The Solon City Council met Wednesday, April 1, holding a special session for a public hearing on the Fiscal Year (FY) 2027 property tax levy before its regular meeting at the new City Hall, 100 S. Cedar St., the first council meeting held in the building.
The City intends to raise the levy to $11.53383 for the new fiscal year starting on July 1, up from the current levy of $ 11.01255.
The regular meeting followed covering routine business, infrastructure updates and economic development. Consent agenda items, including minutes, bills and reports, were approved without discussion. Department updates highlighted ongoing city projects. Public Works Superintendent Kris Richardson reported progress on the First Street water main project, noting remaining work depends on weather conditions.
“We’re waiting for two good days without rain… but other than that, that project’s wrapping up,” Richardson said.
Fire officials warned residents about increased fire risk heading into warmer months.
“We’ve been busy… mostly because it’s so dry,” said Council Member Greg Morris, a Solon volunteer firefighter, referencing a recent multi-department response in Cedar Rapids involving about 50 personnel including units from Solon.
Library Board President Sandra Lawrence shared updates on community engagement, reporting more than 63,000 checkouts and over 10,000 program attendees in the past year.
“It’s been a busy place… if you haven’t been there, please stop by,” Lawrence said.
The council also proclaimed April as Sexual Assault Awareness Month, emphasizing awareness, survivor support and prevention efforts led by organizations such as DVIP (Domestic Violence Intervention Program) and RVAP (Rape Victim Advocacy Program).
A public hearing was held on an amendment to the city’s urban renewal area, which allows the use of tax increment financing (TIF) for development projects. City Administrator Cami Rasmussen said the amendment helps maintain flexibility for future funding, including a potential recreation center.
Rasmussen also clarified that a forgivable loan approved for The Eat Shop is tied to a previously completed expansion, not a future expansion into the former bike shop space. The expansion occurred while Briar Ridge Bikes was still located next door, and the business has since relocated to Dubuque Street.
Under old business, the council approved final readings of ordinances vacating a 16-foot alley and updating the city’s code of ordinances.
Council members also approved forgivable loan agreements to support local business development, with conditions requiring repayment if terms are not met.
The council set an April 22 public hearing for the FY27 budget, continuing the city’s budget timeline.