Common Council / September 8, 2026

The City of Hartford Common Council held a meeting on September 8, 2026, with key procurement and budget discussions focused on funding for emergency medical services (EMS) through a Washington County levy proposal. The council reviewed a detailed presentation on the EMS funding strategy, which involves reallocating existing county sales tax revenue to provide approximately $245,000 in additional funding for Hartford in 2027, increasing to an estimated $432,000 by 2031. This funding would support hiring two full-time firefighters and operational costs for a new fire station, without increasing the city's property tax levy limits. The council discussed the levy’s structure, oversight, and potential future increases, emphasizing that the funding is supplemental and not a replacement for current budgets. Additionally, the council approved the appointment of a new public works director and accepted a $100,000 quote from Lee Recreation for the purchase and installation of a playground at Independence Park, funded partly by donations and CIP funds. A resolution was also passed regarding special assessments for unpaid utility and business improvement district accounts.