Jamestown (CSi)  The Jamestown City Council, as the city budget committee met for the third time on Tuesday afternoon, at City Hall.

All members were present.

City Administrator Sarah Hellekson presented Draft Three.

She said three utility funds amounts  have been transferred into the General Fund in the amount of $900,000.

There is a 5.9 percent increase in the mill rate due to increased property valuations.

Proposed is 15-20 percent in most licenses including initial and renewal contractor licenses.

With the Civic Center revenue, it was stated that the National Guard Armory will remain the same.

Additional dollars are proposed for an additional city fire fighter, plus benefits.

City Fire Chief Jim Reuther said the department is short by eight fire fighters, and additional retirements are in the offing.

He said fire fighter safety gear continues to be needed.

Equipment depreciation was noted, not including fire trucks, not allowed under state law.

Police Chief Edinger suggests repairing radios instead of purchasing if replacement parts are available, to hold down costs.

Municipal Court budget will not be adjusted.

The Central Valley Health District budget will not be adjusted.

Other preliminary budgets discussed were:  Engineering, including consulting engineering costs.

Inspections Department, Forestry Department, City Hall, General Administration.

With Street Department budget, discussion was held on clearing snow after a four inch snow fall, instead of the current policy of after a two inch snowfall, to save expenditures, however no changes were made.

Ms. Hellekson said the present 2019 deficit is at $530,000.  An increase of 11 mills is needed to offset the deficit.

With city employee salary increases, Deputy City Auditor, Jay Sveum said there has been extensive turnovers, which in the long haul costs the city money, with training costs.

He noted the high costs of recruitment.

Mayor Heinrich said to help offset the General Fund deficit, the budget may need to include an increase in the mill levy.

Council Members Steele, and Phillips said the city will receive $500,000 less in state funds.

Due to a new state law which requires submittal by August 10th, earlier than past years.   The budget can be decreased but not increased from the submittal.

The budget then needs to be approved by the August 6, 2019 City Council meeting, to meet the August 10th deadline.

A copy of the entire Preliminary Budget Draft is available at City Hall.

Tuesday’s meeting was shown live on CSi Cable 67.