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Council tables vote on proposed capital improvements levy amid questions on timing and ballot language
Summary
Council discussed but tabled a proposal to call a Sept. 8 special election for a capital improvements levy (67.5¢ per $1,000, 10-year sunset); staff estimated ~$315,787 annual revenue and example household impacts; members sought more detail and options for election timing.
Council considered a staff resolution to call a special city election on Sept. 8, 2026, asking voters to establish a capital improvements reserve levy of 67.5¢ per $1,000 of taxable value for 10 years to fund pavement and street-improvement projects. Staff estimated the levy would generate roughly $315,787 in the first year and gave example household impacts: approximately $44.62 on a $148,000 assessed home and $90.32 on a $300,000 assessed home.
Council members raised questions about whether the item had been explicitly directed during prior budget sessions, the cost of a special election (about $12,000), and whether the city could instead include the question on another election to reduce cost and voter fatigue. Several members emphasized narrowing ballot language (the previous attempt failed because voters perceived the prior levy as too broad) and suggested listing targeted projects or otherwise clarifying the uses. Concerns were also raised about whether utility-related expenses should be excluded.
After extended discussion, a motion to table the resolution until the July 20 meeting passed by roll call, giving staff time to confirm election options with the county auditor and to return with refined ballot language and additional project prioritization materials.
What’s next: staff will check auditor timelines/possibilities for inclusion in another election, prepare clarified ballot language and a prioritized project list, and return to council on July 20.
