution 83-25, a second reading to make appropriations for planned 2026 budget expenses and to establish line-item transfer authority, was noted by Mr. Schoonover as the second of three readings. Council also heard second-reading notice on a resolution to adjust General Fund appropriations for fire department overtime and a second-reading on an ordinance regarding the health insurance management fund.

Council members introduced several pay and compensation ordinances that will return for subsequent readings, including: compensation for the council president, members and clerk (Temporary Ordinance 55-25); compensation for the city treasurer (57-25); multiple ordinances setting 2026 compensation and benefits for municipal employees, non-bargaining employees, seasonal interns and other classifications (Temporary Ordinances 61-25 through 66-25). Mr. Schoonover urged members to continue reviewing the proposed budget and to raise questions now that pay ordinances are available for review.

Committee chairs provided brief status reports: the Economic Development Committee meeting is scheduled Oct. 30; Water & Water Pollution updates included that startup at the North water plant is proceeding and the Main Street sewer separation project is near completion; the Finance Committee encouraged review of the draft budget; Safety Committee reviewed police and fire budgets and anticipates further budget iterations if the final budget is not adopted in December.

Council set upcoming regular sessions for Nov. 3 and Nov. 11 and listed committee meeting dates for the coming month. The meeting adjourned at approximately 7:15 p.m.