Angela Smith

The council held a special meeting to discuss the fiscal year 2026-2027 budget. The session included a detailed review of departmental priorities, with a focus on public safety, police and fire operations, and technology funding. Discussions also addressed capital projects, including the acquisition of a ladder truck, the management of special training funds, and the evaluation of general fund budget components and revenue streams. Operational needs, performance-based compensation structures, and long-term financial planning were among the key items reviewed by the council and city management.

The council held a high-level discussion regarding municipal budget priorities for the upcoming fiscal year. Key topics included reviewing prioritized operation requests from the police and fire departments, such as necessary station remodels and the acquisition of a new ladder truck. The discussion also covered financial projections, the status of special donation funds, and the proposal of a new pay scale for city employees designed to improve competitiveness and retention. The city manager noted upcoming challenges regarding personnel salary structures and requested clear direction from the council on handling future pay adjustments and cost-of-living increases.

The meeting included public communications regarding the de-annexation process for the Lakeside acres area, concerns about city code enforcement, animal control, and zoning regulations. Representatives from a local bar and an entertainment equipment business discussed the importance of amusement machines for business operations and requested that the city consider their economic impact during the regulatory process. The council passed a consent agenda that included various ordinance amendments pertaining to the Fire Department, emergency management, finance and taxation, records management, park facilities, water and wastewater, procurement policies, utilities, solid waste management, and sewers. Additionally, the council recognized an outgoing council member and administered oaths of office to newly elected members and the mayor, followed by an action to elect a mayor pro tem.

The board discussed arrangements for an upcoming city festival, including the selection and booking of bounce houses and interactive game inflatables. Members decided to purchase promotional items, specifically foldable fans, to be distributed to attendees. Additionally, the board reviewed the status of band bookings for the event and engaged in a preliminary discussion regarding setting ticket prices for the activity zone.

The City Council conducted a canvassing of the recent election votes. The session included a detailed breakdown of voter participation, methods of voting, and final results for the races of mayor at large, council place two, and council place four. Official certificates were signed to certify the election results, confirming the winners for each position.