Garden City finance director says litigation created fire‑funding gap; council schedules two public hearings on proposed millage increase

Garden City’s Finance Director, identified in the meeting only as Katie, told residents that a recent court action has left the city unable to collect fire protection user fees and that the gap must be addressed through other means, including a proposed increase in the city’s millage rate.

"Due to recent litigation, the city can no longer charge the fire protection user fees, leaving a funding gap for fire services," Katie said. She reported the fire department’s adopted budget is $4,500,000, historically funded by about $1,400,000 in fire protection fees, $359,000 in miscellaneous revenue and a roughly $2,700,000 general‑fund subsidy; staff made $500,000 in reductions before presenting the proposed millage increase.

Katie explained that reserves are intended for emergencies and cash‑flow stabilization and that continuously using reserves for ongoing operations could force larger tax increases later. She said the city previously 'rolled back' the millage each year from 2014 through 2024 as the tax digest grew but that slower digest growth now may necessitate additional revenue.

City Manager Rhonda Ferrell announced two additional public hearings on the proposed millage rate: Monday, July 13 at 04:00 and Monday, July 20 at 06:00 at City Hall. Residents questioned staff during the public comment period; some urged the council to approve the millage to avoid cuts that would affect services and employees, while others raised concerns about taxpayer burden and asked about alternative savings.

No vote occurred at the town hall; staff encouraged residents to attend the scheduled hearings for further discussion and formal public input.