Budget Hearing - Sept. 8 at 4:00pm

The City of Homewood held a budget hearing on September 8, 2026, focusing primarily on reviewing revisions to the proposed budget since the previous meeting on August 10. The discussion covered general fund revenues, including tax revenues, municipal fines, and various fees, as well as contractual services and capital vehicle expenses. Key procurement-related topics included a forthcoming contract with Axon for tasers valued at $62,000 annually, and concerns about bidding processes for contracts such as creek cleaning and tree removal, with council members emphasizing the need for competitive bidding and contract consolidation to achieve cost savings. The meeting also addressed the establishment of an Other Post-Employment Benefits (OPEB) trust funded with $1 million from carryover funds, and the management of debt service payments related to bond financing. No votes were taken during this session; the full budget approval vote is scheduled for September 28. The council requested further information on contract bidding practices and abatement agreements for future discussions.