The City Council on Aug. 7 approved a preliminary resolution to advertise the maximum proposed rate for the city’s preliminary fire assessment, part of the budget process to fund six additional fire‑department positions. City staff told the council that the resolution sets the highest rate that may be adopted; the council can adopt a lower rate at the final hearing but cannot adopt a higher one.

Staff said the process mirrors ad valorem tax advertising: the preliminary resolution sets the maximum rate, followed by budget and public hearings. The final hearing on the FY‑2026 budget and assessments is scheduled for Sept. 3, 2025.

Councilman Carter moved to approve the resolution at the advertised maximum; the motion carried 5–0 on roll call. Staff said public notice and further budget analysis will follow in advance of the Sept. 3 hearing.