TCID Confronts $1.8 Million Budget Shortfall; Board Approves Cuts and Spending Adjustments

Facing a significant cash gap in its upcoming fiscal year, the Truckee-Carson Irrigation District board worked through a series of cuts and creative adjustments during its July meeting to address a projected $1.8 million shortfall.

Although the operational budget appeared balanced—with revenues estimated at $43,000 over expenses—the district faced a notable deficit due to major capital projects and the need for local matches on grant-funded improvements. Primary drivers of the gap included TCID’s share of the new Tower Project, estimated at $1 million, and an uncertain cost tied to Power Plant repairs, with a placeholder of $336,000.

The board’s finance committee recommended using $1 million in state grant funds to meet the federal match requirement for the Tower Project this year, deferring TCID’s own cash contribution to next year. This strategy reduced the shortfall to $1.1 million.

To close the gap further, the board delayed or removed several planned equipment purchases, facility upgrades, and software projects. These included shelving CDL training, office improvements, canal sensors, and various maintenance supplies. Legal fees, fuel, and outside contracting services were also trimmed. After all cuts, the remaining shortfall dropped to approximately $77,000.

The board approved a general 4% wage increase for all staff and management. Additional raises requested by some department supervisors were not included.

In other business, the board discussed ongoing moss and grass buildup in canals, which are being addressed through treatments and monitoring. Staff noted delivery delays in areas such as the L1 and S7 laterals and encouraged water users to stay in close contact with the district during the busy first cutting.

Board members also reviewed the annual evaluation of General Manager Ben Shawcroft, praising improved transparency, staff morale, and his work in communication and grant-seeking.

“It’s been a very positive kind of work,” board member Davy Stix said. “Especially after sitting with the budget this morning, without that, we’d look much different.”

The board approved the district’s insurance package for the coming year, which included modest rate increases driven by general market conditions and expanded equipment coverage.

In addition to internal budget adjustments, TCID issued notice of a modest increase to the annual land assessment. Effective July 1, 2025, the rate will rise from $6.84 per acre to $7.13 per acre, a 4.2% increase based on the Consumer Price Index for West Urban Consumers, as allowed under NRS 539.480(3). Questions about the levy can be directed to the district at (775) 423-2141.