Concord Finance Committee Reviews Golf Debt, Arena Subsidy, and Utility Rate Hikes

Other Committee · Meeting of June 1, 2026

Concord Finance Committee scrutinizes golf debt, arena subsidy, and rising utility rates in marathon fiscal 2027 budget session. Mayor Champlin convened the June 1 committee-of-the-whole meeting to review special revenue and enterprise funds, with the golf course, arena, and wastewater funds generating the most debate. Finance Director LeBrun told councilors that the Beaver Meadow Golf Course is projected to finish fiscal year 2026 with a $344,000 gain but will run a $122,000 loss in fiscal year 2027 as the fund transfers $250,000 to the general fund toward the $494,000 first-year payment on a $5.6 million clubhouse bond; after that transfer and a recreation reserve contribution, the net property tax impact on a $400,000 home is estimated at $25.39.

The arena fund will receive its first-ever operating subsidy from the general fund, $170,000, in fiscal year 2027, with the city manager saying whether to remain in the arena business "is really up to the city council." A proposed 15 percent wastewater rate increase adds $5.72 per month for the average household, with 20 percent increases projected for fiscal years 2028 and 2029 driven by $1.1 million in new debt service; a 6 percent water rate increase adds $1.65 per month. A work session on the full budget is scheduled for Thursday at 5:30 p.m.

In the full story:

• Who Was There
• Organizations And Documents Referenced
• The complete report — 4,210 words

Source: the Other Committee meeting of June 1, 2026, reported from the official video recording and transcript.