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Windsor Heights council previews FY2026 budget, approves award for 68th Street South reconstruction
Summary
Council reviewed the FY2026 budget draft (proposing a three-cent reduction in total tax levy funded from an employee-benefits reserve), discussed capital projects and equipment needs, and approved Resolution No. 20251 to award the 68th Street South reconstruction contract to the low bidder as announced.
At its Feb. 3, 2025 meeting, the Windsor Heights City Council received an overview of the proposed FY2026 budget, discussed a set of capital projects and equipment-replacement proposals, and approved a resolution awarding the 68th Street South reconstruction contract.
Finance and staff presented the FY2026 highlights: estimated revenues of about $11.6 million, projected expense growth of roughly 3.41% and an estimated net increase in loss of about $1.54 million for the year as presented. Staff proposed a three-cent decrease to the total tax levy rate, funded from an employee-benefits reserve; staff characterized those reserves as available but noted they are designated for employee benefits and can be restored if needed.
The draft capital-improvement program highlighted several near-term projects, including full reconstruction of 68th Street South, Forest Court work, signal upgrades on University Avenue and the 73rd Street corridor, a storm-sewer project tied to Kobe Park and planned anti-icing/brine equipment for snow operations. Staff explained some TIF proceeds had freed unexpected funds that could be considered to accelerate localized projects.
During the public hearing on the 68th Street South project, staff reported five bids and recommended awarding the base bid and an alternate to the low bidder as identified in the packet. The council considered Resolution No. 20251 to award the project; a motion and second were recorded and the roll-call vote recorded Joseph Jones, Michael Libby and Lauren Campbell voting yes, approving the award.
Public-safety and equipment matters discussed included a recommendation from the ambulance committee to purchase an ambulance from Legacy Emergency Vehicles (vendor cited as in-state) with an estimated delivery of 18–24 months and a $5,000 discount if 10% down payment is made. Police and public-safety ERP items—vehicle replacements, rugged laptops, and body-cam storage upgrades—were presented; staff discussed a proposed social-worker/co-responder model with Urbandale for behavioral-health calls.
Next steps: staff will continue budget work sessions, hold individual council budget meetings and return with the proposed tax levy and capital plan in the coming weeks. The council approved Resolution No. 20251 and otherwise left budget decisions for future work sessions.
