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 City Administrator Compensation
The committee planned a closed session to discuss City Administrator compensation for 2027, using WCMA salary survey results as a benchmark. Outcomes were not disclosed because the discussion was held in executive session.
Water Utility PILOT payment increase
The city has been collecting about $12,000 less from the water utility in lieu of taxes than the state allows. The resolution sets the payment at the full PSC-permitted amount going forward, giving the city more revenue without a new tax on residents directly.
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.
2026 BID Operating Plan Levy
The BID levy stays at $1.50 per thousand of property value with a $50 minimum and $3,000 maximum per parcel, raising $62,982 for downtown programs. Property values held steady this year, but a full city revaluation in 2027 could push the assessment total higher next year.
Cancellation of November 2 council meeting due to election
In-person voting for the November election starts October 20 at City Hall, and the county is considering new voting machines — officials were invited to view them Wednesday evening.
RDA fund financial status
The RDA got its final $60,000 payment from the city, meaning no new revenue is coming in until new sources are found. After paying the EMC residential and Eugene Hotel agreements, the fund is projected to end the year at $220,832.
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.
Artificial intelligence use in city government
The committee was scheduled to consider an AI policy governing how city staff may use artificial intelligence tools, with a possible recommendation to the Common Council. If adopted, it would set rules for a technology many local governments are just starting to regulate.
Election Equipment and Voter Information
In-person absentee voting starts Oct. 20 at City Hall, and the county is shopping for new voting machines — alderpersons were invited to a Wednesday demonstration, followed by a UW-Extension public education session on the data center moratorium.