Residents urge council not to cut essential services as staff presents FY2027 budget and options

City staff presented a proposed FY2027 budget that includes a proposed property tax rate of $0.35 per $100 of valuation, a 2.5% salary increase for employees, water/sewer base‑rate adjustments and a garbage‑fee increase tied to contract terms. Finance staff said sales tax comprises nearly half of general‑fund revenue and public safety accounts for nearly 60% of general‑fund expenditures; staff recommended a balanced budget built on the proposed rate and outlined the schedule for workshops, hearings and adoption.

Several residents urged council to avoid cuts to essential services. Carolyn Seiler and Mara Smith asked council not to reduce animal‑shelter medical funding or road maintenance lines, warning of public‑safety and welfare consequences; Laurie Cook and another commenter urged consideration of tax increases paired with stronger economic development to expand the commercial tax base. Councilmembers debated using a portion of the fund balance versus raising taxes, requested alternative budget scenarios and directed staff to return with options and additional analysis.