Council Sets Maximum Budget At $34.9 Million

The City Council cannot spend more than $34.89 million next year.

The council met briefly Monday night to set the maximum city budget for next year - as required by state law.

Now, “it can only go down,” City Finance Director John Austin said.

Next year’s city spending plan includes $850,000 for a new police station, $700,000 for a new water well and more than $1 million for several major street construction projects. Overall spending will increase $3 million. But residents will pay slightly less in city property taxes than last year.

“It’s more of a direction of growth bearing the cost of growth,” Austin said. “We are relying heavily on annexation fees, impact fees and the additional taxes paid by new residents to help lower the cost to existing residents.”

Mayor Steve Judy also is presenting a budget - the first time in city history that’s been done. Judy’s proposed budget is about $50,000 lower than the one drafted by city staff.

However, the mayor doesn’t vote on any city business, including spending matters, unless there is a tie.

The budget next comes before the City Council Aug. 25 at 5:15 p.m. when the council meets in study session.

A public hearing will be held Sept. 1 at City Hall at 6 p.m.

“The public is invited and encouraged to attend,” Austin said.