Seneca City Council Discussing Proposed Budget

Seneca’s officials are reviewing budgets exceeding $64 million, as presented by City Administrator Scott Moulder during a special city council work session and meeting Tuesday evening. The proposals include no property tax increase, a 3% raise for city employees, and a $2 to $3 monthly sewer rate increase to offset Joint Regional Sewer Authority charges. Ted Orrel from UTEC, the city’s utilities consultant, revealed a $2.3 million shortfall in sewer charges…

While water and electric power revenues are currently sufficient, Orrel cautioned about the expiring electric power purchase arrangement in fiscal year 2025, potentially leading to increased costs. To prepare for this, Orrel recommended building a cash reserve over the next 26 months for a gradual transition to higher power supply expenses.

In other news from Tuesday’s meeting, James Harrison, a Boy Scout, earned his Eagle Scout badge by renovating a playground for the children of Lydia Baptist Church in Newry. He successfully raised $3,000 for the project, which garnered attention from the Seneca City Council. Mayor Dan Alexander presented James with a certificate of appreciation during the council meeting, and James generously donated the remaining $700 from the project to the church after covering all expenses.