Budget Committee 5/12/2025

The City of Milwaukie, Oregon Budget Committee convened on May 12, 2025, to review the fiscal year 2025 third quarter financial report and discuss the city's financial stability strategy. Key procurement-related discussions included budget adjustments to increase the parks budget by $800,000 to cover delayed expenditures, and the closure of the City Hall fund with a $146,000 transfer to the general fund for public art expenses. The committee also considered new revenue proposals to address rising expenses outpacing fixed revenues, including implementing a 3% credit card processing fee to offset $280,000 in transaction costs, installing photo red light and speed cameras estimated to generate $250,000 to $400,000 annually, and introducing a $7 public safety fee on utility bills projected to raise $850,000 annually. The public safety fee would fund police staffing and behavioral health support, with exemptions for low-income households. The committee discussed the equity and implementation timelines of these fees, emphasizing the need for public outreach and further analysis on tiered fee structures for commercial properties. No immediate property tax increase was recommended due to current economic uncertainties. The meeting concluded with general support for advancing the three revenue proposals and plans for community engagement and further council review.