Finance Committee | January 13th, 2025

The City of Watertown Finance Committee convened on January 13, 2025, to address several personnel and administrative matters. Key procurement-related discussions included approval of retroactive step increases for multiple city employees in the Wastewater and Water Divisions based on certification achievements, reflecting budgetary impacts on payroll. The committee also reviewed and approved an e-recording agreement with Jefferson County to digitize document processing, which may streamline future administrative procurement. Additionally, the committee approved the write-off of unclaimed funds and delinquent personal property taxes totaling approximately $15,000, with arrangements for reimbursement from other taxing entities. The meeting concluded with a closed session to discuss upcoming union contract negotiations, focusing on a proposed one-year contract primarily addressing wages and insurance contributions, with plans to initiate negotiations before July 2025. No new contracts or vendor selections were made, but the discussions set the stage for future labor-related procurement and budget considerations.