Pope County treasurer reports 2025 revenues above projection; county aims to use figures in upcoming ballot discussion
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Summary
County Treasurer Larry Homan told the quorum court that December 2025 and year‑end revenues exceeded projections, with the general fund at about 110% of expected receipts and specific funds also above budget; he flagged falling interest income as ARP funds were spent down.
County Treasurer Larry Homan told the Pope County Quorum Court on Jan. 8 that the county closed 2025 with receipts above initial projections, with the general fund at roughly 110.28% of projected revenue.
Homan read line items from the year‑end report, citing gross sales and use tax for December at about $536,005.81 and noting rebate and audit adjustments. He said ambulance fees grew in 2025 compared with 2024 and that year‑to‑date checking account deposits rose to roughly $145 million for 2025 versus about $138 million in 2024. "But it's better than being in the red," Homan said of the year‑over‑year results.
Homan also highlighted individual fund performance: the road fund was reported at about 105.95% of projection, the library fund at about 108.44%, 9‑1‑1 at roughly 100.41% and EMS at about 116.56%. He cautioned, however, that interest income fell after federal discount rates declined and as one‑time American Rescue Plan (ARP) balances were spent. Homan reminded the court that some figures in budget hearing documents were estimates that were later replaced by actual numbers when the books closed.
Why it matters: The treasurer's report provides updated revenue expectations ahead of any discussion about returning a 1¢ countywide sales tax to the ballot; Homan pointed to the 2025 receipts as a rough guide to what that tax could raise in 2026.
What comes next: Homan said the clerk's office provided comparative department reports and encouraged justices to review the county budget summary packet if they consider placing a sales tax question before voters.
