Commission adopts final 2026 budget after adjustments for benefits and capital needs

The Truth or Consequences City Commission approved the final budget for the fiscal year after a staff presentation that highlighted steps taken to include carryover capital items (streets sweeper, sanitation truck) and to reflect increases in retirement (PERA) and health insurance costs.

Staff said the general fund ended the fiscal year with roughly $2.1 million in cash, which allowed the city to restore some line items and add budgeted dollars for an employee payroll study. "We ended in the general fund, we ended with about 2.1," the finance lead said, noting the improved cash position compared with an interim projection of about $1.8 million. Staff also cautioned that timing of reimbursements and certain internal negatives will be addressed through routine cleanups.

Commissioners moved and seconded a resolution to approve the final budget; the motion passed by recorded ayes. Staff and the new audit firm will proceed with the audit process now that the depreciation and asset schedules are being certified.

Provenance: Topic introduced at SEG 355 and last discussed at SEG 667.