City Manager Scott Neil presented a proposed $26 million budget that would bring the total tax levy to $61.5 million, marking a significant increase driven largely by public safety investments and rising operational costs.

The centerpiece of the spending plan is a new Fire Station 2, scheduled to open in 2025, which will add six paramedic-firefighters to the city's emergency response team. The budget also includes funding for three additional police officers. Together, these public safety expansions account for nearly 55% of the proposed levy increase.

"It is going to be a very expensive year in 2025, however I think the tradeoff in terms of the investment back into the city — the residents are very supportive," Neil told the council, citing community backing for enhanced emergency services.

Council members expressed concern about the size of the increase and asked city staff to find ways to reduce costs without cutting services. The base budget, excluding new initiatives, rose 5.9% due to higher employee compensation, benefits, energy costs, technology expenses, and vehicle maintenance. A change to the city's policy for funding local street reconstruction adds another 0.5% to the levy.

The budget maintains current funding levels for parks, street repairs, snow removal, and environmental programs. Capital improvements include accessibility upgrades such as automatic doors, electric vehicle charging stations, gender-neutral bathrooms, and Americans with Disabilities Act enhancements at city facilities. Residents can weigh in on the final budget at a public hearing scheduled for December 3rd at 7:00 PM.