POST FALLS — The City Council on Tuesday approved a resolution to use its forgone tax authority.

Council members voted “aye” to pass the motion except Councilmember Samantha Steigleder.

At the Aug. 20 City Council meeting, city officials agreed to use an additional 3% of its foregone budget authority to fund planned improvements for city facilities consistent with a master plan adopted in 2021. Utilizing the forgone authority does not have an ongoing impact on future tax bills, saving the city money in the long run. 

Currently, the city has $3.5 million in its foregone tax account.  

On a vote to adopt the fiscal year 2025 budget ordinance, all voted “aye” except for Steigleder, who voted no.    

The annual appropriation ordinance for $159,616, 812 as part of the expenses and liabilities for the city in 2025 fiscal year was approved along with authorizing a levy of sufficient tax with a single vote "no" from Steigleder. 

The new fiscal year begins Oct. 1.

The city’s fee hearing resulted in unanimous approval to be made into a resolution and presented at a future City Council meeting for fiscal year 2025. 

Councilmember Randy Westlund said he was encouraged by the overall change in fees compared to the overall economic picture.   

“Any time a fee increase is less than inflation, it reflects pretty well on what we’re doing,” Westlund said.   

Overall, water fees are going up 5% based on the water master plan, wastewater fees are experiencing a 2.5% increase and solid waste is experiencing a 6% increase for residential rate.  

Impact fees are experiencing a 2.29% increase. 

The fee hearing stressed that fire/EMS fees for Post Falls are not part of the city’s fees, but the city facilitates collection for the coverage area.

    Councilmembers Nathan Ziegler, Randy Westlund and Kenny Shove look over materials during a Post Falls City Council meeting Tuesday.

    Post Falls Mayor Ron Jacobson and Councilmember Nathan Ziegler talk before a City Council meeting Tuesday in council chambers of city hall.