Hope City Board
The Hope City Board held their first meeting of December on Tuesday (12-3). The meeting kicked off with a report on the city audit. The audit was done by William C. Miller, LLC. There were no significant findings and no weaknesses in internal controls.
The board looked at a proposed budget for 2025. City Manager J.R. Wilson noted there is a $1,000 cost of living increase for all employees except the city manager. He also pointed out a new option on health insurance. Street turnback has increased, the per capital general turnback decreased but the amount overall has increased. Turnback is the city’s share of sales taxes collected by the state. Wilson also pointed out some funds for automating payroll will be carried over as the city was unable to implement that in 2024. Also noted was the city is waiting to hear back on grant funding to help pay for a splash pad. Some improvements on the Fair Park Community Center for 2025 were discussed. Wilson pointed out some proposed work at the airport. Sanitation improvements were noted. These include work on a lift station and filter work. Wilson also recommended some reduction in beautification committee funds as the city has probably “topped out” on Christmas decorations. Wilson also went through the police and park budgets.
Assistant City Manager Daniel Shelman went over the public works budgets. Some of the issues he discussed with the board included airport grants He also highlighted street and sanitation issues. The board also discussed street lights and traffic signals. Another issue discussed was the contract for aerial photography.
The board went into executive session and came back to approve Christmas bonuses for $500 for full -time employees and $250 for part-time employees.
The board approved a budget resolution for the 2025 budget. The balanced budget is for $15,070,094.
Under the city manager’s report, J.R. Wilson discussed a loan the city could apply for. He also talked about some bids for dredging and automated valves. Wilson also said the city hopes to advertise for a piece of property for the new fire department.
The board discussed a storage area for the city ladder truck until the new fire department is built.
Mayor Still noted 6th Street is finished and asked what the process is for identifying the next state-aid street project. Wilson explained the process. Mayor Still noted these projects can be substantial.
Traffic lights were discussed. The board voted to not meet on the 17th. The lighted flags in two Christmas displays were discussed. The board agreed to aim for those decorations to be used on other appropriate holidays. The meeting then adjourned.