City budget reveals surplus with no tax increase planned

During a recent government meeting, officials presented a comprehensive overview of the financial status of various funds, highlighting a net positive across all departments for the upcoming fiscal year. The general fund is projected to generate revenues of $17,614,132 against expenses of $17,170,450, resulting in a surplus of $43,682.

The beach and swim center is also expected to perform well, with revenues estimated at $180,747 and expenses at $161,157, yielding a net gain of $19,590. The utilities department, TCUD, anticipates revenues of $7,635,069 against expenses of $7,482,808, leading to a surplus of $152,261. Other funds, including stormwater and events, are projected to break even, with revenues and expenditures of $1,224,000 and $226,700, respectively. The hospitality tax is expected to generate $418,000.

Overall, the total revenues across all funds are projected at $27,298,648, with expenses totaling $26,683,115, resulting in a net positive of $615,533.

A detailed breakdown of departmental expenditures for the upcoming fiscal year was also provided. Notable changes include an increase in police department spending by $252,622, bringing the total to $4,684,602, and a rise in fire department expenses by $359,227, totaling $3,274,521. Parks and Recreation is set to see an increase of $500,882, with expenditures reaching $1,825,375. Conversely, public works will experience a decrease of $80,498, with projected expenses of $1,176,090.

Importantly, officials confirmed that there will be no increase in the millage rate for the 15th consecutive year, maintaining it at 89 mills. The budget includes provisions for two new patrol officers, equipment upgrades for the police and fire departments, and a replacement bucket truck for public works.