Here are the highlights from last week’s meeting. See the Agenda Packet for additional information and documentation.
Community Activities Commissioner Appointment
On the consent agenda, Council approved the appointment of applicant Amy George to the Community Activities Commission. She’ll be sworn in at the November 10 CAC meeting. Congratulations, Amy, and we’re excited you’ll be working with us to help create meaningful and memorable experiences for Newcastle residents!
Councilmember Comments of Gratitude
Councilmembers thanked everyone who cast a ballot in the most recent election. They also expressed gratitude for the volunteers who helped make Boocastle a fun event for the community, to all the candidates who chose to run for Council seats in the most recent election, to new Commissioner Amy George for all her volunteer service to the City in recent years, and to the Veterans we honor this Veterans Day.
Clean Audit for the City of Newcastle
The Finance Committee reported on the achievement of the City of Newcastle Finance Department, who was recently awarded a clean audit for FY 2020. A clean audit means there were not factual or material misstatements within the City’s financial reporting. The Washington State Auditor’s Office has thanked the City of Newcastle for their commitment to accurate reporting and fiscal responsibility.
Additionally, the Finance Committee announced they will hold their next meeting on November 18. Details will be posted on the City’s website.
In addition to the City Manager’s written report (which always has some interesting tidbits that we encourage you to read), City Manager Rob Wyman noted that the City has been awarded an $80,000 grant from King County for stormwater infrastructure for the S40 Landcastle Project. Additionally, the Tria building sold on October 28, which will bring approximately $134,000 of Real Estate Excise Tax income to the City.
A Public Hearing was held regarding the proposed 2022 property tax levy and overall funding sources. Council passed a 2021 budget amendment, which primarily authorized eligible ARPA expenses to be spent out of the Cumulative Reserve Fund rather than the General Fund. This will make the City’s ARPA expenditures more transparent and easier to track. Finally, while the vote to set the 2022 property tax levy didn’t pass (3-3 tie), the Council did vote unanimously to reconsider (meaning they’ll take a new vote) at the next regular meeting. Tune in on Tuesday, November 16 for further information.
Do you want your City Councilmembers to know your preferences and opinions on City issues? You can always email them directly at [email protected], or you can submit public comment, either live at a Council Meeting or by writing to the City Clerk at [email protected].