Fishers reports 2026 finances roughly on track as food-and-beverage receipts rise

Finance presenter Lisa gave the council a monthly 2026 financial package showing general fund revenue and departmental spending compared to the approved 2026 budget.

Lisa said the city received a special local income tax distribution in May that raised LIT receipts and explained that property taxes do not come in ratably, which drives some early-year variance. She noted personnel remains the largest expenditure and said payroll timing — including a three-paycheck month tied to the 2026 pay calendar — and quarterly health insurance charges are causing higher personnel variances early in the year.

On revenue sources, Lisa highlighted food-and-beverage tax collections as a standout: “April of this year, 416,000 dollars in one month on our food and beverage,” she said, and staff noted the city budgeted $4 million of food-and-beverage receipts this year to pay Event Center debt service. Staff said recent months and month-over-month growth suggest the city may meet or exceed that budgeted figure.

Lisa also reported that stormwater charges were moved onto the sewer bill this year and that the change has produced more pro rata stormwater revenue. She described the city’s compliance approach for food-and-beverage tax remittance — staff send reminder letters to permit-holders and the state audits and enforces collections — and agreed to distribute the full monthly financial packet to finance committee members for further review.

The council thanked staff for the snapshot and moved on to a separate agenda item on TIF-area personal property tax.