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Commission sets maximum mill levy above revenue-neutral rate, continues 2027 budget work
Summary
Staff presented the 2027 budget framework (proposed total just over $17 million) and the commission approved Resolution 2026-13 to set a maximum mill levy above the revenue-neutral rate; commissioners debated cuts, transfers from utility funds and a $20,000 library funding request while asking SCCD to present before any change in interlocal funding.
City staff presented the proposed 2027 budget and asked the Goodland City Commission to act on a hearing notice and a resolution to set the maximum mill levy. Staff reported an assessed valuation of about $43,910,000 and a proposed budget just over $17 million; net expenditures and ad valorem details were shown to explain why the proposed levy would exceed the revenue-neutral rate by a small margin.
Staff highlighted several drivers: a small increase in assessed valuation (less than 1%), a projected increase in employee benefits (including KPERS) and a library budget request of roughly $20,000 more than last year. Staff also noted neighborhood revitalization (NRP) rebates reduce taxable value ($67,000 shown for the year) and presented possible avenues to reduce the levy gap: additional departmental cuts, increased transfers from utility funds or further adjustments to the budget. Staff estimated the remaining gap to reach revenue neutrality at approximately $30,000–$36,000.
Commissioners debated priorities and noted an upcoming SCCD (economic development) presentation; one commissioner proposed matching the county contribution to SCCD rather than raising the mill levy, but other commissioners cautioned about altering interlocal commitments before hearing SCCD. Given statutory deadlines for publishing a hearing notice, staff recommended and the commission moved and approved Resolution 2026-13 to exceed the revenue-neutral rate (the resolution sets a maximum that can be lowered at the final hearing). The hearing was scheduled for Aug. 17.
Next steps: staff will publish the required hearing notice, continue to refine cuts and revenues, gather SCCD information and return with a final budget and rates in August.
