💰 Budget Adopted for FY 2025–2026

  • The council approved the budget ordinance for the year beginning October 1, 2025 – September 30, 2026.

  • Property tax revenue will increase by $10,060 compared to last year (1.51% rise).

  • Revenue from new property additions totals $2,527.

  • Outcome: The budget passed.

🏡 Property Tax Rate Lowered

  • Despite the revenue increase, the council reduced the tax rate:

    • From 9.36¢9.2¢ per $100 value (a 1.7% decrease).

  • Final rates:

    • Total: 0.092

    • Maintenance & Operations: 0.06933

    • Debt Service: 0.02267

  • Council members highlighted their commitment to being “good stewards of public resources,” noting this is the second consecutive year the rate has gone down.

  • Votes carried unanimously.

🌳 Parks & Recreation Update

  • Hills Fest Budget: The council approved funding for Hills City Limits (HCL), set at $30,000.

  • Caps for October Fest:

    • The city will not sell merchandise (to avoid sales tax collection).

    • Instead, caps will be offered for a minimum $15 donation (production cost: $5–6).

👩‍⚖️ Council Vacancy Filled

  • After an executive session, the council appointed Britney Mycoskie to fill the vacant seat until November 2026.

  • Mayor and council members thanked all three applicants-Britney, Madison, and Karthik - for stepping up to serve.

  • Council members praised the strong applicant pool and growing volunteerism in the community.

📅 Upcoming Events

  • Hills City Limits Fest – Sunday, Oct. 5 | 2–6 p.m.

  • National Night Out – Tuesday, Oct. 7 | 5–7 p.m.

🗣️ Community Voice

The Hills Observer exists to keep residents informed and engaged. If you’d like to contribute perspectives, photos, or event updates, reply to this newsletter-we welcome all community voices.

⚖️ Disclaimer

The Hills Observer is a resident-run initiative. It is not affiliated with the Village of The Hills, the City Council, or the POA.

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