Kewaunee council adopts 2025 Marina, Water and Wastewater budgets; marina fund flagged as tight

The Kewaunee Common Council adopted the recommended 2025 budgets for the Marina Fund, Water Utility Fund and Wastewater Utility Fund after staff and the finance committee presented the packet and recommended approval.

Staff emphasized that the packet contained no capital outlays for these funds, though some capital may be required later for utility projects to satisfy USDA loan conditions. The Marina Fund was described as operating near breakeven for 2024 but projected to finish about $20,000 down as the city pays certain outstanding expenses. Water and wastewater budgets were presented without capital projects in the packet; staff noted the budgets include a modest cushion or 'hedge' for unexpected utility demands and that some line items (utilities) were increased modestly (example: a utilities line increased from a 2024 adopted $25,000 to a proposed $30,000 to provide operating cushion).

Councilors asked clarifying questions about the utility numbers and the potential to trim budgets; staff responded that the numbers were recommended by finance and could be adjusted but that the small increases were intended to provide cushion for increased usage. On motion, council adopted the three fund budgets by roll call.

Next steps: Finance staff will monitor operations and report on any recommended mid‑year adjustments if conditions (revenues/expenditures) warrant changes.