City projected to have $1 million surplus
New Carlisle is projected to have a surplus of $1 million in their general fund after records are reconciled for 2019, according to city officials.
“It’s a big accomplishment,” said City Manager Randy Bridge.
The final year end numbers are not yet determined, but it “will more than likely” end up with $1 million, Bridge said.
“We as a city have all worked hard to get to this point financially,” said Mayor Mike Lowry.
The city had to watch finances for five years, but Bridge said council has hit the city’s goal.
“Six or seven years ago, New Carlisle was really running tight on money, and city council buttoned down and the citizens really stepped up and supported a police levy for us, which was really crucial for us,” said Lowry. “It’s turned our city around and we’ve been able to do things that we haven’t been able to.”
Councilman Dale Grimm said he remembers when the city ended the year with only $195.
“This progress really puts the city in great position for future projects, like more street repairs to be done or parks to be updated or new equipment to be pur- chased that we have held off on doing because finances were not in order,” Lowry said.
Residents passed a half-percent income tax in May 2015, which can only be used for police protection.
New Carlisle doesn’t have its own police force, but con- tracts with the Clark County Sheriff ’s Office to have depu- ties patrol the city. New Car- lisle is responsible for paying the deputy’s salaries, benefits and other expenses.
“Probably one of our big- gest expenses because more police and it keeps our town safe,” Lowry said. “Police budget is over $500,000 a year, so that’s a big chunk of money to come up with if you don’t have the funds to do it.”
The $450,000 a year police levy that residents renewed in November 2019 has helped with reopening the city pool, work on street repairs and upgrade parks.
“Citizens stepped up and passed the income tax to pay for it and helped us a tremendous amount,” Lowry said. “We’re definitely moving the city in the right direction and been extremely responsible with taxpayer money.”
The renewed levy puts the income tax into effect until 2025.
“The entire city and its citizens benefit from this and we will continue to work on improving our finances even further for the future,” said Lowry.
Contact this reporter at 937-328-0356 or email brooke.spurlock@cmg.com.