Council passes budget
No mill levy increase for 2009

The City Council approved the 2009 budget on Aug. 5. The total budget for all funds is $109.1 million, a decrease of $3 million compared to the 2008 budget of $112.1 million.

The city’s existing financial condition remains sound, although revenue collections are being influenced by the economic slowdown and the machinery and equipment/utility property tax exemption implemented by the Kansas legislature. Overall, the major revenue sources in the general fund are projected to increase by 10.6 percent in 2009, due to the 3/8-cent sales tax increase approved by voters in May. The sales tax increase, along with the city’s strong financial policies and positive financial results for 2007 allows the following:

• No mill levy increase (projected mill levy is 26.477 mills, same as 2008)

• Maintains appropriate reserve levels in city funds

• Maintains existing city services and covers increased fuel and energy costs

• Provides additional funding for pavement maintenance as part of the 3/8-cent sales tax increase.

Due to the economic slowdown, the budget does not include funding for any new personnel in 2009.

To view the budget document, visit the Finance dept website.