LTAC opens surplus applications; convention center capital planning, equipment replacements discussed

The finance committee reported that the Local Tourism Advisory Committee (LTAC) voted to open surplus funds and set an application window from March 1 to March 31.

Committee members estimated the beginning surplus balance at about $572 (amount type not specified in the transcript) and said likely uses include marketing and convention-center operational needs. The chair noted that the city would be deliberate in bringing only operational capital requests forward, and any major capital requests for the convention center would be prioritized after the ongoing project schedule and roof study.

Staff said many awarded 2025 capital projects for the convention center are nearly complete (about 90–95% done), and a roof study is underway with a 4–6 month timeline; depending on the study results, the city may plan a roof replacement in 2027 or 2028 and seek capital funding near the end of 2026. Committee members also discussed HVAC and the timing of equipment replacement.

Public Works Director Ricky will request council approval to use $33,000 of $60,000 saved from a $60,000-under-budget dump truck purchase to buy a heavy-capacity mower; staff said this would not require a budget amendment as it is within available savings. Members emphasized creating and sharing an equipment-replacement inventory between public works and finance to reduce surprises and budget shocks.

Next steps: LTAC will accept applications in March; staff will complete the roof study and bring results to finance and council; Ricky and Becky will coordinate equipment inventories and long-term replacement planning with finance committee involvement.