West Branch council adopts FY2025 budget, increases police funding and trims several programs

The West Branch City Council adopted the final fiscal year 2025 budget on April 15, approving a 71% increase to the police department budget — an increase Kofoed said totals roughly $314,000 from the general fund — to support staffing a five-officer department.

City Administrator Adam Kofoed said the increase is aimed at recruitment and retention. To offset the higher policing cost, Kofoed said the city would eliminate a part-time Parks & Recreation position, end the West Branch building incentive program, cut one library position and reduce city involvement and expenses for Hoover’s Hometown Days. He also said the city plans to add a full-time Utility Billing/Deputy Clerk position.

Mayor Roger Laughlin opened the public hearing on the proposed budget; no members of the public spoke. The Council approved Resolution 2024-30 to adopt the final budget. The vote was recorded in favor by Councilmembers Tom Dean, Mike Horihan, Nick Goodweiler and Jodee Stoolman; there were no recorded nays.

Kofoed highlighted FY2024 accomplishments during his presentation, noting approvals for a new family dental office and an assisted-living center, the completion of Eastside Water Main Phase 1, near completion of the Wastewater Treatment Facility improvements and the Herbert Hoover Highway roundabout (about 50% funded by Johnson County). He also noted administrative improvements including launch of e-billing and automated water meter reading.

The Council also set a May 6, 2024 public hearing to consider a proposed FY2024 budget amendment under Resolution 2024-31.