Larksburg approves midyear budget adjustments, tapping reserves for library completion

The Larksburg City Council approved Resolution 08/26 on Feb. 4, adopting midyear amendments to the fiscal year 2025–26 budget after a staff presentation on revenue and expenditure trends through December 2025.

Administrative Services Director Amelia Gabrielle told the council that major revenue lines remain generally on target: property tax is projected at $16.6 million (roughly 64% of general fund revenue) and sales tax at $3.1 million. Staff proposed $787,000 in revenue-side adjustments (including $200,000 added to building permit receipts and $400,000 added to plan-check fees) and $714,000 in increased general-fund expenditures (including $600,000 for increased building‑inspection activity and $113,000 for three–four months of operations at the new library). The package also included transfers and reserve adjustments, notably a $1,778,000 use of general‑fund reserve previously earmarked for the Library at the Commons construction.

Council members asked detailed questions about debt service, the library operating cost trajectory once the facility opens, and whether inspection workload is contract versus in‑house. Staff said the inspection budget increase reflects higher permit activity and that the city recently hired a building official who may enable more in‑house work over time. Staff also described one‑time investment income above budget ($200,000) that raised reserves and explained special‑fund adjustments tied to capital projects and ARPA closeout activity.

After discussion the council moved, seconded and approved Resolution 08/26 by voice vote. Staff said the midyear review demonstrates the city is generally on budget while using planned reserves to complete the library construction and to cover seasonally variable revenues.