Editor’s Note: We apologize for the delay in this article. I was out of town, as I am working another job, and was unable to access the full meeting and receive the full notes from this meeting due to livestream issues on the page’s YouTube channel.

The City of Loogootee’s Board of Works and Common Council held a meeting at the Loogootee Municipal Building on Monday, Sept. 8. Attendees included Mayor Brian Ader, along with council members Brandon Carrico, Danny Clark, Dana Strange, and Mark McAtee.

Fire Chief Eric Thomas delivered an engaging and comprehensive presentation to the fire department team, providing detailed updates and valuable insights into the current state of the department’s operational activities.

During the presentation, Chief Thomas highlighted recent developments, ongoing initiatives, and future plans aimed at enhancing the department’s effectiveness and community safety. He discussed various operational challenges faced by the team, such as resource allocation, response times, and training programs, and shared strategies being implemented to address these issues.

The presentation also included statistical data, recent incident reports, and success stories that exemplify the department’s commitment to excellence and community service.

Chief Thomas emphasized the importance of teamwork, continuous training, and community engagement in achieving the department’s goals. He recognized the hard work and dedication of the fire department personnel, acknowledging their efforts in maintaining high standards of safety and emergency response. Additionally, he encouraged open communication and collaboration among team members to ensure that everyone is aligned and working towards common objectives.

The session featured interactive segments where department members could ask questions and provide feedback on various operational aspects. Overall, Chief Thomas’s presentation was well-received, energizing the team and reaffirming their shared mission to protect lives and property. His insights not only informed the department about current activities but also motivated everyone to strive for ongoing improvements in service delivery and community outreach.

A critical part of this meeting was the public hearing, which took place on the same day and was an essential element of the city’s budgeting process. This hearing gives residents the opportunity to review the city’s financial plans and offer feedback. The focus was on the 2026 budget, particularly examining staff pay—from how much staff should be paid to how the budget allocates funds for staffing needs next year. The budget serves as a foundational document guiding city funding for essential services such as public safety, infrastructure projects, and community programs aimed at improving residents’ quality of life.

Following the hearing, residents and taxpayers have the right to object to the budget, tax rate, or tax levy by filing a petition. According to local law, at least 10 taxpayers must submit this petition with the city’s officers within seven days of the hearing. The petition must specify the particular provisions of the budget or tax measures that are objected to.

The estimated civil maximum levy for the upcoming year is approximately $786,129, with an expected property tax cap credit of about $67,200. For those interested in reviewing detailed budget estimates by fund or department, they can visit the city offices at 401 John F. Kennedy Ave.

Following the hearing and the petition process, if a valid petition is filed, the city officials will review the objections and hold a meeting to adopt the final budget, along with findings regarding any objections raised. This process ensures transparency and accountability as the city finalizes its financial plans for 2026.

In summary, the recent meeting underscored the importance of public participation in local government budgeting. It provided an opportunity for residents to understand how their tax dollars are allocated and to voice any concerns or objections. The city remains committed to transparency, encouraging civic engagement and providing avenues for residents to influence decision-making on significant fiscal matters.

For further details on the budget or to participate in upcoming hearings, residents are encouraged to contact the city offices or visit the municipal building during business hours.

The next meeting will take place on Monday, October 6 at the Loogootee Municipal Building