Brookings holds first reading of 2025 budget ordinance showing $2.8 million increase; adoption set for Nov. 12

Brookings Finance Director Ashley Rencher presented the first reading of Ordinance 24‑037, the city’s 2025 appropriation ordinance, telling the council the proposed budget reflects an approximately $2.8 million increase over 2024 driven largely by capital improvement projects and storm drainage needs.

Rencher said the city projects general fund revenues of about $21.9 million, with sales tax accounting for nearly 47% of general fund revenue and property tax at just over 19%. The budget anticipates a 7.3% sales tax growth rate over the 2024 adopted budget using 2023 actual revenues as a baseline and modest CPI‑based growth assumptions for 2024 and 2025.

Key 2025 capital highlights noted by staff include $3.6 million for street maintenance, a $900,000 inclusive play project at Fishback Park, a $361,000 public works/community development office renovation, a $315,000 skate park renovation and a projected $14 million in capital improvement expenditures over the year. The presentation also noted $320,000 in economic development reserves identified for downtown façade and grant programs.

Rencher said the budget team will return for a second reading and adoption at the council’s Nov. 12 meeting, at which time the 10‑year capital improvement plan and the consolidated fee schedule are also scheduled for final action. Councilmembers asked clarifying questions during the presentation; staff said the budget process included department submissions, workshops in September and review by the budget team.

This first reading does not enact the budget. Formal adoption and any related program approvals are expected at the next council meeting with final vote and associated CIP adoption.