Council debates timing for borough/annexation feasibility study amid tight budget outlook

Council and staff discussed the prospect of pursuing a borough or annexation feasibility study. Staff described the study as potentially costing roughly $80,000 and noted work required (consultant, appraisal, legal review). Several council members said they were reluctant to spend funds in the current budget cycle and favored waiting until revenue projections for the later quarters are clearer.

Members asked for a clearer scope from the consultant — sample table of contents or deliverables — and whether any parts of a study would remain useful if implementation were deferred for years. Staff said they would request more precise proposals and noted that the study is the first step in a long process that can take years and does not guarantee an outcome.

No binding decision was made; council discussed scheduling a work session and whether to make the study an agenda item for a future meeting once the consultant provides a costed scope.