At tonight's town trustees meeting, discussions on the 2014 budget and economic development strategy will resume.
Mancos leaders pondering the town's 2014 budget recently received a third quarter report, which reveals that total sales tax revenues through the end of September were slightly more than $277,000. More than a third of all sales tax revenues were generated from retail necessities, a quarter was earned from food and beverage sales and a fifth came from utilities.
In her report, town clerk and treasurer Heather Alvarez revealed that general fund sales tax receipts are eight percent higher than expected year to date. The report indicates total revenue is "significantly above" the 75 percent target amount, but the report also reveals that total expenditures are "slightly above" the target of 75 percent through the end of September.
The town's projected $1 million-plus budget for 2014 is expected to include some revisions based on feedback from trustees at a budget workshop held Nov. 6.
Highlights of the proposed 2014 budget include a two percent cost of living adjustment combined with a one percent merit increase for salaries. Town administrator Andrea Phillips said staff would also research other insurance plans next year to find savings.
In regard to town services, the proposed budget calls for additional funding for Board of Trustees training to assist with strategic planning efforts. The town also plans to appropriate nearly $21,000 for a part time independent economic development contractor.
The trustees meeting at Town Hall starts at 7 p.m. today.
tbaker@cortezjournal.com