Page 146 - CityofWataugaAdoptedBudgetFY25

BUDGET SUMMARY

funds. In FY2024-2025, $2,354,049 has been budgeted in grant revenues and
expenditures, which includes infrastructure projects that will are scheduled to begin in
FY2023-2024. These include the lead pipe identification project, enhanced funding for a
water and sewer project, and the Park Vista drainage project. Additional funding is
provided for personnel programs to target recruitment and retaining staff.

Proprietary Funds

Storm Drainage Fund

A $11.00 fee per month per residential utility account was adopted through the Code of
Ordinances, to enhance drainage of properties within the City. Commercial accounts are
charged a uniform rate, but the amount charged is based on impervious area. The fee is
billed and collected through the Utility Billing Office and is 99.8% of the Storm Drain Utility
Revenues. Projections are based on the active accounts and rate charges. The last fee
review was conducted in FY2024.

Total charges for services are forecast to be $1,485,000 for service charges, with total
revenues of $1,615,000. Total expenditures are $4,649,840. The operating expenditure
budget is $960,640, with additional transfers to other funds in the amount of $194,000.
This year, $3,495,200 in capital projects are included in the budget to include the drainage
portion of Whitley Road Phase 5, Bunker Hill drainage and Echo Hill. The projected
ending fund resources will be $1,702,160 if all budgeted capital projects are completed.

Water and Sewer Fund

The Utility Billing Office bills and collects revenues from the sale of potable water
and the disposal of sewage discharge for single and multifamily residential
buildings and commercial facilities inside the City. Projected revenues for these
fees are generally based on population estimates, although weather conditions
play a significant factor in revenues actually received. The City is 96% built out and
increases in customer accounts are projected to remain fairly flat in future years.
Water and sewer sales constitute 94% of the Water and Sewer Utility Fund
revenues. Other revenues such as penalty revenue, service charges, interest and
transfers make up 6% of the total revenues. Total charges for water and
wastewater services are forecast to be $10,050,000, with total revenues of
$10,725,000 and total available resources are $13,879,207. A rate increase is
anticipated for wastewater services and is included in this budget. A rate model
review is underway, and a rate increase will be presented in 2024 for
consideration. The City contracts with the City of Ft. Worth for wastewater
treatment and the City of North Richland Hills for water purchases. Wastewater
collection and treatment costs have risen drastically in the last two fiscal years.

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