Cheney's budget will be tighter in 2025

CHENEY – The city’s financial forecast for 2025, discussed during the city council’s budget meeting on October 10, revealed a mixed picture for both general and enterprise funds.

According to Finance Director Cindy Niemeier, enterprise fund revenues are expected to decrease by $793,100, a 4.79% drop compared to this year. On the other hand, the general fund is projected to increase by $187,100, or 2.84%.

During the meeting, Niemeier clarified the distinction between the two types of funds. General funds cover a variety of city services, including street maintenance, the EMS Levy, criminal justice, parks and recreation, Information Technology, general obligation debt, capital facilities, and capital projects.

These funds are primarily supported by taxes, fees, service charges, levies, bonds, contract fees, court administration fees, fines, parks and recreation fees, and grants.

Enterprise funds, in contrast, are generated from city-operated services such as electricity, water, solid waste, and sewer.

Niemeier explained that these departments function like independent businesses, with their own balance sheets, income statements, and profit and loss accounts. Importantly, enterprise funds must remain separate from both each other and the general fund.

“This meeting marks the beginning of the budget process,” Niemeier said, noting that department heads will soon present their budget plans to the city council. These presentations, along with opportunities for public comment, will take place in upcoming council meetings.

Niemeier concluded by stating that city council is expected to approve the final budget as an ordinance in December, with the budget taking effect five days after approval.