University Heights FY26 Amended Budget Special Meeting of 5/19/2026

The City of Iowa City held a special meeting on May 19, 2026, to consider amendments to the fiscal year 2026 budget and address several procurement-related matters. The council approved adjustments to revenue projections, including increased hotel motel and local option sales taxes, and made expense modifications such as reducing police health insurance costs and increasing legal and bond-related fees. A significant procurement action was the acceptance of a bid and awarding of the construction contract for the Melrose Avenue Pavement Repair and Utility Improvements Project to American Excavation and Concrete LLC, following a thorough vetting of the low bidder's references. Additionally, the council passed a resolution to end the subsidy for recycling pickup services, shifting full cost responsibility to residents, aligning with regional practices. Discussions also included fencing replacement options for a playground area, with cost considerations and safety concerns noted, though no final procurement decision was made. The meeting concluded with the renewal of Stella's liquor license, a longstanding city license.