Author: Jim Fahrenbach
Budget process overview, public EV chargers, and more!
Meeting Opening and Roll Call
(19:47) The meeting was called to order, and a roll call was conducted. It was noted that Alderman Vogelsinger’s position was vacant.
Agenda Adjustments and Approvals
(21:11) The minutes from the August 26, 2025 meeting were approved.
(21:49) An item for the sale or purchase of electricity was added to the executive session.
(22:19) The consent agenda, including a resolution for a porch addition at 744 Thorson Lane, was approved.
Zoning and Property Amendments
(23:01) Ordinance 2025 045: An amendment to the official zoning map for the property at 873 to 875 North Randall Road was approved. The change will allow a bank to occupy the long-vacant lot by increasing the non-sales tax generating usage from 25% to 30% and permitting financial institutions in the zoning area.
(25:33) Ordinance 2025 046: An amendment to the zoning map for 915-917 Main Street was approved. The rezoning from R0 to R1L will allow a developer to create a new lot for a home between two existing houses. The developer will also connect all three properties to city utilities and make payments for tree preservation and street improvements.
Public EV Charging Rates
(32:26) A discussion was held regarding public electric vehicle (EV) charging rates. The city staff proposed lowering the rate for the level two charger at City Hall from 40 cents to 25 cents per kilowatt-hour. For the upcoming level three chargers, they proposed a rate of 50 cents per kilowatt-hour and a fee of $1 per minute after a 10-minute grace period to prevent loitering. The committee decided to extend the grace period to 30 minutes.
2026 Budget Presentation
(44:02) A presentation on the 2026 budget was given to the committee. The presentation focused on the difference between an austerity and an investment approach to budgeting, highlighting challenges such as:Expanding objectives with limited resources.
Rising operational costs due to inflation.
Increased service expectations and technology needs from residents.
Escalating fixed costs like salaries, pensions, and healthcare.Reductions in external support from state and federal governments.
(1:01:24) The presenter noted that the city has not been fully funding its road program and faces significant facility needs for the police department and public works. It was also mentioned that the city has only added six general fund employees since 2008, despite a substantial increase in demands.
General Updates and Meeting Close
(1:27:42) The meeting concluded with various updates, including:
An announcement about a free program for seniors at the Batavia Library called “No More Sticky Notes.”
Updates on the city’s green program, the Peace Bridge ramp construction, a new mid-block crossing on Deer Path, and the lead service replacement program.
A brief mention of a new mural being painted on the side of the comedy vault.
(1:31:49) The meeting ended with a motion to enter an executive session to discuss real estate and electricity purchases
LINK: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ie7cgmQM18E
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