The Minonk City Council approved its budget for this year. Mayor Koos reported that the budget process went fairly smooth. He said "In 2001 we started a budget process where we started laying out our expenses for 5 years and started budgeting things and putting money into capital reserve. We started really tightening the check book and looking at our long range plan in all City departments. We also tried to prioritize back in 2001 and start laying out the budget and this budget process this year was the first time that we actually went the full 5 years."
Koos said that the budget process has proved to be a very fair and equitable process for all departments and has been fair to the taxpayers. He also said "We have a very fiscally responsible City Administrator and City Council and I appreciate that and I think the community appreciates it also."
Koos also reported that five years ago the City Funds were about $857,000 and it appears that there will be $1,500,000 this year. He added that the sales tax is increasing and developments are starting to play a role in the budget on a yearly basis.
Motor Fuel Tax Resolution Passed
The City Council approved a resolution that allocates $84,000 of Motor Fuel Tax funds for the purpose of maintaining streets and highways. City Administrator Trent Smith said the funds will be used to oil and chip city roads and to do some spray patching on cracks on other roads. He said two areas that will be oil and chipped specifically this year will be the Third Street extension between Oak Street and Chestnut Street and the parking area behind City Hall that is used for the food pantry patrons.
Other business
Mayor Koos announced the resignation of Darren Hester from the Recreation Board. The council approved Jeff Keller as his replacement.
City Administrator Trent Smith reported that he and Police Chief Cavera will be going to Springfield Tuesday to pick up the new Ford Explorer vehicle that was purchased for the police department.
In closing, the Mayor reminded everyone that Spring Clean Up Days are on April 29 (Sunday) and April 30 (Monday).