Scofield holds hearing on $40,000 transfer from utility fund to general fund

Scofield Town held a public hearing June 9, 2025, on a proposed transfer of $40,000 from the town's utility (enterprise) fund into the general fund for fiscal year 2026. Town staff said the move would pay general-fund expenses and planned projects that the utility fund does not cover and would help keep property taxes lower.

Speaker 2, who presented the staff overview, said the transfer covers accounts payable, payroll, human resources, telephone and internet, the fire department, legal services, insurance, building maintenance, propane, the school and park collection costs. "It helps keep our taxes down," Speaker 2 said, describing the transfer as a common mechanism for small towns that rely on enterprise revenues to support general operations.

Council members and residents asked how the transfer would be funded. Speaker 1 and Speaker 3 confirmed the money would come from the utility fund (water and sewer). Speaker 3 explained the town generates utility revenue through a sewer contract hauling wastewater from a nearby mine into the town system. Speakers referenced current mine employment, noting a resident estimate of about 430 miners and staff's remark that the number had risen to roughly 450, which has boosted the utility fund in recent months.

Several speakers stressed the town's vulnerability if mine operations slow or stop. "Your only option is to make up the shortfall with water and sewer rates," Speaker 1 warned, saying higher rates could make living in town unaffordable for some residents. Council members discussed limited discretionary spending and said they would examine where cuts might be possible before relying on a fund transfer.

Staff listed some specific budget items and projects discussed during the hearing: street lights costing about $410 per month, routine truck and equipment maintenance, and a planned Americans with Disabilities Act ramp in front of the town building that would be materially costly because of concrete work. Council compensation during the discussion was cited as $400 per quarter.

The hearing was closed by motion. Speaker 3 moved to close the hearing on the proposed transfer; Speaker 1 seconded. The council recorded a voice vote of "Aye," and the chair adjourned the hearing at 6:30 p.m. The transcript does not record a formal final decision on the $40,000 transfer during the hearing.

What happens next: the hearing was closed for deliberation; the transcript does not record a formal adoption, amendment, or final vote on the transfer during this session.