City of Ashland City

The City Council conducted the first reading of the Fiscal Year 2026/2027 Budget ordinance. Discussion focused on projected budget deficits for upcoming fiscal years and the potential necessity of a property tax increase to balance the budget. Various perspectives were shared regarding the utilization of reserve funds, the impact of inflation on operating costs, and future capital projects such as the Bicentennial Trail and emergency radio system. Ultimately, the budget ordinance was approved on the first reading without amendments to property taxes.

The Planning Commission conducted officer elections, appointing a new Chair and Secretary. The commission reviewed and approved a site plan for Alliance Machine, subject to staff comments being addressed prior to permit issuance. Additionally, the 2026 meeting calendar was approved with an amendment to the September meeting date.

The meeting focuses on the discussion of Ordinance 649, which pertains to the 2026-2027 fiscal budget.

This was a special called workshop meeting for the city council, focused on local governance matters and agenda items relevant to the municipality.

The board discussed the Fiscal Year 2026/2027 budget, including a proposal to increase the employee Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) from 2% to 3%. Key topics included the acquisition of a new radio system for the Police and Fire Departments, with a comparison of financing and infrastructure costs. The board also reviewed Fire Department capital requests, concerns regarding reliance on fund balances and deficit spending, and potential strategies for using Hotel/Motel Tax revenues. Additionally, there was a discussion on departmental staffing efficiency, the importance of retaining employees through competitive compensation, and the historical issue of inflated revenue projections in past budgets.