Observations all along the line - Kimball & the Southern Panhandle First

Council scrutinizes dire budget, considers listing Event Center

The recent Kimball City Council budget workshop began nearly 30 minutes late as city employees made copies of the budget for more than 30 citizens in attendance.

With a budget shortfall of approximately $100,000, the mill levy nearing its limit, and with Keno receipts being at the lowest point since February of 2015, Kimball's council has tough decisions to make.

"Two years ago we brought $765,000 (in sales tax revenue)," City Administrator Daniel Ortiz said. "This year we are on track to bring in just shy of $500,000. Last year we really cut back on sales tax and budgeted $605,000. That inclu...