Meeting Summary
The city council conference meeting focused on the FY 2025 Capital Improvement Program (CIP) update and preparation for the FY 2026 CIP. A significant projected negative balance of $7.6 million for new FY2026 projects was highlighted, emphasizing the need for careful project selection and alternative funding. Discussions also covered ongoing projects, funding sources, and future challenges including the Central Library remediation and fleet replacement.
Financial Matters
FY 2026 Capital Fund Availability
Estimated available funds for new projects in FY 2026 are projected at a negative $7.6 million, indicating significant budget constraints for new capital initiatives.
Capital Sales Tax
The Capital Improvements Fund is supported by a 7/10 of 1% sales tax approved in 1976, primarily for projects without dedicated revenue sources.
Bridge Maintenance Bond Program
A 10-year, $50 million program approved by voters in October 2023 for replacing or rehabilitating 18 bridges.
Porter Avenue Project Grant
A $13.8 million grant was recently secured from the Absentee Shawnee Tribe for the Porter Avenue project, potentially freeing up funds for other bridge projects.
ARPA Funding for Emergency Communications and Operations Center (EOC)
The EOC received ARPA funds to harden the facility against natural disasters.
ARPA Funding for Lower Imhoff Creek Stabilization Project
The Lower Imhoff Creek stabilization project received ARPA funding.
ARPA Funding for Affordable Housing
Approximately $6.2 million in ARPA funds, including HOME ARPA, is allocated to affordable housing projects, with a significant portion for the Crimson Flats development.
Central Library Building Maintenance Budget
The current fiscal year's building maintenance budget for the Central Library is approximately $700,000, used for ongoing cleanup and minor remediation efforts due to leaks and mold.
Central Library Weather Event Cleanup Costs
The city incurs costs of approximately $60,000 to $70,000 per significant weather event for cleanup and drying out the Central Library building.
Fleet Vehicle Replacement Needs
A 2015 study indicated a need to replace approximately $6 million in vehicles annually, but the city currently averages about $2 million per year due to budget constraints.
Center City Tiff Fund
The Center City Tiff fund is collecting revenue and has funds available for projects, with an Urban Design and Implementation Plan underway to guide future initiatives.
Coming Up
Tabled
- Boards and Commissions modifications (postponed due to ongoing staff work).
Deadlines
- ARPA funds must be obligated (under contract) by December 31, 2024.
- ARPA funds must be expended by December 31, 2026.
- HOME ARPA funds must be expended by 2030.
Watch For
- March 4th: Council session to discuss FY2026 project requests.
- May 6th: Review of the City Manager's proposed preliminary CIP budget.
- June: Budget adoption.
- Next meeting: Agenda item to shift ARPA funds to the Boyd Street project.
- Public Safety Study results.
- Area-wide infrastructure master plan updates.
- Central Library mold remediation and repairs (status of legal process and potential council decision on upfront funding).
- Griffin and Sutton parks and Griffin Hospital campus project (related to property sale).
- Failing storm water infrastructure projects.
- Police Department space utilization/new facility discussion.
- FEMA grant for flood warning system.
- Fleet facility renovation (phases 2 & 3).
- Fleet fueling facility tank replacement.
- Fleet vehicle replacement.
- Zoning ordinance overhaul (potential grant application, general fund consideration).
- ACOG policy changes regarding federal funding.
Announcements
- Introduction of the new Public Works Director.
Agenda Summary
FY 2025 Capital Improvement Program (CIP) Update and FY 2026 CIP Preparation
Presentation by Budget Analyst Jacob Huckaby on the status of the FY2025 CIP, important dates for the FY2026 CIP process, definitions of capital projects, funding sources, and the projected negative balance for new FY2026 projects. Various completed and ongoing projects were reviewed, along with upcoming challenges.
Boards and Commissions Modifications
Staff is still working on modifications to the boards and commissions.