Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Sheridan public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
10 issues in taxes budget with high priority
Fleet and Fire Apparatus Purchases (~$2.38M)
The city now has a full 393-asset inventory and a sinking-fund model to plan vehicle replacements — but council learned the long-term cost could be steep, and affordability remains an open question.
Distribution of ARPA Funds
The city has about $70,700 in interest earned on ARPA funds it could give to Habitat for Humanity, but council held off until after the election out of concern that the property tax and fifth-penny ballot measures could squeeze city finances.
Municipal Code Amendments (Ordinances 2304-26 and 2305-26)
Modernized rules require secondhand dealers to keep digital transaction records so police can track stolen goods. A new council appeal process was added after concerns the rules could sweep in consignment and antique shops.
Joint Land Use Plan Update — $200,000 contract
The commission endorsed hiring Interstate Engineering for $200,000 to update the plan governing growth within one mile of city limits, with heavy public engagement over 12-14 months. The city pays about two-thirds, and leftover budget could fund a city land use plan update with the same consultant.
Potential Two-Mill Senior District Levy
Voters may face two extra mills for The Hub senior center on the August ballot, on top of the city's eight mills and its $80,000 Hub allocation — a possible 'double dip' some residents flagged.
FY26 Budget Amendment #1 (Resolution 01-26)
The city is cleaning up its books for the audit — reducing contingency, rolling over approved purchases and adding new grants. Reserves stay around $5.7 million under the revised plan.
FY27 City Budget Adoption
Council is reviewing the FY27 budget in a new format. Members asked for help navigating the reorganized document and whether the familiar color-coded tabs will return.
One Cent/GPET Ballot Question
The 1-cent optional sales tax funds infrastructure, public safety, parks, and other community needs, and the city gets roughly 66% of it. Council members acknowledged the city has become dependent on this revenue and that voters have come close to rejecting it, so better public education is needed.
2025 City Audit
The city's audit shows six findings tied to staff turnover and the new financial software rollout, including improper revenue recognition and a missed federal grant on the SEFA. Treasurer Darla Hawkins laid out corrective action plans with timelines; no penalties resulted.
FY27 GPET excise tax service agreements
Twenty nonprofits — from the Advocacy & Resource Center to the Senior Citizens Council — are requesting a share of next year's optional one-cent sales tax. The mayor recommends full funding for 12, less for 6, and nothing for 2, totaling about 10% of the $5 million expected. The money only flows if voters reapprove the one-cent tax this fall.