Reinbeck council directs budget cuts, approves 2.8% COLA as FY2027 shows $170,751 shortfall

The Reinbeck City Council on Jan. 5 reviewed preliminary FY2027 figures showing projected revenues of $880,229 against departmental and board requests totaling $1,050,980, producing a $170,751 shortfall. After discussion about department requests and potential reductions, the council voted to require revised submissions ahead of the February meeting.

The council directed the library to recalculate its request (which was roughly $60,862 higher than FY2025) and asked other departments to identify cuts. Council member Bueghly moved that the library refigure its budget using a target range of $135,000 to $140,000; the motion passed on a roll-call vote with Wambold, Pease, Johnson, Trepp and Bueghly voting aye.

Separately, the council approved a 2.8% cost-of-living increase for city employees for FY2027, a motion offered by Pease and seconded by Wambold that passed by roll call. The council also asked the body to develop a plan for merit-based pay to consider for FY2028.

During budget deliberations the Reinbeck Fire Department agreed to reduce its medical and wellness line by $6,000 (the department noted they probably will not conduct physicals in FY2027). No final tax levy or definitive staffing changes were adopted; the council's action directed departments and boards to submit revised, reduced requests for the February meeting so the clerk can prepare updated budget documents.

Next steps: the library and other departments will submit revised budgets for the Feb. council meeting for further review and final decisions on revenues, levy and any additional staffing or program changes.