City Council Minutes 08-25-2025 SpecialMINUTES
MONTICELLO CITY COUNCIL SPECIAL MEETING
Monday, August 25, 2025 — 4:45 p.m.
Monticello Community Center
Present: Lloyd Hilgart, Charlotte Gabler, Kip Christianson, Tracy Hinz, and Lee Martie
Absent: None
Staff: Rachel Leonard, Sarah Rathlisberger, Angela Schumann, Matt Leonard, Bob
Ferguston, Jim Thares, Tom Pawelk, and Stephanie Trottier
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Call to Order
Mayor Lloyd Hilgart called the special meeting to order at 4:45 p.m.
Downtown Parking Discussion
City Engineer/Public Works Director Matt Leonard presented an update regarding the
Block 51 parking lot project, reporting that the plans have reached 60% completion. The
proposed design reflects the number of available parking spaces, with construction
anticipated to commence in 2026.
In addition, Mr. Leonard introduced the design of new parking signage intended to assist
the public to more effectively locate available public parking areas.
2026 Budget Discussion
Finance Director Sarah Rathlisberger presented updated preliminary taxable market
value data, including projected valuations for Xcel Energy. All market value classes
reflected positive growth.
Ms. Rathlisberger initiated discussion regarding potential levy increase scenarios. She
noted that a 1 percent levy increase would generate approximately $140,000 in
additional revenue. She further noted that an increase of 8.64 percent would be
required to maintain the current tax rate.
Following discussion, the Council reached consensus in support of a preliminary tax levy
that will maintain or slightly lower the current tax rate. It was noted that the percentage
increase will be discussed at a future meeting. There was additional discussion on how
to allocate the levy increase across various city funds.
Adjournment
By consensus, the meeting was adjourned at 6:15 p.m.
City Council Special Meeting Minutes — August 25, 2025
Recorder: Jennifer Schreib
City Administrator
City Council Special Meeting Minutes — August 25, 2025