Wales council approves 2026–27 budget, adds $2,500 for Strongman event

The Wales Town Council voted unanimously to approve the town’s 2026–27 fiscal budget at its June 25 meeting and formally approved the 2025–26 budget as presented.

Councilor Dave moved to adopt the 2026–27 budget; the motion was seconded and carried by voice vote of members present. Council members discussed a handful of line items and one targeted addition before the final vote.

Alan proposed a $2,500 one-time payment for Cecil Clausen, who organizes the town’s Strongman competition. “I suggest that we probably put $2,500 in the budget,” Alan said, adding that Clausen has donated time and money to the event and has turned down offers from other towns. Members said the amount could be split between the water and general funds to keep overall budget impacts modest.

The council also reviewed several capital outlay items. Staff noted a possible equipment purchase listed at roughly $94,000 on the capital plan while flagging the option of buying a used unit to reduce costs. Members said the town has carryover grant funds (one line shows $300,000 in draft grant income and an approximate $43,000 carryover) and that a capital purchase would be weighed against those balances.

Parks and cemetery needs were discussed during budget review. Councilors noted a $10,000 anonymous donation earmarked for cemetery enlargement and discussed staging any work over 2–3 years so plots can be sold in phases.

The motion to adopt the budget passed unanimously among members present. Councilors said they expect to implement the approved spending plan and make adjustments through standard budget amendment procedures if needed.

Next steps: staff will incorporate the approved changes into the town’s official budget document and return to the council for any required administrative adjustments or future amendments.