Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Lemoore public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
5 issues in taxes budget with medium priority
New city website launch
Council members agree the city website is hard to use — even finding meeting agendas and trash days is a chore. A new website was approved a few meetings ago and is in process.
Master User Fee Schedule and Cost Allocation Updates
The city updated its 200-plus fees for the first time since 2020: building permits rise to cover rising costs, a general plan fee triples to save up for a roughly $1 million update, and hall rentals and indoor soccer fees go up. Recreation fees still run below actual cost because the general fund subsidizes them.
Audit Prep Consulting Contract (Price Page and Company)
The city's books got a clean bill of health: no findings, unqualified opinion, and the general fund grew $2.4 million to $17.6 million. Councilmember Gornick wants the city to review its reserve policy to make the most of the upward trend.
Unfunded Pension (PERS) Liability
The city now has a tool to offer early retirement to employees in positions where retiring saves money — hiring replacements at lower pay or not backfilling at all. It's off the table for police officers right now given the department is down three officers and paying overtime.
City council stipend increase
The council is raising its own pay from current levels to $750/month, plus $100 for the mayor and $100 for board service. It brings Lemoore closer to the state maximum of $950 and what neighboring cities pay.