During a recent Verona city council meeting, Jeff Gravelinger, an elder at the Redeemer Bible Fellowship, addressed concerns regarding a significant rent increase for the church's leased property at 130 North Franklin Street. Gravelinger expressed gratitude for the city's past support, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic when rent was frozen due to decreased attendance and donations.

The church, which operates independently without external financial support, was initially prepared for a rent increase of up to $500 per month. However, the city has proposed a one-year lease with a 40% increase, raising the monthly rent to $7,000. This sudden hike poses a financial challenge for the church, which relies solely on weekly donations.

Gravelinger requested the city consider a more gradual increase, suggesting a starting rent of $5,500 in October, followed by an additional $500 increase six months later. This approach would allow the church time to assess its financial situation and plan accordingly.

In other council business, the minutes from the previous meeting were approved, and updates were provided on various city projects, including the East View Road reconstruction and the upcoming public hearing for the Wildcat Pit conditional use permit. The council also approved a Connect Communities Agreement with the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation, aimed at revitalizing downtown areas.

The meeting concluded with discussions on the fifth addendum to the commercial lease agreement for the Redeemer Bible Fellowship, which will be revisited in light of the church's concerns.