The Casey City Council on Monday gave its final approval to a $33.27 million appropriation ordinance for the 2026 fiscal year. The spending plan, which sets the legal limit for city expenditures, is heavily weighted with funds for major infrastructure projects, grant-dependent initiatives, and pass-through federal dollars.

The council formally adopted the ordinance during its regular meeting following a public hearing held just prior, where finance committee members detailed the extensive plan. Officials were quick to point out that the large total appropriation figure does not represent the city’s actual operating budget.

“Our budget is basically 80% of what this is,” a finance committee member explained. He noted that the appropriation includes funding for numerous grants the city has applied for but may not receive. “Just because it has to be appropriated before it can be done, it doesn’t have to be done just because it’s appropriated. If we don’t have the funds, you don’t have to spend it.”

A significant portion of the appropriations is for one-time capital projects. This includes $1.8 million to extend city utilities across Interstate 70, a critical step for future development. Utility Superintendent Shelby Biggs confirmed that the water and sewer line extensions are moving forward first. The plan also contains a $1.6 million pass-through appropriation for work at the Casey Municipal Airport, which is primarily funded by a federal grant that the city administers.

Another major item is a potential $1.6 million sewer relining project. This work is contingent on the city securing a CPF grant; if awarded, the city’s required local match would be $320,000, which has been appropriated.

The plan also addresses city infrastructure and blight. The council appropriated $293,750 for the abatement of dangerous properties, an issue of growing importance. During the hearing, Alderman Marcy Mumford questioned if the amount would be sufficient, given the high cost of demolishing large buildings. Council members acknowledged it would not cover every needed demolition but would allow them to address the highest-priority properties.

Funds are also set aside for renovations at City Hall, including security upgrades for the collector’s office. These costs, totaling over $65,000, were split between the water and electric utility funds. A $300,000 contingency fund is also included in the General Fund for unforeseen emergencies, though officials noted it is rarely used.

Following the public hearing, which had no public comment, the council reconvened for its regular session and passed Ordinance #587, formally adopting the appropriations for the fiscal year that begins May 1, 2025.