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Council previews 2025 amended budget; commissioner raises possible tax increases
Summary
Council members reviewed a 2025 amended budget draft to be presented Nov. 6. Commissioner Cole called this potentially the city's most difficult budget in three years and suggested a comprehensive approach including expense cuts, use of reserves, and consideration of a 2% tax increase; the mayor noted taxes may rise in 2026 to cover firefighter positions after the SAFER grant ends.
Finance and executive staff presented a preview of the 2025 amended budget and related quarterly financials. Commissioner (Speaker 4) said this budget season is difficult and urged a comprehensive approach: "cutting expenses, using reserve balances and as a council we should consider raising taxes, you know 2% — that's my position on it." Speaker 2 said an immediate vote was unlikely but that the amended budget would be distributed for review and a presentation is scheduled for Nov. 6.
Speakers discussed that longer-term fiscal pressures — including the end of a SAFER grant that helps fund firefighters — could require tax increases in 2026. The council agreed to continue reviewing the amended budget and seek input before any vote; no tax decision was made at this meeting.
