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Chadron holds public hearing on FY2026–27 budget; first-reading ordinance set for Aug. 17
Summary
City of Chadron finance officer presented a balanced first-reading budget for FY2026–27 with roughly $300,350 in general‑fund reserves; council and staff discussed department cuts, capital changes and property‑tax estimates ahead of a second reading on Aug. 17.
The City of Chadron opened a public hearing on the proposed fiscal‑year 2026–27 budget and received a staff presentation and council questions before adjourning the hearing and moving to regular business. Michelle Stoke, finance officer for the City of Chadron, told the council the first draft had been revised with multiple cuts and is balanced with "about 300,350 thousand in, fund balance for the general fund."
Stoke said she had prepared a corrected second reading after finding errors in the first published draft and asked council members to flag any remaining concerns. Council discussion detailed a proposed $5,800,000 general‑fund request (recorded as a 7% decrease from the prior plan), department‑level reductions (building and zoning targeted for roughly a 12% cut) and a 53% reduction to contingent reserves to balance priorities and preserve street and utility maintenance. Council members also asked staff to clarify several capital changes, including removal of a replacement city vehicle and an airport mower.
On the revenue side, council and staff discussed property‑tax projections and the mill levy. Stoke used the current valuation for projections but reminded the council that county valuations are not finalized until mid‑August. The first reading of the annual‑appropriations ordinance (Ordinance No. 14‑49) was read by title and the second reading was scheduled for 08/17/2026. The council encouraged members to submit follow‑up questions by email to staff before the next draft.
