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Ely reviews tentative FY2027 budget; council flags wage, benefits and revenue uncertainty
Summary
The Council heard the tentative FY2027 budget April 9 and discussed wage and benefit pressures (including rising PERS costs), uncertain revenues such as CTX, and the need to workshop options with Treasurer Janette Trask before the final May budget adoption.
City Treasurer Janette Trask presented the tentative budget for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2027, and said the numbers reflect higher wages and benefit costs, rising PERS contributions and continued price inflation. Trask said budget categories include higher grant-related miscellaneous receipts and cautioned that much of the draft reflects projected rather than final revenues.
Mayor Nathan Robertson said the largest portion of the tentative budget is wages and benefits and urged councilmembers to meet with Treasurer Trask to workshop options. Robertson said the City is not in the red under the tentative numbers but noted the measures are not sustainable long-term without revenue increases or expense reductions.
Councilmembers raised several concerns: Councilman Dennis Perea emphasized the need for conversations with White Pine County and the limits of temporary fixes; Councilman Terrill Trask noted one-time interfund transfers have helped pay for capital projects but cautioned about future cash flow when NDOT project reimbursements are due.
Next steps: The budget is tentative; staff will continue adjustments and return with a final proposed budget in May.
