Page 14 - CityofKennedaleFY26AdoptedBudget

As in any organization, capable and experienced city employees are vital to achieving the Council's vision and
goals, as well as meeting the needs and expectations of our citizens. It is widely known that municipal

government and private sector organizations are competing for a shrinking, qualified pool of available
employees in the current job market. Necessary market salary adjustments have become the new standard, as

municipal governments continue to face personnel shortages across the state and the nation. However, I am

pleased to report that city staffing levels have remained stable over the past several years. To continue retaining
our employees, this budget proposes a three percent increase in compensation for all civilian employees for

skills relevant to their current positions. While this is a positive step, salaries in some positions will still fall

below the current market average. Future compensation strategies will need to address the market pay gap as
soon as it is feasible.

The adopted budget also includes the addition of a new employee. This new position will be essential to meet

the needs of our growing community. It will increase customer service and enhance productivity for

public works. A project manager will oversee and coordinate infrastructure projects and services within the
city.

In our FY 2025-2026 budget, we outlined professional expectation goals for city staff members. I am proud

to announce that we achieved goals that were within our control. Previous goals that went unmet were

due to financial constraints or the inability to meet the fiscal year timeframe. Goals not met last year
will be incorporated into the objectives for the new budget year.

Community Development

One of our FY 2024-2025 budget goals included implementing a new online permitting and licensing

system. This new program has enhanced our ability to improve work quality and streamline processes. It
has also increased proficiency and professionalism in our work. With the latest software, we have

updated the fee schedule, nuisance ordinances related to lighting concerns, and obtained new signs
through a TRA-awarded grant to help reduce illegal dumping. As we move into FY 2026, additional

Community Development goals include establishing a rental registration and inspection program and adopting
the 2021 ICC I-codes. We intend to increase training, certifications, and licenses within our department to

improve the city's ISO rating. Plans also include achieving accreditation as a code enforcement department

through the American Association of Code Enforcement. Additionally, we want to become more involved
with Keep Kennedale Beautiful to help establish beautification programs throughout the city.

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