Council splits supplemental appropriation into three ordinances; solid‑waste billing discrepancy explained

Council members moved Tuesday to split the supplemental appropriation ordinance (26‑882) into three separately numbered sections for first reading so each appropriation can be considered on its own. The council advanced three first readings: 26‑882.01 (community development—$76,000 for CIC administrative payments and $35,000 for nuisance abatement), 26‑882.02 (CDBG project fund match), and 26‑882.03 (solid waste fund adjustments), each read by title only and advanced on first reading votes.

Finance Director Larry Hartlo told council the community development item covers the remainder of an existing $100,000 CIC contract and an additional $35,000 request for boarding and weed‑mowing to address nuisance properties. Council approved first reading of that section by roll call (Gaby voted no; six members voted yes).

On the solid‑waste item, staff explained the city initially used a contractor’s estimate of 6,421 accounts to prepare the budget but verified about 7,200 service accounts after cart delivery and a field audit by the new hauler, Rumkey. Staff said they validated accounts using county GIS, auditor aerial imagery and site visits and will bill the additional accounts; the shortfall for the year is approximately $15,000 and council approved the first reading to appropriate the funds.

Council members asked for more detail on the billing audit and for a presentation staff can share with residents. Staff also reported collections at roughly 75% of billed accounts so far.

What’s next: Each ordinance will return for second reading and public hearing at a subsequent meeting. Staff will provide further documentation on Rumkey account verification and the line‑item exhibit for each supplemental appropriation prior to final action.