The city of Trenton is set to operate with a nearly six million dollar budget as the new fiscal year begins on May 1. It faces a deficit budget for the upcoming year, with expenditures exceeding revenues by $582,207. Total expenditures from all departments are estimated at $5,991,492, while projected revenues from all sources stand at $5,174,285. If these projections hold, the city of Trenton’s fund balance by April 30, 2025, would decrease to $3,187,009.
Trenton Municipal Utilities (TMU) is expected to experience a slight deficit after accounting for equipment depreciation. Gross revenues from all three funds are anticipated to exceed $13,538,458, with total expenses expected to surpass $11,316,407. Equipment depreciation accounts for $2,335,000, resulting in a net revenue deficit of $112,950 for the year.
The electric fund is projected to incur a loss of $318,205 for the year. However, it was reported to the finance committee that the electric department’s reserves would remain above the required minimum of $2.2 million. Conversely, the water fund is expected to show a surplus of $40,872, and the wastewater fund has a net gain of $164,383. Both funds are also projected to maintain reserves above their respective minimum amounts.
It is forecasted that TMU will conclude the current fiscal year with unrestricted cash and investments totaling over three million dollars in both the electric and wastewater sectors and nearly $2.3 million in the water fund.
The city of Trenton’s budget includes specific projections such as asphalt sales to MoDOT and other customers, estimated at $2,125,000. This is a decrease from last year’s $3,411,221. The budget allocates $139,000 from the Highway 6 sidewalk grant through MoDOT.
Planned capital projects for the forthcoming year comprise $150,000 for the city’s share of the 13th and Main storm drainage work, in partnership with NCMC. Additionally, $264,000 is allocated for street overlay and maintenance.
Nearly one million dollars ($977,000) are proposed for the construction of a four-bay T-hanger at the airport and related engineering costs, with a significant portion funded by federal sources.
Trenton’s next payment for its share of the 17th Street Bridge project is $176,700, marking the third of seven payments. The city originally borrowed $1,150,000 for its portion, with additional funding from the railroad, MoDOT, and a community development block grant.
Salaries for the city administrator, city clerk, and department heads will remain unchanged. However, a new position for an assistant city clerk has been created, with an annual compensation of $60,346.
The Trenton Convention and Visitors Bureau Budget anticipates equal revenues and expenses of $50,000, with a current cash reserve of $83,000. Revenue is generated through a five percent lodging tax in Trenton. Newly included in this budget is $3,500 for a mini-grant program to help businesses promote events that attract visitors to Trenton. The grant application process is yet to be finalized. Additionally, $25,000 has been allocated for way-finding signage.
