Treasurer reports $25.9 million cash on hand; Ehlers presents 2026 debt-financing options

Treasurer DeLap presented the monthly financial summary for Vernon County: total cash on hand as of Jan. 31 was $25,896,032.40; receipts for the reporting period were $5,534,117.50; total delinquent property taxes stood at $1,076,484.61; sales tax collections were reported as $221,012.38.

During the 2026 financing discussion, Sean Lentz of Ehlers presented options for financing the county's 2026 capital budget and explained differences between general-obligation securities and bank loans. The minutes record that current market conditions projected about 3.67% for securities; the presentation was framed as advisory guidance and did not include a committee decision to pursue a specific financing vehicle.

Finance Director Anne Lockyer reviewed year-to-date financials and told the committee the Finance Department is handling end-of-year closings, payroll reporting and upcoming audit field work. The committee adjourned at 11:50 a.m.; the next meeting is scheduled for March 17 at 2:00 p.m. in the Vernon County Board Room.