News was mostly positive as Fairfield City Council heard reports from Department Heads and the City’s Financial Auditor during their Regular Session on Tuesday, June 25, 2019.
According to City Administrator Nate Smith, sales tax was 9.10 percent higher than this time last year, and the month of June was up 39 percent.
Smith says he will be looking closely the next several months to see if, indeed, an upward trend is developing.
Public Works Director Clyde Woods reported that County Fair Week concluded with no negativity with the Parks Department, while Chief of Police David Utsey related having a few more calls than normal, but only because there were more people. “It was busier than the last several years,” he said.
The lack of lights in the parking area, and on the Highway 84 where fair-goers cross, were of concern to both Director Woods and Chief Utsey.
Temporary polls with flashing lights were suggested by Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Brenda Pate during her report.
Pate also reported a full calendar of events for the City of Fairfield for the rest of the year. Upcoming dates include Fireworks on July 4th, a Lunch & Learn on July 12th, and the Fuzzy Peach Festival on July 20th.
Frank Steele of Anderson, Marx & Bohl, P.C. presented the Annual Audit Report, relating that the City of Fairfield is doing well in continuing to adjust to a challenging economy and decline in sales tax revenue.
“Good to hear that sales tax is beginning to come back,” he said, adding that Fairfield’s location on Interstate 45 is a fortunate benefit.
Among the findings in the latest audit include:
–City’s total combined net position was $11,059,787 at September 30, 2018.
–Total cost of City’s programs decreased by $165,280 from last year.
–Over the course of the year, the City revised its budget several times while decreasing actual expenditures to $378,413 below the budgeted amount.
–Total expenses were $445,739 more than the $5,487,118 generated in taxes and other revenue.
City Administrator Smith also noted that this year’s audit shows no deficiencies and no adverse opinions, crediting City Secretary Misty Richardson.
He also commended the entire staff for their efficiency in helping to lower costs. “It is a total team effort,” said Smith.
Other items approved by Council include:
–Amending ordinances relating to officer and employee conflict of interests to clear up vague language and bring in line with State Law.
–Following an update on Oak Street from Mike Tibbets of Hayter Engineering, Inc., Council approved going out for final bids.
–Up to $19,000 from Hotel/Motel funds approved for the Moody-Bradley House Foundation, Inc. for an upcoming fundraiser, featuring a Beatles tribute band. Proceeds will be used for matching grant for historical preservation.
–Invoice payment approved for overage on repair costs for the City’s ladder truck, as re-submitted by Siddons-Martin.
Following a closed Executive Session concerning Police Department employees, Albert Gallegos, Jr. was promoted to Sergeant, and Harold Markham and Rodney Price were both promoted to Corporal.
No action was taken concerning staff recommendations on the employment of Ronald Corley.
Also on this date, a short workshop featured a presentation from Joe Sanchez with TML Health to assist the City in saving costs while keeping health benefits for employees.
