Lewiston Council Delays Budget Vote to May 19 Amid Taxpayer Concerns

The Lewiston City Council postponed its decision on the FY27 budget to May 19 to allow time for public feedback and legal guidance on the amendment process. Councilors discussed significant overtime costs in public safety and public works, noting that contractual obligations limit immediate savings. The council also addressed growing public anxiety over recent property revaluations and the potential impact on local homeowners.

Key points

• Council agreed to move the city budget vote from May 5 to May 19, while keeping the school budget vote on May 5.
• Public Works and Police chiefs explained that overtime is largely driven by contractual minimum staffing levels and replacement needs for vacations and sick leave.
• Councilors expressed frustration that union contracts prevent scheduling changes that could reduce overtime, such as the K-schedule used in Auburn.
• Mayor Sheline and Councilors discussed using fund balance to lower the tax increase to approximately 9 percent, with preliminary support from the council.
• Councilors raised concerns about the financial impact of the recent property revaluation, with some urging a two-year delay to help residents adjust.
• The city announced that 28 vacant properties have been placed on the market, with offers expected to be presented at the next council meeting.

Next steps

• City Attorney will meet with the council on April 30 to provide guidance on budget amendment procedures.
• Administration will provide a breakdown of maintenance costs for each city park and vacant lot.
• Finance Director will calculate the specific dollar amounts required to reach the 3.3 percent CPI threshold.
• Council will review offers for the 28 vacant city properties at the next regular meeting.

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