During a recent government meeting, officials discussed the proposed budget for the upcoming fiscal year, highlighting significant increases in wages, benefits, and legal services. Wages and benefits alone account for 57% of the overall budget, with a proposed increase of $287,000 primarily driven by contracted salary and benefit increases, which are largely beyond the control of the administration.

Legal services have seen a notable rise, with an increase of $67,000 attributed to ongoing legal costs that are expected to persist. Additionally, IT services are being restructured, moving towards a cloud-based model thanks to American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds, which will allow for more efficient remote IT management.

The budget also reflects a 16% increase in dispatching costs, which are dictated by external providers, and a 12% rise in property insurance and general assistance expenditures. The general government budget has increased by 24%, largely due to the reallocation of code enforcement expenses and the addition of a general assistance coordinator.

In terms of capital expenditures, the administration plans to utilize ARPA funds for one-time purchases, including vehicles for the police and public works departments, rather than increasing capital debt. This approach aims to address immediate needs without creating ongoing financial obligations. The budget also anticipates future capital purchases, such as a new sweeper for public works, which will be considered in the next fiscal year.

Overall, the proposed budget reflects a strategic shift towards managing costs while addressing essential services and infrastructure needs, with a focus on utilizing available one-time funds effectively. The meeting concluded with a review of revenue projections, indicating an increase in tax revenue by $151,000.