Lowell City Council - June 2, 2026

The Lowell City Council held a meeting on June 2, 2026, primarily focused on reviewing and approving the FY2027 budget and related capital improvement projects. Key procurement-related discussions included budget approvals for various city departments such as law, elections, planning and development, police, public works, parks and cemetery, health, library, wastewater, parking, water, and solid waste and recycling. The council debated cuts and restorations of positions, notably the historic board administrator in the planning department, with concerns raised about the impact of cuts on city services and development projects. The council also approved a capital plan loan order to borrow approximately $5 million for various capital improvements, including building repairs and infrastructure projects. Additionally, the council discussed and approved ordinances amending water and sewer rates for FY27. Several motions to amend budget line items were proposed and voted on, reflecting priorities and fiscal constraints. The meeting included detailed discussions on indirect cost allocations, enterprise fund operations, and the impact of budget decisions on city services and infrastructure maintenance.