Council rejects amendment to boost 2028 sidewalk funding to $1 million

During the CIP discussion, Alderperson Lemke proposed an amendment to increase the city-funded sidewalk program for 2028 from $300,000 to $1,000,000, adding $700,000 to the general-obligation debt plan over that year.

Alderperson Lemke said the higher allocation is intended to catch up on deferred maintenance: "It'll barely make up for what we've taken out over the last 3 years," he said, noting residents had reported broken bones and safety concerns. City Administrator Tony and other staff clarified the current proposal and asked how the additional money would be funded; Tony indicated the added amount would likely be funded by debt.

Several council members said they support improving sidewalks but urged a clear execution plan. Alderperson Wells said he favored better planning before committing larger sums so the city knows whether to use city crews or contractors. Alderperson Matthews raised the need to plan for trees and stump removal when sidewalk work is planned.

The council held a recorded vote on Lemke's amendment; the motion failed 10 to 3.

Council discussion left the existing 2027 sidewalk allocation unchanged and directed staff to continue planning and bring implementation details in future discussion rather than immediately raising the 2028 allocation.