In a recent government meeting, officials presented the biannual budget totaling $57,225,723, which encompasses fund balances, revenues, and expenses. The budget breakdown reveals that utilities, including both operating and capital expenses, account for 35% of the total, followed closely by the general fund at 29%. Special revenue funds, which include various operational funds such as visitor promotion and emergency medical services, make up the remaining portion.

The projected total fund balance entering 2025 is approximately $16.4 million, with total revenues for the two-year period estimated at $40.8 million against expenditures of $44.9 million. This planned deficit is intentional, as it allows for the continuation of significant capital projects, such as the City Hall renovation, which will carry over into future budgets.

For the general fund, revenues are expected to exceed $16 million over the two years, with notable increases in building permits projected at $110,000 for 2025 and $120,000 for 2026. The budget anticipates a 9.5% revenue increase from 2024 to 2025, followed by a 2.5% increase from 2025 to 2026. Sales tax revenues are expected to remain stable, with conservative estimates due to previous underperformance.

The general fund will support essential services, including public safety, parks maintenance, and administrative functions. Notably, the railroad right-of-way fund will be closed, consolidating its maintenance costs into the general fund due to unsustainable revenue from rental properties.

Expenditures for the general fund are projected at $7.8 million for 2025, reflecting a 6% increase from the previous budget, and $8.2 million for 2026, a 4.7% increase. This budget includes adjustments for personnel costs and contract increases, particularly in public safety, which constitutes 42% of the general fund budget.

Overall, the meeting underscored the city's commitment to maintaining essential services while strategically managing its budget to accommodate ongoing and future projects.