Lancaster · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Lancaster public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Early payoff of 2012 water bonds
The water division wants to call its remaining 2012 water bonds early, freeing up cash ahead of bigger state loan payments — expected to save ratepayers at least $108,000 in interest.
County tax rate acceptance
The annual Schedule A real-estate tax collection rates — which the city cannot change — were accepted on an emergency basis to meet an October county deadline.
New full-time tax auditor position
The city income tax department is getting another auditor, funded through a resolution and a companion pay ordinance both passed the same night.
NOPEC municipal electricity agreement
The city's NOPEC contract expired about three years ago and the city has been paying below-market rates they can no longer sustain; a new ordinance kicks off a re-bid for municipal buildings that will mean higher rates.
Public Works department reorganization pay changes
With LDOT and Engineering merged into one Public Works Department, council finalized pay adjustments for roles absorbing the duties of the eliminated superintendent position.
Proposed Department of Public Works Consolidation
Mayor McDaniel wants to merge LDOT, Engineering, Electrical, and Cemeteries into one department, using retirements as a chance to restructure without layoffs.
City Hall renovation financing
Council took the first reading on a note of up to $6.4 million for City Hall renovation; the auditor said the city will pay down principal and borrow closer to $5.8 million.
Rising fuel costs squeezing city budgets
Unleaded jumped from $2.45 to $4.15 a gallon and diesel from $3.39 to $6.05 since late February. Departments may come back to council this fall asking for more money.
National Opioid Settlement Participation
The city joined settlements with six remaining opioid distributors, positioning Lancaster to recover funds from the national litigation. Money recovered typically supports addiction treatment and prevention efforts locally.
Sanitation truck replacement after February crash
A 4 mph collision with a utility pole totaled the sanitation fleet's newest truck; repairs would take 10 months while the city rents at $8,900 a month. Buying new ends the rental bleed.