Wellman approves city budget

By John Butters
Posted 5/17/22

Following a public hearing Monday, the Wellman City Council approved its 2022-23 budget.

The maximum budgeted tax levy for 2022-23 will be $10.91 per $1,000 of assessed property value. For fiscal …

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Wellman approves city budget

Posted

Following a public hearing Monday, the Wellman City Council approved its 2022-23 budget.

The maximum budgeted tax levy for 2022-23 will be $10.91 per $1,000 of assessed property value. For fiscal 2021-22, the rate was $12.50 per $1,000.  For accounting purposes, Iowa ‘s municipal years begin on July 1 and conclude on June 30.

The lower rate was triggered by reductions in the city’s indebtedness. The reduced indebtedness and a slight increase in total revenues are expected to leave the city with a net gain of approximately $500,000 in its ending fund balance.

In other business, council members approved a two-year extension of a leasing agreement at the Parkside Activity Center with Jet Physical Therapy. Council members noted that the leasing agreement has benefited the city by providing the convenience of a clinic within the city for residents requiring continuing therapy.

Council members discussed an upcoming 28E Agreement between the Wellman YMCA and the Mid-Prairie School District. As a principal in the multi-party agreements between the city, the school and the YMCA, the council provides oversight of contractual terms among the entities. Mayor Ryan Miller informed council members of some of the proposed changes in the agreement between the parties. No action was required.

In a work session following Monday’s meeting, council members considered the conditions of a new, 5-year contract between the city and the YMCA. As the property owner of the buildings and grounds used by the YMCA in the management of its programs, the city has its own separate contract with the organization.

In the discussion of contractual provisions, council members find themselves balancing the interests of the community with the expense of maintaining a recreational facility. There is general agreement on the council that the community reaps a significant benefit from the professional management of YMCA programs. Yet, to remain successful, it must find a balance between the continuing maintenance of the facility and the collection and division of revenues collected by YMCA usage.

No action was taken by the council. The contract will likely be finalized and presented to the city council for a vote in June.