AURORA | A new multi-million dollar fire and police training facility and other capital projects around the city are one step closer to being built after receiving initial approval from city council Monday night.
Before casting the final votes, council members Barb Cleland and Bob Broom remarked how well the city managed to finalize and compromise on the budget, comments directed to address the current federal budget impasse.
“I just want to note how we didn’t wait until the 11th hour to do this,” Cleland said.
“I also want to add how we’re not borrowing or printing the money,” Broom said.
Earlier in the evening the council approved a water tap fee revision that would reduce connection fees for most residential builders, but could exponentially raise prices for heavier commercial users. The measure passed 8-2, with council members Peterson and Molly Markert voting against the revision.
The tap fee was initially delayed to accommodate Broom, who asked if the revision would negatively impact a large water bottler who recently moved to Aurora. That concern was assuaged after Niagra Drinking Water company agreed to purchase an additional commercial tap before the new fee structure took effect.
Councilwoman Barb Cleland asked aloud if a large water user in Aurora was a good thing.
“I don’t know if I want to do a lower tap fee for a (large water user) because they’re going to use a lot of water,” Cleland said.
Are you kidding me a 1.5 % raise is called a bonus! Giving temporary contingent employees full time status, that have worked for the city 35 plus years for 40 hours a week, and giving them paid days off, insurance and being able to participate in the retirement program is considered a bonus!
Shame on you, City Council! Way to go to treat the people that provide all of the services the city has!
Make no mistake about it. You all were dealt another slap across the face.