The City of Hutchinson’s General Fund Balance is projected to decline by $1.3M for the remainder of 2020 largely due to a drop in sales tax revenue in the wake of the COVID-19 crisis. City Manager John Deardoff, working closely with department heads, has developed a measured approach to addressing the inevitable financial impact.
“We are fortunate to have a strong fund balance, which we have made a priority in recent years. While that exists for unexpected downturns like this, it would be irresponsible to rely solely on that reserve while so many others in our community are tightening their belts,” Deardoff said. “That fund will absorb some of the impact, but we want to make sure to maintain some cushion for the future.”
Phase I was implemented on March 30 and included a reduction of seasonal labor and a hiring freeze in select departments.
(Read more: Hutchinson, KS – News Flash)
