City of West Bend
Overview
West Bend's FY2025 operating budget grew 3.93% to $50,120,086, with a multi-year SAFER grant fully funding nine firefighter positions. A newly appointed City Administrator with fiscal-management priorities strengthens willingness to consider targeted investments. Starbridge scores the city 73/100, reflecting modest but steady fiscal improvement.
Budget Analysis
The multi-year SAFER grant fully funds nine firefighter positions, higher ambulance revenues (+$276,040), and modest state aid increases are the primary revenue drivers. These factors preserve purchasing capacity despite the modest 3.93% overall budget growth rate.
Capital Projects
The adopted capital plan lists discrete equipment and vehicle procurements: public safety vehicles and tactical gear, utility meters and switches, and a wastewater sludge boiler. IT modernization lacks dedicated capital lines in the current budget cycle.
Procurement Outlook
Public safety equipment, utility meter, and wastewater system vendors match funded items. The new City Administrator's fiscal-management priorities make this a good time to engage — West Bend funds clearly scoped, high-impact purchases tied to grants and adopted capital lines.