Scott City sees 'not wealthy, but healthy' finances

A main topic of discussion at the Scott City council meeting Monday night was preliminary planning for the 2015-2016 fiscal year budgets and the city's fiscal health.

With two months left in the 2014-2015 fiscal year, revenue and expenses are supposed to be at 83 percent of their total goal.

As city administrator Ron Eskew ran through major items along the budget, he said he felt good about Scott City's financial state.

"We're not wealthy, but we're healthy," he said.

For the general funding budget, the city's overall projected revenue is $1,368,000, with the city taking in $1,317,000 -- 96 percent of what was expected.

For general funding expenses, the city projected $1,423,000 and has spent $1,211,000.

While these numbers still have two months to fluctuate, Eskew said he did not foresee any large swings before the end of the fiscal year.

Expenses from the general funding budget come from the fire department, police department and city hall. Revenue is collected through taxes, such as real-estate and property. Eskew said revenue was higher than expected, and the city has done well over the past year.

By the middle of June, the council hopes to have set next year's budget.

Other business

• The council also approved a demolition bid of $18,102 from Steve's Hauling and Excavation in Oak Ridge to demolish three projects: two sheds at 1515 Mary St. and a two-story home at 719 Second St. East.
• Approved was a resolution with J.W. and Lynn Campbell for buying their home at 2000 Main St. The sellers will receive a check for $35,000 and a donation certificate reflecting the difference between the check and the appraised value of the property. Mayor Tim Porch suggested a few options for the property, none of which is final. Those ranged from renting it to a business to leveling the property or forming a control center for the fire department.
• Police chief David Leeman announced patrolman Adam Hilse is resigning from the department to pursue paramedic school. He said Travis Sheppard would be moving from dispatch to patrol, and a new hire is in the works to fill Sheppard's position.

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pertinent address:

215 Chester Avenue, Scott City