The City of Ferndale's recent budget workshop highlighted critical investments in public works, particularly focusing on enhancing the city's forestry and infrastructure capabilities. A key takeaway from the meeting was the approval of a mini skid steer, essential for the forestry team’s daily operations, which will significantly improve tree maintenance efficiency. The $15,000 investment is projected to pay for itself within four years, considering the costs associated with renting equipment.

The workshop also showcased the success of the community tree planting program, which saw the planting of 108 trees last year, with residents covering approximately 75% of the costs. This program, priced at $175 per tree, has remained unchanged for three years and continues to be a popular initiative among residents.

Looking ahead, the council discussed a substantial capital project for the 2027 budget, earmarking $1.25 million for the 9 Mile and Withington Streetscape improvement. However, officials emphasized that this project would depend heavily on securing grant funding to proceed.

In terms of vehicle maintenance and replacement, the council is considering replacing aging equipment, including a main skid steer and a front-end loader, to ensure the efficiency of public works operations. The current fleet replacement strategy has been extended beyond ideal timelines, with some vehicles being pushed to 12 years or more before replacement.

The meeting underscored the importance of proactive maintenance and investment in infrastructure, with officials expressing optimism about the city's ability to manage its resources effectively while addressing deferred maintenance issues, particularly in the urban tree canopy program. As the city navigates its budgetary priorities, these discussions set the stage for future improvements in Ferndale's public services.