City administrator analyzes Seneca’s finances

Scott Moulder, the Seneca city administrator, handed out copies of his city’s pre-budget analysis that contains projections likely to wind up in the next city budgets which are due on July 1. The occasion today was a strategic planning retreat, part of which was to feature a presentation covering goal setting. New budget projections square general government expenses and revenues at $12.4 million and Light and Water expenses and revenues at $31.6 million. Increased revenues from license and permit fees reflect an interest by developers, especially in filling empty stores downtown. But the city’s financial picture is not without challenges. The city is paying higher premiums for employee health insurance and, as a result, is considering other options. They include private insurers and the state’s health plan. Moulder also expressed concern that most city departments have been spending beyond their projections.