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Camanche holds extended budget workshop; council sets proposed maximum levy and presses parks commission for a plan
Summary
At a lengthy budget workshop the council set a proposed maximum levy in the 1.27–1.28 range, reduced a library repair request, debated a $60,000 parks allocation and discussed shifting most of that money into a council‑controlled transfer unless the parks commission provides a firm plan.
The Camanche City Council spent an extended session reviewing departmental budgets, adjusting library line items, debating a parks allocation and directing staff to propose a maximum property‑tax levy for certification to the county.
Library: Staff reduced the library’s repairs and maintenance request from $12,000 to $4,000 after discussing how unspent budgeted amounts roll into the library’s savings/CD. Council discussed vacancies and part‑time staffing challenges, noting prior‑year low expenses largely reflected unfilled positions. Staff suggested a 3% wage adjustment across the library and explained that some personnel and benefit line items required journal entries to correct prior coding.
Parks: Council debated whether to allocate $60,000 to the parks commission without a firm plan. Several members said the volunteer parks commission repeatedly missed budget deadlines and agendas, undermining accountability. Options considered included moving $55,000 of the requested amount into a council‑controlled “transfer outline” so the council retains leverage over spending, or converting the parks commission to an advisory body. Council directed staff to place most of the funds in a transfer line under council control unless the parks commission provided a clear plan.
Levy and budget totals: Staff walked council through budget summaries, special‑revenue transfers and proposals that affect the levy. After discussion, the administrator said he would prepare a refined package for March and recommended a proposed maximum levy in the 1.27–1.28 range; the council directed staff to proceed with a proposed max levy (figure to be finalized in March). Staff emphasized that final levy certification and any necessary amendments would follow further review.
Other items: The fire chief corrected previously misstated ambulance revenue numbers during his monthly report and apologized for the error; staff said they are working with the city clerk to prevent repeat mistakes.
Next steps: Staff will provide revised budget documents to department heads for final review, will request updated park commission information, and will present a refined levy proposal at the next meeting for formal action and county certification.
