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Brainerd council asks staff to draft referendum language for possible $4 million YMCA bond
Summary
Council directed staff and the city attorney to draft referendum language for a possible $4 million city contribution to a YMCA community pool project and asked that the language clearly state potential levy/property‑tax impacts; language is due to the county by Aug. 11 if council proceeds.
Council directed city staff to work with the city attorney to draft referendum language for a potential city contribution of $4,000,000 toward a YMCA community pool project, with language to be developed and returned to council for review ahead of the county deadline for ballot language (Aug. 11).
City administrator and staff briefed council on options for funding and said the YMCA is considering a $4 million request that would require the city to issue debt. Council members said they wanted clear referendum language indicating the levy and property‑tax implications so voters understand the likely tax impacts. Some councilmembers urged taking time to refine the language and to continue working with YMCA staff on benefit details, while others said drafting the language now would signal direction to the public and allow time for public input.
Council voted to direct staff and the city attorney to draft referendum language for council consideration; the motion carried. Members also discussed timing for public hearings and analysis of debt service and levy impacts to ensure transparency before any final decision to put a dollar amount on the ballot.
