The Whitehall City Council met on May 27, 2025, for a full agenda that included approving the upcoming fiscal year’s budget, addressing community concerns, and recognizing local efforts.
Here are the key takeaways:
Public Hearing on the Budget
The council opened the public hearing on the proposed $12 million budget for 2025–2026. Staff emphasized fiscal caution, noting the importance of recovering from last summer’s costly storm damage.
During public comment, residents raised several issues:
- Opposition to the Playhouse’s proposed $90,000 advertising and marketing budget, with suggestions to reduce it.
- Debate over the police budget, with some council members and residents pointing out that past communications seemed to promise staffing reductions after the police chief’s retirement.
- Concerns about road conditions, especially on Lake Street and Benston Road, calling for increased investment in repairs.
Council Member Budget Amendments
Council members introduced and approved several targeted amendments:
- $1,000 for the Whitehall Community Garden project led by Amber Marks.
- $1,000 in scholarship funds to support up to two student representatives from Whitehall High School serving on the council.
- $1,000 for contracted grant writing services to pursue new funding opportunities.
Playhouse Funding Update
The council voted to adjust Playhouse funding to $40,000 for the next year, scaling it back from the initially proposed $90,000. Several council members emphasized the need for the Playhouse to move toward financial self-sufficiency.
Utility Rates
The council approved keeping sewer rates unchanged but passed a 10 percent increase in water rates to cover the continued costs of lead and copper line replacements required by the state.
HealthWest Presentation on Psychological First Aid
HealthWest’s Kara Jaekel gave a presentation on free mental health resources available to residents. She encouraged community members to get involved in psychological first aid efforts, highlighting its impact on addressing trauma and mental health crises.
Other Council Actions
- Approved annual special assessments to cover unpaid utility bills, stump removal, mowing, and rental inspections.
- Approved the Walk the Beat event request, which will bring live music and food trucks to the downtown area.
- Discussed the costs and design details for the new pocket park bathroom near the downtown marina.
- Recognized the upcoming retirement of Police Chief Roger Squires and welcomed the incoming leadership of Chief Mahoney.
Public Comments
Community members spoke on various topics, including concerns over proposed Flock license plate reader cameras, water meter readings, and the importance of maintaining local parks.
For more details on Whitehall city government and upcoming meetings, visit the City of Whitehall website at cityofwhitehall.org.
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