Presque Isle Council reviews 2027 budget for police, public works, and solid waste

The Presque Isle City Council held its second 2027 budget workshop, reviewing proposals for the police department, public works, utilities, recreation, solid waste, and the industrial park. Department heads presented financial updates, highlighting staffing changes, infrastructure maintenance needs, and revenue projections for the upcoming fiscal year.

Key points

• Police Chief Hayes proposed a $14,949 increase for the public safety building budget, driven by higher fuel, electricity, and janitorial costs, while noting a $20,000 reduction in overtime due to improved staffing levels.
• Public Works Director Nate requested an increase in the asphalt budget from $400,000 to $600,000 to address deferred road maintenance, and sought funding for a new excavator and a single-axle plow truck.
• Solid Waste Director Dana reported that the department generates a net revenue of approximately $347,915, with a proposed $2 per ton increase in tip fees effective March 1 to align with regional rates.
• The Industrial Council reported total rental revenue of $1,337,000, a 2.8% increase, and noted that $60,000 of the surplus will be added to reserve accounts for future growth.
• Recreation Director Steve highlighted a new sponsorship revenue stream from local businesses and announced a 10th-anniversary celebration for the department on October 24.

Next steps

• The next budget workshop is scheduled for November 9 at 5:15 p.m.
• The Recreation Department will hold a 10th-anniversary luncheon and celebration on October 24.
• Public Works aims to order a new plow truck within 30 days to avoid potential EPA emission fees and model year price increases.

Read the full transcript