Controller/Treasurer outlines insurance and workers'comp adjustments in 2027 proposal

Darlene, the controller/treasurer, presented her department's proposed 2027 budget and explained several drivers behind increases. She said the move of a staff member (Michelle) to full-time increased retirement and health-insurance costs. Darlene also said the city had previously been under-reporting payroll for workers' compensation, which led to an audit and penalty; she said staff are correcting the estimates to avoid repeat penalties.

Contracted services were reduced in the 2027 proposal because the controller's office expects more in-house capacity, and the city is proceeding with an assessor contract for a market-valuation update tied to the upcoming revaluation. Committee members discussed insurance-premium increases and the need to reconcile combined line items for clarity. The committee voted to recommend the controller/treasurer budget to the council.