HomeMy WebLinkAboutSigned Minutes 03-28-25 Retreat1
. a Minutes of the Arlington
City Council Spring Retreat
Council Chambers
110 East 3rd Street
Friday, March 28, 2025
Councilmembers Present: Heather Logan, Rob Toyer, Debora Nelson, Michele Blythe
Yvonne Gallardo-Van Ornam, Leisha Nobach, and Jan Schuette.
Council Members Absent: None.
Staff Present: Mayor Don Vanney, Paul Ellis, Sarah Lopez, Shawn Friang, Bryan Terry,
Kristin Garcia, Jonathan Ventura, Mike Gilbert, Peter Barrett, Jim Kelly, Marc Hayes, Amy
Rusko, Marty Wray, and Wendy Van Der Meersche. Mike Wolanek joined after lunch.
Also Known to be Present: Kathy Vanney and Steve Peiffle.
Former City Attorney Steve Peiffle acted as facilitator and began the retreat at 9:00 a.m. Mr.
Peiffle welcomed everyone.
Mr. Peiffle introduced City Administrator Paul Ellis, who provided an overview of the
2025-2026 Strategic Priorities from the 2025-2026 budget.
Finance Director Kristin Garcia reviewed the ten-year financial plan and current revenues
and expenses. Ms. Garcia reviewed the state of the economy and the outlook for the next 10
years. The general fund, which pays for most employees' salaries and significantly supports
the police department, is primarily fueled by retail sales tax and property tax. Notably, 45%
of this fund is generated through sales tax. Over the last quarter, there has been a drop in
sales tax, and with the decline, the council was asked to look at options over the next several
months, that would increase revenue and decrease expenses. Meanwhile Ms. Garcia will be
monitoring the sales tax revenue trends. Discussion followed with Mr. Ellis and Ms. Garcia
answering Council questions.
Public Works Director Jim Kelly reviewed utility projects and transportation projects.
Community and Economic Development Deputy Director Amy Rusko reviewed community
development projects. Community and Economic Development Director Marc Hayes
provided an update regarding Island Crossing subarea.
Human Resources Director Shawn Friang provided updates about HR update, and
emergency management.
IT Director Bryan Terry provided an IT update.
Page 1 of 2
Minutes of the City of Arlington City Council Budget -Retreat March 2$ 2025
Airport Director Marty Wray provided an Airport update.
ADDITIONAL DISCUSSION ITEMS
Councilmembers provided closing thoughts.
ADJOURNMENT
With nothing further, the retreat was adjourned at 2:27 p.m.
C_
Don E. Vanney, Mayor
Page 2 of 2