The Fairfield City Council met Tuesday night at Fairfield City Hall. The council approved the minutes from the November 13th meeting and the bills submitted since that date.
The first item of routine business involved a discussion about a proposed subdivision development on approximately 6 acres of city-owned property off Leininger Road near the dance studio and the brand new laundromat currently under construction. The developer, Mitchell Budds intends to build ten homes: eight three-bedroom, two-bath homes and two two-bedroom, one-bath homes. The developer’s plan is to purchase one lot initially, build and sell a spec home, and then purchase the remaining lots. The developer proposed installing fencing on the south and east sides of the subdivision. Mayor Gary Moore noted that the subdivision falls within the TIF district, which could potentially provide assistance with site preparation. The council agreed to have City Attorney, Darrin Rice prepare the necessary paperwork to seek bids for selling the first lot, with the understanding that the developer would be willing to attend a future meeting to answer questions.
The second item addressed the city’s financial situation. Mayor Moore presented concerning financial reports showing the city was operating at a loss of $1,365,053 year-to-date, with $1,010,514 spent on environmental issues at the old Fairfield Power Plant. The general fund balance had decreased from $2,176,082 in May to $1,259,595.85 in November, representing a loss of $916,665.15. To address this financial crisis, the Mayor proposed implementing a three-quarter percent sales tax while reducing the current business tax district tax from 1% to one-quarter percent. This restructuring would generate approximately $822,831 annually for the general fund through January 1, 2031, without raising utility rates or property taxes. The council expressed support for this proposal.
The third routine business item was declaring the property at 208 West Delaware as a dangerous building due to a collapsed ceiling. Despite the owner’s stated intentions to repair the building, the council voted to officially declare it dangerous, noting that the designation could be removed if repairs are completed.
The meeting continued with financial reports showing November expenses of $1,972,712 against revenues of $1,492,391, resulting in a negative net income of $480,321. Year-to-date figures showed expenses of $13,872,000 against revenues of $11,715,819, with a net loss of $1,365,053. The Mayor highlighted concerns about the water filtration distribution department, which was $260,000 in deficit despite being a department that should break even or generate profit. He noted design flaws in the water plant and expensive maintenance issues, including half-million-dollar membrane replacements.
The meeting concluded with Mayor Moore acknowledging the successful Christmas parade and thanks to those who helped organize it.