City Finances and Water Fund Deficit
Summary
The annual audit shows the city is financially stable now but faces trouble ahead: the general fund surplus was mostly one-time money, and the water fund ran a $1 million-plus deficit and borrowed $1.7 million from the general fund. A water rate study is underway.
At a glance
- Total mentions
- 4
- Last 30 days
- 0
Last discussed Jun 9, 2026.
Impact analysis
Roughly $2 million general fund surplus, offset by a water fund deficit over $1 million and $32 million in pension liabilities.
Residents who benefit from strong reserves and transparency.
Water ratepayers, who may face rate increases from the pending rate study.
Mentions & discussions (4)
City Council Meeting - Jun 9, 2026
The water fund is projected to lose $1.4 million next year, its fourth straight year borrowing $850,000 from the general fund — now $2.55 million total. Staff says a water rate study with full cost recovery is coming soon.
City Council Meeting - Apr 14, 2026
A new as-needed agreement with Pureflow Filtration Division, up to $50,000, keeps filtration support available for the city's water system — timely after the new Jackson/Garfield water well milestone.
City Council Meeting - Feb 10, 2026
The midyear report shows the water fund deficit widening to $2.6 million. A water rate study is underway, and new Well 16 is expected to help bring the fund back into balance.
City Council Meeting - Jan 13, 2026
The annual audit shows the city is financially stable now but faces trouble ahead: the general fund surplus was mostly one-time money, and the water fund ran a $1 million-plus deficit and borrowed $1.7 million from the general fund. A water rate study is underway.
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