Lewiston Council Weighs Three Budget Cut Tiers Amid Tax Concerns

The Lewiston City Council reviewed three tiers of additional budget savings, ranging from $1 million to nearly $1.9 million, to address a significant tax levy increase. Councilors expressed divided opinions on whether to accept deeper cuts involving layoffs or to maintain current staffing levels while exploring other revenue sources. No formal vote was taken, and staff will present further details on a phased revaluation process at the next meeting.

Key points

• Staff presented three savings tiers: Tier 1 ($1.04M savings, no layoffs), Tier 2 ($1.43M savings, 3 layoffs), and Tier 3 ($1.89M savings, 8 total layoffs).
• Councilors debated the police take-home vehicle program, with some arguing it is essential for recruitment and long-term cost savings, while others questioned the financial impact.
• Councillor Chittim and Councillor Martel expressed concern over an 11.3% tax levy increase, suggesting that deeper cuts may be necessary to protect homeowners.
• Councillor Nagine stated he was not satisfied with any of the proposed tiers, noting that none reduced the operating expense increase to his preferred 3-3.5% range.
• A discrepancy was identified in the cost of the police vehicle trade-ins, which staff agreed to resolve before the next meeting.

Next steps

• Staff will present a detailed overview of the phased-in revaluation process and associated costs on Thursday.
• Police and finance staff will reconcile the discrepancy in the police vehicle trade-in figures.
• Council will reconvene to provide direction on the preferred budget tier, pending the return of Councillor Harriman.

Read the full transcript