Monroe · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Monroe public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
2027 Budget
City employees would see a 2.8% cost-of-living raise on the pay scale in 2027, on top of their roughly 2.5% annual step increase. The figure falls within the 2.5%–3% range the committee directed in September.
2027 Cost-of-Living Adjustment to Pay Scale
The committee was scheduled to weigh a COLA increase to the 2027 compensation pay scale, with 2.5% and 3.5% scenarios among the options. The decision shapes city employee pay and the city's future budget.
2027 City Budget and Fee Schedule
A presenter explained that state levy limits cap Monroe's tax increases at net new construction (1.443% in 2025), forcing the city to bond for capital projects as costs outpace allowed revenue. The council also adopted an intent-to-reimburse resolution to preserve flexibility for future bonding up to $60 million.
2027 Fee Schedule
The airport's draft 2027 budget now goes to the Finance & Taxation Committee before any final city approval. With fuel sales down about 22% from last year, revenue trends could shape the fees and spending that end up in the final budget.
2027 Employee Health Insurance Renewals
Renewal of the city's employee health benefits package was up for discussion, with a USI presentation and a draft resolution in the packet. Premium changes here affect the city's budget and what employees pay out of pocket.
Police union contract extension with wage increase
The council extended the police union contract one year with a raise, decided after a closed-session negotiation. This affects city budget planning and police retention.
Three-year staggered terms for mayor and alderpersons
Right now up to half the council can turn over in one year. This change staggers three-year terms so roughly a third of the council is up each year, starting with the 2027 election. It's a stability play — but it also means longer waits between chances to vote officials out.