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Special to the Courier
Financial audit completed
City Council completed its fiscal year 2023/24 financial audit, conducted by Singleton, Clark & Company. The audit reviewed internal financial controls, payroll, employee records and accounts payable/receivable, said City Manager Robert Tamble in his October report.
With expenditures coming in under revenues by $80,000 on a $15.7 million budget, the city saw a surplus of approximately 0.5%. This surplus will be added to the fiscal year’s reserve account.
The official audit report is expected to be released in April. The council reviewed and voted on budget amendments at the Oct. 21 meeting.
Sales tax revenue increase
Smithville’s sales tax revenue saw a 10.61% increase in October, compared to the same period last year, bringing in $69,136, according to reports. Year-todate sales tax collections now total $717,650.
City officials noted that local spending on goods and services, such as at restaurants, stores and online deliveries, plays a key role in boosting the city’s budget.
The city manager urged residents to continue shopping local, as every purchase contributes to Smithville’s financial health.
Residential electricity rates decrease
Smithville residents will see a reduction in their electricity rates this month. The city’s cost per kilowatt hour is set at $0.1162, an 8.5% decrease from September's rate of $0.1270. The change reflects lower fuel costs for electric generation and transmission, according to Tamble.
The average cost per kWh in Smithville fluctuates between 13 and 14 cents for residential service, the report said.
Notice-to-Airman authorization submitted
The city of Smithville updated its 2024 FAA Notice-to-Airman authorization for Smithville- Crawford Municipal Airport. This ensures timely notifications to pilots regarding potential hazards or changes to flight conditions, such as air shows, temporary flight restrictions or closed runways.
Sandy Meyerson, Ken Peck and JD Casteel have been authorized to issue, modify or cancel Class D NOTAMs in collaboration with the airport manager.
Measurement and verification audit completed
Ameresco conducted its annual measurement and verification audit to validate the energy savings achieved through Smithville's utility infrastructure upgrades, including the 'smart meter' project.
The audit report, due in January, will confirm cost savings. The city anticipates that the savings over the next seven years will cover the lease and interest payments for the project, Tamble said. The audit is an annual requirement under the city’s lease agreement.
Upcoming events
City Hall will close at noon Wednesday, Oct. 23, for the filming of a feature movie.
The next Chamber of Commerce luncheon will be held Wednesday, Oct. 23, from 11:15 a.m. to 1 p.m. at VFW Post 1309. The event is hosted by Smithville Community Clinic, which will also be the keynote speaker. Attendees can register online or call 512-237-2313 for more information.
Smithville City Hall will serve as a drop-off location for National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day Saturday, Oct. 26, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Residents can dispose of old or unused medications. For questions, contact Sharlene Scheler at 210-259-3733.
The next Planning & Zoning Commission meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, Nov. 5, 6 p.m. at City Hall.
