Winooski treasurer reports modest general fund gain for FY25 Q3; enterprise funds face pressure from capital projects

Treasurer John Rauscher reported to the Winooski City Council on the fiscal year 2025 third‑quarter financials (through March 31), saying the city expects a modest general‑fund surplus and continued pressure in enterprise funds because of capital projects.

Rauscher said the general fund is forecasting an annual surplus of about $100,000 and a net fund balance of about $2.7 million, roughly a 4% year‑over‑year increase. General fund revenues are forecast at about $11.3 million, approximately $330,000 over budget; property tax collections are estimated at about $8.1 million and were slightly under budget in the quarter due in part to assessor valuation appeals, the treasurer said.

Rising interest rates and investment income were cited as contributors to last fiscal year’s revenue gains. Rauscher said general fund expenses are forecast at roughly $11.2 million, about $200,000 over budget, and that recent staff vacancies had temporarily reduced payroll costs but that vacancies are declining as positions are filled. He said the police department currently has two open positions and a new fire inspector was recently hired.

Rauscher told the council the water and wastewater fund is recording short‑term losses tied to the Main Street revitalization project (expected to remain on schedule) and that the parking fund has short‑term losses related to construction of the Abenaki garage, which is nearing completion. He advised continued monitoring of the Abenaki garage progress and noted the city should prepare for other long‑term capital needs.

Council members asked clarifying questions; Rauscher closed by reiterating monitoring and reporting recommendations to manage fund balances as construction projects progress.