Wabash, IN, January 25, 2019 – The City of Wabash is pleased to announce that at the close of 2018, unspent budgeted monies were returned to the general fund. The city’s leadership and Clerk Treasurer Wendy Frazier focused on operating in a fiscally responsible manner paying close attention to fund distribution in 2018.
“All department heads are cognizant of their budget and spending,” said Mayor Long. We anticipate expenditures and budget accordingly. Together we are consistently seeking ways to reduce operating expenses without sacrificing the quality of place for our citizens.”
Specifically, an energy conservation plan adopted by the city included the installation of energy-efficient lighting. This resulted in a $10,000+ annual savings. In addition to adopting an effective energy conservation plan, the reduction in spent funds is due to the mandatory built-in property tax cap. Savings were also realized in our Health Care costs for 2018 with a less than 1% increase projected for the coming year.
Monies returned to the general fund allow the Clerk Treasurer to invest more money and save for the future.
Clerk treasurer Wendy Frazier said, “The budgetary process can be very challenging and sometimes difficult to achieve. The collaboration, knowledge, and frugal spending truly helps Mayor Long and I achieve the city’s goal. Taxpayers first.”
The city has projected key areas of expense for 2019.
“Anticipated large-scale expenditures exceeding $100,000 in 2019 include addressing the blight of the previous GDX Automotive location,” said Mayor Long,” and utilizing matching grant funds for the completion of the railroad overpass.
The Clerk Treasurer’s Office works collaboratively with the Mayor, department heads, the Board of Works, and City Council to be responsible stewards of all monies received. Clerk treasurer Frazier monitors legislative changes relative to City Government and ensures compliance with State Statues and State Board of Accounts regulations.