Mid-Year Update of City’s Financial Condition from the Mayor

To keep Baldwin residents informed about the city’s finances, I have outlined several updates that I believe are important to share.

• The city remains cautious with spending. Reserves for the sewer and water utilities still fall short of current policy requirements. Although these areas are slowly improving, the city continues to closely monitor reserve levels.
• The City Council will meet soon to work on the 2027 budget. These meetings are open to the public, and I encourage anyone interested in the city’s financial future to attend. Meeting dates, times, and locations will be posted on the city website. The first Budget Worksession is scheduled for Tuesday, June 23rd, at 6pm at the Community Center.
• The City Council and I have strengthened the city’s lease agreements for current and prospective tenants who rent city property. Earlier agreements did not adequately protect the city or its residents and created potential legal risks. The current lease template, reviewed and approved by the City Council, addresses many of those concerns. Although the process has involved some challenges, the city’s adopted lease agreement is now more professional and better aligned with standard business practices.
• As mayor, the best short-term approach is to continue steadily building all reserve funds. We can do this by avoiding major capital improvement projects for now.
• I plan to focus on supporting Baldwin’s current businesses while also exploring opportunities for future revenue and growth through light industry.
• During the summer, the city will update and repaint the downtown area, crosswalks, and traffic lane markings.
• Finally, while we are working to control spending, some funds will still need to be used for unforeseen emergencies. Please know that the City Council and I will manage both emergency and routine operating expenses responsibly.

-- Gerry Cullumber