Work Session

CITY OF MARSHALL WORK SESSION MINUTES Tuesday, August 27, 2024 The work session of the Common Council of the City of Marshall was held August 27, 2024, at City Hall, 344 West Main Street. The meeting was called to order at 3:00 P.M. by Mayor Robert Byrnes. In addition to Byrnes the following members were in attendance: Steve Meister, Craig Schafer (via Zoom), Amanda Schroeder, James Lozinski and See Moua- Leske. Absent: John Alcorn. Staff present included: Sharon Hanson; City Administrator; E.J. Moberg, Director of Administrative Services; Jason Anderson, Director of Public Works/City Engineer; Karla Drown, Finance Director; Jim Marshall, Director of Public Safety; Quentin Brunsvold, Fire Chief; Dave Parson, City Assessor; Dean Coudron, Public Ways Supervisor; Preston Stensrud, Park and Recreation Supervisor; and Steven Anderson, City Clerk. Preliminary 2025 Budget Hanson began the meeting by reviewing the budget goals that included continued infrastructure improvements and maintenance, meeting required regulations in surface water and wastewater treatment, retaining market competitive salaries and benefits, enhancing the quality of life for citizens through trails, parks, facilities, and public safety. Moberg reviewed various bonding impacts of $4.7 million on the levy, which included acquisition of Helena Chemical and the new Fire Department Aerial Truck. The Capital Equipment levy had $600,000 of requests and would need to be pared down to the proposed $300,000. Parsons continued the discussion by explaining the preliminary tax base changes. Moberg pivoted by talking about the levy history and what made up the largest impacts of the proposed 2025 levy increase. Marshall and Hanson spoke about the need for the Police Department to continue to hire because of leaves, retirements and deployments. Along with the Police Department Hanson mentioned that the city was in discussion with Marshall Public Schools to come to an agreement about a shared maintenance worker. Moberg continued the presentation by breaking down revenue changes, tax abatement requests, and employee salaries. The proposed preliminary levy would be an increase of 14.25% from 2024. Councilmembers expressed their opinions on the levy increase. Lozinski was adamant that the increase should not exceed 9% and Meister was in concurrence. Schroeder asked about pushing the City Band Shell project and investigate soliciting donations. Councilmembers wished to have one additional work session on September 10 after the regular city council meeting to further hash out the levy. Adjournment At 4:35 PM Mayor Byrnes adjourned the meeting. Attest: _________________________ _________________________ Steven Anderson, City Clerk Robert Byrnes, Mayor