Work Session and Regular City Council Meeting 10 28 2026

The City of La Center held a budget work session and regular City Council meeting on October 28, 2026. Council reviewed the preliminary 2027 budget, but did not adopt it; staff was asked to arrange another review before the planned November 18 public hearings. The budget projects roughly $19 million in grants for road projects, $2.5 million in capital-project spending, and major sewer investments, including $2.8 million for an MBR membrane and $3.5 million for a screw press and building. The city also expects to use impact fees and other funds for grant matches and park improvements. Council discussed a 1% property-tax increase, which would require a decision in November, and a proposed $15,000 single audit. The budget includes $100,000 for lobbying and $80,000 for grant-writing services; the city reported that the state lobbyist helped secure funding for downtown and infrastructure projects.

Council approved a contract with Clark and Sons Excavating, Inc. for asphalt work at the Timmen Road turn and a Holly Park batting cage, for up to $17,137 including a 20% contingency; staff will report the final cost. Council also approved a one-year 2027 extension of the Gordon Thomas Honeywell governmental-affairs contract for $39,360. A public hearing was held on a proposed latecomers agreement for downtown 2.0 infrastructure, but no vote was taken; staff planned to notify affected property owners and receive responses before the matter returns to Council. Council also considered the comprehensive-plan update and related development-code amendments, including housing, climate resilience, transportation, and land-use provisions; the transcript’s account of the motion and appeal direction is unclear.