Council OKs Budget on First Reading

The Olney City Council passed the first reading of the 2025–26 budget ordinance at a special called meeting on Sept. 15.

The Council also held a required public hearing, but no residents came forward with questions or comments. The budget will return for a final vote before the new fiscal year begins Oct. 1.

The proposed budget anticipates $6.2 million in revenues and $5.9 million in expenditures.

It sets a property tax rate of $0.862126 per $100 valuation, producing an estimated tax levy of $1.19 million — less than last year’s levy of $1.29 million.

The Council was expected to approve the budget at its Sept. 22 meeting.

Police Department: $1,051,199 — the city’s largest departmental budget, covering salaries, raises, and the ongoing vehicle lease program.

Streets: $361,265 — includes a raise for employees and street maintenance.

General Administration: $176,880 — provides for City Hall and Council Chamber repairs.

Parks & Recreation: $188,256 — reflects employee raises and facility upkeep.

Fire Department: $55,892 — maintains one salaried position and covers essential maintenance, radios, firefighting equipment and supplies.

Municipal Court: $116,509 — includes compensation for judge, jury trials, court technology, building security, continuing education and training.

Code Enforcement: $33,600 - Includes salary and benefits, advertising and publication funds, vehicle, fuel and uniforms, travel expense, mowing, and a contract inspector’s compensation.

Commuinity Facilities: $29,062 - Includes utilities, janitorial supplies, Senior Cub and Civic Center maintenance, and some operations costs.

Finance Department: $278,418 — supports operations, salaries, and accounting functions.

Utility & Infrastructure: Utility and water income is projected at $2.98 million, with expenditures of $2.32 million.

The budget includes raises and funding for two new employees at the Water Treatment and Wastewater Plants.

Capital improvement expenses are projected at $889,435, with bond principal payments rising for both the 2015 and 2022 revenue bond series.

Wastewater operations are budgeted at $324,365, reflecting higher salaries and insurance costs.

The airport fund projects $62,000 in revenue and $36,720 in expenses, with fuel sales expected to rise.

With the first reading complete, the Council must approve the budget ordinance on second reading before the Oct. 1 start of the fiscal year.