Council set to take public comment on final fiscal-year budget amendment

Mayor John Haila said the council will hold a public hearing on Item 43, a final amendment to the current fiscal year budget. He reminded listeners that the fiscal year runs July 1 to June 30 and that budget amendments reallocate within existing totals — "budget cannot increase in amount" — to reflect delayed projects, staffing changes or other unanticipated items.

Haila emphasized that the public hearing provides an opportunity for residents to offer comments before council acts. The podcast noted that the agenda can be amended up to 24 hours prior to the meeting and that the council will take public input under the budget item. Residents who cannot attend may email mayorcouncil@cityofames.org or use contact information on cityofames.org/citycouncil.

The hearing is scheduled for the May 26 meeting, which follows the Ames Area MPO session; any council action would come after the public comment period and any staff recommendations presented that evening.