In a recent city commission meeting, officials discussed significant updates regarding a new pipeline project and the upcoming fiscal year 2025 budget. The meeting highlighted the proactive measures being taken to address community concerns about the pipeline, which will run near residential areas. City officials assured residents that the project team would be responsive to any issues that arise, emphasizing the importance of maintaining open communication.

The pipeline, which is nearly 50 years old, will be installed deep enough to avoid disturbing the Cherry Creek area, with drilling starting at four feet below ground and reaching approximately 30 feet at its deepest point. This initiative aims to prevent potential failures similar to past incidents experienced in other cities.

The meeting also marked the final public hearing for the city’s budget, which is set to begin on October 1, 2024. Chief Financial Officer Andrew Thompson presented a budget that includes a reduction in the operating millage rate from 5.8362 to 5.7243 mills, marking the tenth reduction in eleven years. This reduction is expected to save taxpayers over $17 million since 2013. The budget also includes a $40 million capital improvement program, focusing on infrastructure and facility upgrades.

Thompson noted that the budget remains conservative, with general fund reserves maintained at approximately 22% of expenditures. However, challenges such as rising pension costs, public safety expenses, and inflation continue to impact financial planning. The city has seen a significant increase in its property tax base, which has expanded by nearly 15%, contributing to new revenue streams.

Public comments during the meeting reflected support for the budget, with residents appreciating the responsible fiscal management and the focus on maintaining service levels despite rising costs. The commission is expected to adopt the final budget and millage rates in the coming weeks, with the total citywide budget projected at $166.2 million for the next fiscal year.