Finance update: year-to-date spending steady; sales tax trending slightly above 2024

Marathon County finance staff presented year-to-date budget-versus-actual figures through March 31 and an update on sales tax receipts during the June 11 committee meeting.

Finance staff said departmental expenditures generally align with expectations for the first quarter. Sam (finance) noted timing differences: property tax revenue now appears in department budgets rather than centrally, which affects comparisons with prior years. Facilities recorded a one-time receipt tied to meter air transport from WPS; the county clerk recorded roughly $475,000 in tax-deed sales; the district attorney recorded about $15,000 in restitution surcharge receipts.

On sales tax, Administrator Leonard told the committee that, through the latest distribution, receipts are trending about 7.3% above the comparable 2024 amount. Finance staff reminded the committee that sales tax distributions lag underlying economic activity by roughly two months (for example, May distributions largely reflect March activity). The administration said sales tax is volatile, will be monitored, and any worrisome trends will be reported promptly.

Sam also reported contingency appropriations approved in prior resolutions were not yet charged because projects had not started. Committee members praised recent departmental budget review sessions that helped managers better understand their budgets.

The committee did not take formal budget action at the meeting; staff will continue to monitor revenues and expenditures as the county prepares its 2026 budget.