• Refuse/Enterprise Fund receipts through September are at 85% of budget, and disbursements and encumbrances are at 74% of budget.
  • 2026 BUDGET OVERVIEW
    • 2026 Budget Assumptions: The 2026 budget includes the integration of an organizational assessment and an anticipated increase in payroll and benefits, which remain the largest expense category. A 16% rise in health insurance premiums is also projected. The Cost of Living increase, according to the Public Safety Collective Bargaining Agreement, is set at 3.75%, raising the base salaries for 2026 to $9.1 million from $8.9 million in 2025. Health insurance costs are projected at $2,344,522, with an H.S.A. contribution of $295,000. Capital expenditures proposed include purchasing a fire truck for $950,000, various water main improvements, and a Park Renovation Project.
    • Budget Revenues, Expenses, and Expenditures: The 2026 budget reflects a revenue mix that closely resembles that of 2025, with the notable addition of $513,000 in anticipated forfeiture funds. On the expenditure side, the budget maintains a proportional alignment with 2025’s figures. Notably, it includes $507,000 allocated for forfeiture fund expenditures, alongside $67,000 earmarked for the Fire Insurance Trust. Together, these elements contribute to a comprehensive financial strategy for the upcoming year.

    Ms. Leonard displayed a 2025/26 expense pie chart, highlighting several key areas of expenditure. She explained that funds have been set aside for aggregated refuse and enterprise capital projects, which include a sidewalk project, playground renovations, and improvements to facilities at the operations center and public works. Another critical investment noted is in the procurement of a new fire truck.

  • CURRENT AND FUTURE INITIATIVES: Ms. Leonard discussed several current and future initiatives that are essential for financial planning. One of the key topics was the CityTax partnership, particularly the timeline for implementing the e-file outsource processing. There are also plans to streamline payroll and internal manual processes. Revenue assumptions are under review, with a focus on anticipated increases in water and sewer rates. Additionally, a refuse rate increase is slated for 2027. The renewal levy for 2026 is also on the agenda, alongside our Direct Pay Campaign, which aims to promote more efficient payment processing. These initiatives will play a crucial role in shaping the budget strategy moving forward.
  • GENERAL FUND REVENUES: The 2026 budgeted General Fund revenues are projected as follows: property tax $3,166,969; income tax $11,550,000; interest revenue $525,000; and other revenues $622,655. Ms. Leonard also presented a chart illustrating income and property tax collections from 2005 to the present.

Mrs. Smiddy briefly discussed components of the Water Master Plan, focusing on the Cost of Service, the Comprehensive Management and Financial Review (CMMR), and next steps regarding the lead service lines, which the Environmental Protection Agency oversees. Mrs. Smiddy also discussed staffing recommendations arising from the organization assessment. These recommendations include creating a Facility Maintenance position, establishing a combined Horticulturist/Foreman role, and adding a new Management Analyst position. Additionally, positions for a Custodian at OCC, Water Plant Superintendent, Water & Sewer Foreman, and a