The City of Lead is moving its annual budget schedule back by several weeks in an effort to make more informed financial decisions.
The Lead City Commission approved an ordinance last week that shifts the introduction of the city’s 2027 budget to its first meeting in November. In past years, the budget was typically finalized during the commission’s second meeting in September.
Mayor Dustin Heupel says the change will allow city leaders to review more up-to-date sales tax revenue figures before making budget decisions. Previously, budget discussions began in July, when only the first six months of sales tax data were available.
While state law allows municipalities to delay budget approval until November, Lawrence County Auditor Brenda McGruder noted that property tax levy information must still be certified to the county by October 1 so tax notices can be prepared and mailed.
City Administrator Robin Lucero says commissioners will review property assessment values and determine the city’s tax request before that deadline, although a date for that discussion has not yet been set.
Under the proposed timeline, budget discussions will begin September 27th and continue through October, with a draft budget expected by October 25th. The first reading of the 2027 budget ordinance is scheduled for November 2nd, with final adoption planned for November 15th.
Officials say the schedule may be adjusted as needed during the budget process.
