OFFICIAL STATEMENT NEW ISSUE REVENUE ANTICIPATION NOTES In the opinion of Orrick, Herrington & Sutcliffe LLP, Bond Counsel, based upon an analysis of existing laws, regulations, rulings and court decisions, and assuming among other matters, the accuracy of certain representations and compliance with certain covenants, interest on the Notes is excluded from gross income for federal income tax purposes under Section 103 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986. In the further opinion of Bond Counsel, interest on the Notes is not a specific preference item for purposes of the federal individual or corporate alternative minimum taxes, although Bond Counsel observes that such interest is included in adjusted current earnings when calculating corporate alternative minimum taxable income. Bond Counsel is also of the opinion that interest on the Notes is exempt from personal income taxes imposed by the State of New York or any political subdivision thereof (including The City of New York), Bond Counsel expresses no opinion regarding any other tax consequences related to the ownership or disposition of, or the amount, accrual or receipt of interest on, the Notes. See “TAX MATTERS” herein. The Notes will be designated “qualified tax-exempt obligations” pursuant to Section 265(b) (3) of the Code. $4,000,000 CITY OF ELMIRA CHEMUNG COUNTY, NEW YORK $4,000,000 Revenue Anticipation Notes, 2016 (the “Notes”) Dated: June 10, 2016 Due: May 26, 2017 The Notes are general obligations of the City of Elmira, Chemung County, New York (the “City”) all the taxable real property within which is subject to the levy of ad valorem taxes to pay the Notes and interest thereon, subject to applicable statutory limits imposed by Chapter 97 of the Laws of 2011 of the State of New York. See “TAX LEVY LIMITATION LAW” and “NATURE OF OBLIGATION” herein. The Notes will not be subject to redemption prior to maturity. At the option of the successful bidder(s), the Notes will be issued registered in the name of the purchaser in the denominations of $5,000 or multiples thereof. Alternatively, at the option of the successful bidder(s), the Notes will be registered in the name of Cede & Co. as nominee of The Depository Trust Company (DTC), New York, New York, which will act as the securities depository for the Notes. In such case, Noteholders will not receive certificates representing their ownership interest in the notes purchased. In such case, under this option, payment of the principal of and interest on the Notes to the Beneficial Owner of the Notes will be made by DTC Participants and Indirect Participants in accordance with standing instructions and customary practices. Payment will be the responsibility of the DTC, subject to any statutory and regulatory requirements as may be in effect from time to time. See "BOOK-ENTRY-ONLY SYSTEM" herein. The Notes are offered when, as and if issued and received by the Purchaser(s) and subject to the receipt of the approving legal opinion as to the validity of the Notes of Orrick, Herrington & Sutcliffe LLP, Bond Counsel, of New York, New York. It is anticipated that the Notes will be available for delivery through the facilities of DTC located in Jersey City, New Jersey on or about June 10, 2016. ELECTRONIC BIDS for the Notes may be submitted via iPreo’s Parity Electronic Bid Submission System (“Parity”) on June 6, 2016 until 10:00 A.M., Eastern Time, pursuant to the Notice of Sale. No other form of electronic bidding services will be accepted. No bid will be received after the time for receiving bids specified above. Bids may also be submitted by facsimile at (315) 752-0057 and by telephone (315) 752-0051 Ext. 1. Once the bids are communicated electronically via Parity or facsimile or telephone to the City, each bid will constitute an irrevocable offer to purchase the Notes pursuant to the terms provided in the Notice of Sale for the Notes. June 1, 2016 THE CITY DEEMS THIS OFFICIAL STATEMENT TO BE FINAL FOR PURPOSES OF SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION RULE 15C2-12 ("THE RULE"), EXCEPT FOR CERTAIN INFORMATION THAT HAS BEEN OMITTED HEREFROM IN ACCORDANCE WITH SAID RULE AND THAT WILL BE SUPPLIED WHEN THIS OFFICIAL STATEMENT IS UPDATED FOLLOWING THE SALE OF THE OBLIGATIONS HEREIN DESCRIBED. THIS OFFICIAL STATEMENT WILL BE SO UPDATED UPON REQUEST OF THE SUCCESSFUL BIDDERS, AS MORE FULLY DESCRIBED IN THE NOTICE OF SALE WITH RESPECT TO THE OBLIGATIONS HEREIN DESCRIBED. THE CITY WILL COVENANT IN AN UNDERTAKING TO PROVIDE NOTICE OF CERTAIN MATERIAL EVENTS AS DEFINED IN THE RULE WITH RESPECT TO THE NOTES. SEE "APPENDIX C – MATERIAL EVENT NOTICES" HEREIN.
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exempt obligations” pursuant to Secti $4,000,000€¦ · $4,000,000 Revenue Anticipation Notes, 2016 (the “Notes”) Dated: June 10, 2016 Due: May 26, 2017 The Notes are general
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OFFICIAL STATEMENT
NEW ISSUE REVENUE ANTICIPATION NOTES
In the opinion of Orrick, Herrington & Sutcliffe LLP, Bond Counsel, based upon an analysis of existing laws, regulations, rulings and court decisions,
and assuming among other matters, the accuracy of certain representations and compliance with certain covenants, interest on the Notes is excluded from gross income for federal income tax purposes under Section 103 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986. In the further opinion of Bond Counsel, interest on
the Notes is not a specific preference item for purposes of the federal individual or corporate alternative minimum taxes, although Bond Counsel observes
that such interest is included in adjusted current earnings when calculating corporate alternative minimum taxable income. Bond Counsel is also of the opinion that interest on the Notes is exempt from personal income taxes imposed by the State of New York or any political subdivision thereof (including The
City of New York), Bond Counsel expresses no opinion regarding any other tax consequences related to the ownership or disposition of, or the amount,
accrual or receipt of interest on, the Notes. See “TAX MATTERS” herein.
The Notes will be designated “qualified tax-exempt obligations” pursuant to Section 265(b) (3) of the Code.
$4,000,000 CITY OF ELMIRA
CHEMUNG COUNTY, NEW YORK
$4,000,000 Revenue Anticipation Notes, 2016 (the “Notes”)
Dated: June 10, 2016 Due: May 26, 2017
The Notes are general obligations of the City of Elmira, Chemung County, New York (the “City”) all the taxable real
property within which is subject to the levy of ad valorem taxes to pay the Notes and interest thereon, subject to applicable
statutory limits imposed by Chapter 97 of the Laws of 2011 of the State of New York. See “TAX LEVY LIMITATION
LAW” and “NATURE OF OBLIGATION” herein.
The Notes will not be subject to redemption prior to maturity.
At the option of the successful bidder(s), the Notes will be issued registered in the name of the purchaser in the
denominations of $5,000 or multiples thereof.
Alternatively, at the option of the successful bidder(s), the Notes will be registered in the name of Cede & Co. as
nominee of The Depository Trust Company (DTC), New York, New York, which will act as the securities depository for the
Notes. In such case, Noteholders will not receive certificates representing their ownership interest in the notes purchased. In
such case, under this option, payment of the principal of and interest on the Notes to the Beneficial Owner of the Notes will
be made by DTC Participants and Indirect Participants in accordance with standing instructions and customary practices.
Payment will be the responsibility of the DTC, subject to any statutory and regulatory requirements as may be in effect from
time to time. See "BOOK-ENTRY-ONLY SYSTEM" herein.
The Notes are offered when, as and if issued and received by the Purchaser(s) and subject to the receipt of the approving
legal opinion as to the validity of the Notes of Orrick, Herrington & Sutcliffe LLP, Bond Counsel, of New York, New York.
It is anticipated that the Notes will be available for delivery through the facilities of DTC located in Jersey City, New Jersey
on or about June 10, 2016.
ELECTRONIC BIDS for the Notes may be submitted via iPreo’s Parity Electronic Bid Submission System (“Parity”)
on June 6, 2016 until 10:00 A.M., Eastern Time, pursuant to the Notice of Sale. No other form of electronic bidding
services will be accepted. No bid will be received after the time for receiving bids specified above. Bids may also be
submitted by facsimile at (315) 752-0057 and by telephone (315) 752-0051 Ext. 1. Once the bids are communicated
electronically via Parity or facsimile or telephone to the City, each bid will constitute an irrevocable offer to purchase
the Notes pursuant to the terms provided in the Notice of Sale for the Notes.
June 1, 2016
THE CITY DEEMS THIS OFFICIAL STATEMENT TO BE FINAL FOR PURPOSES OF SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION RULE 15C2-12 ("THE RULE"), EXCEPT FOR CERTAIN INFORMATION THAT HAS BEEN OMITTED HEREFROM IN ACCORDANCE WITH SAID
RULE AND THAT WILL BE SUPPLIED WHEN THIS OFFICIAL STATEMENT IS UPDATED FOLLOWING THE SALE OF THE OBLIGATIONS HEREIN DESCRIBED. THIS OFFICIAL STATEMENT WILL BE SO UPDATED UPON REQUEST OF THE SUCCESSFUL BIDDERS, AS MORE
FULLY DESCRIBED IN THE NOTICE OF SALE WITH RESPECT TO THE OBLIGATIONS HEREIN DESCRIBED. THE CITY WILL COVENANT
IN AN UNDERTAKING TO PROVIDE NOTICE OF CERTAIN MATERIAL EVENTS AS DEFINED IN THE RULE WITH RESPECT TO THE NOTES. SEE "APPENDIX C – MATERIAL EVENT NOTICES" HEREIN.
CITY OF ELMIRA CHEMUNG COUNTY, NEW YORK
OFFICIALS AND ADVISORS
DANIEL J. MANDELL, JR.
Mayor
THE COUNCIL
JAMES D. WATERS MICHAEL BOMBARGER
BRENT A. STERMER TIMOTHY M. BLANDFORD
JOSEPH H. DUFFY NANETTE M. MOSS
CITY OFFICIALS
KIMBERLY B. MIDDAUGH ESQ. BENJAMIN SMITH
City Manager City Chamberlain
ANGELA J. WILLIAMS JOHN J. RYAN, JR., ESQ.
City Clerk Counsel
FISCAL ADVISORS & MARKETING, INC.
City Municipal Advisor
ORRICK, HERRINGTON & SUTCLIFFE LLP
Bond Counsel
No person has been authorized by the City to give any information or to make any representations not contained in this Official Statement, and, if given or made, such
information or representations must not be relied upon as having been authorized. This Official Statement does not constitute an offer to sell or solicitation of an offer to buy any
of the Notes in any jurisdiction to any person to whom it is unlawful to make such offer or solicitation in such jurisdiction. The information, estimates and expressions of opinion
herein are subject to change without notice, and neither the delivery of this Official Statement nor any sale made hereunder shall, under any circumstances, create any implication
that there has been no change in the affairs of the City. TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
NATURE OF OBLIGATION ............................................................................... 1
THE NOTES .......................................................................................................... 2
Description of the Notes ..................................................................................... 2
No Optional Redemption .................................................................................... 2
Purpose of Issue .................................................................................................. 3
BOOK ENTRY ONLY SYSTEM ......................................................................... 3
There is no authority in current State law to establish a trust account or reserve fund for this liability. The City has reserved
$0 towards its OPEB liability. The City funds this liability on a pay-as-you-go basis.
The City’s unfunded actuarial accrued OPEB liability could have a material adverse impact upon the City’s finances and
could force the City to reduce services, raise taxes or both.
Actuarial valuation will be required every 2 years for OPEB plans with more than 200 members, every 3 years if there are
fewer than 200 members.
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In April 2015, the State Comptroller announced legislation to create an optional investment pool to help the State and local
governments fund retiree health insurance and other post-employment benefits. The proposed legislation would allow the
following:
Authorize the creation of irrevocable OPEB trusts, not part of the New York State Common Retirement Fund, so that
New York state and its local governments can, at their option, help fund their OPEB liabilities;
Establish an OPEB investment fund in the sole custody of the State Comptroller for the investment of OPEB assets of
the state and participating eligible local governments;
Designate the president of the Civil Service Commission as the trustee of the state’s OPEB trust and the governing
boards as trustee for local governments; and
Allow school districts to transfer certain excess reserve balances to an OPEB trust once it is established.
Under the State Comptroller’s proposal, there are no restrictions on the amount a government can deposit into the trust. The
City cannot predict whether the Comptroller’s proposed legislation will be enacted into law.
Financial Statements
The accounting firm, Ciaschi, Dietershagen, Little, Mickelson & Co., LLP, of 401 East State Street, Suite 500, Ithaca, NY
14850 audited the City’s financial statement for the period ending December 31, 2014 and may be found as “APPENDIX-E” of
this Official Statement. Copies of the report are available for public inspection at the City Clerk’s office. In addition, the State
Comptroller's Office, Department of Audit and Control, periodically performs a compliance review to ascertain whether the City
has complied with the requirements of various State and Federal statutes.
The City complies with the Uniform System of Accounts as prescribed for cities in New York State. This system differs from
generally accepted accounting principles as prescribed by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants' Industry Audit
Guide, “Audits of State and Local Governmental Units” and codified in Government Accounting, Auditing and Financial
Reporting (“GAAFR”), published by the Governmental Accounting Standards Board (“GASB”).
Beginning with the fiscal year December 31, 2003 the City is required to issue its financial statements in accordance with
GASB Statement No. 34. This statement includes reporting of all assets including infrastructure and depreciation in the
Government Wide Statement of Activities, as well as the Management’s Discussion and Analysis. The City is currently in
compliance with Statement No. 34.
Summary of Financial Results 2006-2015
Fiscal Year Ending December 31, 2006
The City ended 2006 with an operating surplus of $1,192,992 due to a reduction in health care costs, additional state aid and
loss reimbursements on the Armory annex building. The General Fund Revenues were $26,806,431 and General Fund
Expenditures were $25,613,440 which includes an operating transfer out of $1,786,249 to the Debt Service Fund. The General
Fund deficit was reduced from ($3,088,878) to ($1,895,887). Figures from the 2006 audited report show an increase in
comparison to the adopted budget of $174,104 from Real Property Taxes and Tax Items, $516,965 from Sale of property and
compensation for loss and $292,503 from State aid. A decrease of $259,723 was shown in comparison to the adopted budget from
the Departmental Income and a decrease of $99,618 from Fines and Forfeitures. Expenditure figures also deviated from the 2006
adopted budget including a decrease of $487,035 from Employee Benefits.
Fiscal Year Ending December 31, 2007
The City ended 2007 with an operating surplus of $2,374,169 due to additional State aid, sales tax revenue, no increases in
health care costs and a reduction in workmen’s compensation costs along with operational changes in the Police and Fire
Departments. The General Fund revenues were $27,549,595 and the General Fund expenditures were $25,175,427 which includes
an operating transfer out of $1,742,112 to the Debt Service Fund. The General Fund deficit of $1,895,887 has been eliminated and
General Fund equity was $478,282 at December 31, 2007.
Fiscal Year Ending December 31, 2008
The City ended 2008 with an operating surplus of $3,528,861 due to additional State Aid, sales tax revenue, a reduction in
health care costs by becoming self-insured and a shared service agreement on tax collections with Chemung County. The General
Fund revenues were $29,962,326 and the General Fund expenditures were $26,433,465 which includes an operating transfer out of
$1,812,164 to the Debt Service Fund. The General Fund equity was $4,007,143 at December 31, 2008.
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Fiscal Year Ending December 31, 2009
The City ended 2009 with an operating surplus of $426,901 in spite of reductions in sales tax revenue and increases in health
care and retirement costs. The General Fund revenues were $26,952,727 and the General Fund expenditures were $26,525,826
which includes an operating transfer out of $2,299,439 to the Debt Service Fund. The General Fund equity was $4,434,044 at
December 31, 2009.
Fiscal Year Ending December 31, 2010
The City ended 2010 with an operating surplus of $1,631,389 due to increases in sales tax revenue and stable health care
costs. The General Fund revenues were $28,930,260 and the General Fund expenditures were $27,298,871 which includes an
operating transfer out of $2,243,042 to the Debt Service Fund. The General Fund equity was $6,065,433 at December 31, 2010.
Fiscal Year Ending December 31, 2011
The City ended 2011 with an operating surplus of $552,950. The General Fund Revenues were $30,095,039 and the General
Fund expenditures were $29,542,089 which includes an operating transfer out of $2,496,155 to the Debt Service Fund. The City
expects to use $1,645,893 of its prior year’s designated General Fund equity to close the Parking Authority Fund deficit of
$1,420,432 and to settle a tax certiorari case for $225,460. The General Fund equity was $4,972,490 at December 31, 2011.
Fiscal Year Ending December 31, 2012
The City ended 2012 with an operating deficit of $895,109. The General Fund revenues were $29,245,110 and the General
Fund expenditures were $30,140,219 which includes an operating transfer out of $2,722,045 to the Debt Service Fund. The
General Fund equity was $4,077,381 at December 31, 2012 which represents 13.9% of revenues.
Fiscal Year Ending December 31, 2013
The City ended 2013 with an operating deficit of $840,368. The General Fund revenues were $28,994,064 and the General
Fund expenditures were $30,140,219 which includes an operating transfer out of $1,096,115 to the Debt Service Fund. The
General Fund equity was $3,237,012 at December 31, 2013 which represents 11.1% of revenues.
Fiscal Year Ending December 31, 2014
The City ended 2014 with an operating deficit of $1,034,580. The General Fund revenues were $32,159,895 and the General
Fund expenditures were $33,194,475 which includes an operating transfer out of $3,285,061 to the Debt Service Fund. The
General Fund equity was $2,202,432 at December 31, 2014 which represents 7% of revenues.
Fiscal Year Ending December 31, 2015 - Unaudited
The City ended 2015 with an operating deficit of $3,392,155. The General Fund revenues were $30,067,845 and the General
Fund expenditures were $33,460,000 which includes an operating transfer out of $3,137,190 to the Debt Service Fund. The
General Fund equity was ($1,189,723) at December 31, 2015.
Investment Policy
Pursuant to the statutes of the State of New York, the City is permitted to invest only in the following investments: (1) special
time deposits or certificates of deposits in a bank or trust company located and authorized to do business in the State of New York;
(2) obligations of the United States of America; (3) obligations guaranteed by agencies of the United States of America where the
payment of principal and interest is guaranteed by the United States of America; (4) obligations of the State of New York; (5) with
the approval of the New York State Comptroller, tax anticipation notes and revenue anticipation notes issued by any New York
municipality or district corporation, other than the City; (6) obligations of a New York public corporation which are made lawful
investments by the City pursuant to another provision of law; (7) certain certificates of participation issued on behalf of political
subdivisions of the State of New York; and, (8) in the case of City moneys held in certain reserve funds established pursuant to
law, obligations issued by the City. These statutes further require that all bank deposits, in excess of the amount insured under the
Federal Deposit Insurance Act, be secured by a pledge of eligible securities, an eligible surety bond or an eligible letter of credit,
as those terms are defined in the law. The City has adopted an investment policy consistent with the Act.
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New York State Comptroller Report of Examination State Comptroller's office, i.e., the Department of Audit and Control, periodically performs a compliance review to ascertain whether the City has complied with the requirements of various State and Federal statutes. These audits can be found by visiting the Audits of Local Governments section of the Office of the State Comptroller website. There are no recent State Comptrollers audits of the City nor are there any audits or reviews currently in progress. The State Comptroller’s Fiscal Stress Monitoring System The New York State Comptroller has reported that New York State’s school districts and municipalities are facing significant fiscal challenges. As a result, the Office of the State Comptroller has developed a Fiscal Stress Monitoring System (“FSMS”) to provide independent, objectively measured and quantifiable information to school district and municipal officials, taxpayers and policy makers regarding the various levels of fiscal stress under which the State’s school districts and municipalities are operating.
The fiscal stress scores are based on financial information submitted as part of each school district’s ST-3 report filed with the State Education Department annually, and each municipality’s annual report filed with the State Comptroller. Using financial indicators that include year-end fund balance, cash position and patterns of operating deficits, the system creates an overall fiscal stress score which classifies whether a school district or municipality is in “significant fiscal stress”, in “moderate fiscal stress,” as “susceptible to fiscal stress” or “no designation”. Entities that do not accumulate the number of points that would place them in a stress category will receive a financial score but will be classified in a category of “no designation.” This classification should not be interpreted to imply that the entity is completely free of fiscal stress conditions. Rather, the entity’s financial information, when objectively scored according to the FSMS criteria, did not generate sufficient points to place them in one of the three established stress categories.
According to the 2014 report of the State Comptroller the City did not file for a fiscal stress score. The City is currently working with NYS to file reports for 2014 and 2015. The 2013 report of the State Comptroller designates the City as “No Designation” (Fiscal Score: 33.8%).
For additional details regarding the Fiscal Stress Monitoring System visit the State Comptroller’s official website.
Note: Reference to websites implies no warranty of accuracy of information therein.
TAX INFORMATION Property Valuation and Tax Data The full valuation of real property has remained stable over the past six years.
Fiscal Year Assessed Valuation Equalization Rate Full Valuation
Arnot Ogden Medical Center Professional Offices $ 42,952,100
NYSEG Public Electric & Gas Utility 41,532,000
Chemung Canal Bank 6,592,900
F.M. Howell, Inc. Manufacturing / Distribution 6,084,300
Hilliard Manufacturing 5,913,800
McWane, Inc. Foundry / Manufacturing 4,584,500
Verizon Public Telephone Company 4,518,800
Mark Twain Properties Residential / Office / Retail- Rental 4,308,300
Pennsylvania Lines Ceiling Railroad 4,292,400
Plainview Associates Holiday Inn 3,571,400
Cole WG (Walgreen North) Drug Store 3,372,600
TH Ag & Nutrition (Walgreen South) Drug Store 3,214,300
Elmira Real Properties Residential / Office / Retail- Rental 3,144,600
The taxpayers listed above have a total assessed full valuation of $134,082,000 which represents 19.4% of the City's taxable
full valuation.
During 1995, the City implemented its first revaluation since 1960. The revaluation has resulted in a slight increase in
revenue the City receives from the property tax. In addition, the Council rejected adoption of the Homestead Act, which would
have instituted a two-tiered property tax system for residents and businesses.
Along with the property revaluation, the City is also examining the possibility of implementing a contribution system for
public services provided to not-for-profit organizations located within the City. Although these organizations provide “community
services,” they also use public services that are financed by the taxpayers. The City government, therefore, believes that not-for-
profit should contribute a responsible share of the tax burden. The City is researching the feasibility of voluntary and compulsory
programs.
Tax Levies and Collections
The City is on a calendar year ending December 31. The City tax rate is based on an amount per $1,000 assessed valuation.
City Real Property tax invoices are prepared based on an Annual Assessment Roll as of August 10 of the prior year. The City
Chamberlain receives substantially all tax payments semi-annually by May 15 and September 15. Late payments made after
December 15 of the tax year are purchased by the County, which then initiates collection and foreclosure proceedings. After the
County attains marketable title to such property, the County includes these properties in their annual auction. Delinquent taxes are
subject to a penalty of 5% after May 15 and 5% after September 15 with interest at 12% per annum additional after September 15.
The following table of tax levies and collections indicates a pattern of thorough collections. Furthermore, since 1995
Chemung County has assumed responsibility for unpaid City and School District real property taxes. This procedure has improved
the City’s collections.
Fiscal Year
Tax Rate Per
$1,000 Assessed
Value
Tax Levy
% Of Limit
Tax
Levy ($000) % Collected
2000 $13.22 50.5% $ 6,998 100.0%
2001 13.22 49.2 7,032 100.0
2002 13.62 53.2 7,341 100.0
2003 13.88 47.6 7,489 100.0
2004 14.64 52.7 7,916 100.0
2005 15.15 54.9 8,333 100.0
2006 15.74 57.3 8,619 100.0
2007 16.92 62.5 9,324 100.0
2008 17.52 65.9 9,698 100.0
2009 18.02 55.6 10,054 100.0
2010 18.34 54.7 10,236 100.0
2011 18.34 52.1 10,443 100.0
2012 18.34 52.7 10,396 100.0
2013 18.88 44.7 10,805 100.0
2014 20.01 50.1 11,440 100.0
2015 20.81 54.6 12,065 100.0
2016 21.95 60.1 12,550 47.0*
* As of May 26, 2016, 47% of the 2016 tax levy has been collected. Normal collections continue until December 31, 2015 for 2016 taxes after which Chemung County will reimburse the City for all uncollected taxes before December 31st (each) year under a 1995 foreclosure agreement.
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Constitutional Tax Margin
Computation of Constitutional Tax Margin for fiscal years ending December 31 for 2011 through 2015 and 2016 projected are
as follows:
Fiscal Years
Ending:
2011
2012
2013
2014
2015
2016
Projected
Five-year Average
Full Valuation $602,084,765 $615,573,276 $624,975,029 $632,206,004 $646,081,967 $655,894,392
Tax Limit - 2% of
Five-year Average 12,041,695 12,311,466 12,499,501 12,644,120 12,921,639 13,117,888
Add: Exclusions
From Tax Limit 4,164,391 3,902,635 5,222,679 5,111,547 4,525,535 4,662,425
Total Taxing
Power 16,206,086 16,214,101 17,722,180 17,755,667 17,447,174 17,780,303
Less Total Levy 10,442,544 10,396,290 10,805,342 11,440,252 12,060,868 12,550,996
Pension obligations represent the supplemental retirement payment for employees under General Municipal Law Section
207a; $315,687; the amortization of the annual retirement system obligation: $2,429,462 and are liquidated in the General
Fund. The amortization of the annual retirement system obligation is for ten years at 8%.
Details of Outstanding Indebtedness
The following table sets forth the indebtedness of the City evidenced by bonds and notes as of June 1, 2016:
Type of Indebtedness Maturity Amount
Bonds
General City 2016-2029 $ 24,653,594
Elmira Water Bonds 2016-2029 5,901,660
Elmira Urban Renewal Agency 2016-2016 105,000
Total Debt Outstanding $ 30,660,254
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Debt Statement Summary Statement of Indebtedness, Debt Limit and Net Debt-Contracting Margin as of June 1, 2016: Five-Year Average Full Valuation of Taxable Real Property ............................................................... $ 572,397,186 Debt Limit - 7% thereof ........................................................................................................................ 40,067,803 Inclusions: Bonds ............................................................ $ 30,660,254 Bond Anticipation Notes ............................... 0 Total Inclusions ............................... $ 30,660,254
Exclusions: Appropriations .............................................. $ 1,194,000 Water (1) ......................................................... 4,656,660 HUD 108 Loans (2) ......................................... 1,400,000 Statutory Installment Bond (EURA) (3) .......... 105,000 Total Exclusions .............................. $ 7,355,660 Total Net Indebtedness Subject to Debt Limit ......................................................................................... $ 23,304,594
Net Debt-Contracting Margin .................................................................................................................. 16,763,209
Percent of Debt Contracting Power Exhausted ........................................................................................ 58.16%
The issuance of the Notes will not increase the net indebtedness of the City. (1) Water Debt is excluded pursuant to Article VIII, Section 5B of the New York State Constitution. (2) HUD Section 108 Loan Programs are excludable under Section 136 of Local Finance Law. (3) Elmira Urban Renewal Agency Statutory Installment Bond. Bonded Debt Service A schedule of bonded debt service may be found in “APPENDIX – B” to this Official Statement. Capital Project Plans The City considers its capital needs on an annual basis and routinely issues obligations to fund its capital needs in the $1.5-$3.5 million range annually. The City anticipates issuing $2.9 serial bonds in July 2016 for capital improvements. Cash Flow Borrowings The City has found it necessary to borrow revenue anticipation notes in the past. The seven most recent borrowings of such notes are as follows:
Fiscal Year Type Amount Issue Date Due Date Coupon %
2009 RAN $ 1,250,000 2/18/09 2/18/10 3.33 2009 RAN 1,000,000 11/24/09 11/24/10 2.00 (1) 2010 RAN 1,000,000 11/24/10 11/23/11 2.25 2012 RAN 1,500,000 1/5/12 10/5/12 1.18 2013 RAN 2,500,000 1/4/13 9/4/13 0.87 2014 RAN 3,000,000 1/3/14 10/3/14 1.25 (2) 2014 RAN 3,000,000 10/03/14 5/28/15 1.25 (3)
2015 RAN 4,000,000 8/27/15 5/27/16 0.60
(1) Net interest rate of 1.990%. (2) Net interest rate of 1.169%
(3) Net interest rate of 0.8548%
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Estimated Overlapping Indebtedness In addition to the City, the following political subdivisions have the power to issue bonds and to levy taxes or cause taxes to be levied on taxable real property in the City. The estimated net outstanding indebtedness of such political subdivisions, as of the fiscal year ending December 31, 2014, is as follows:
Notes: (1) Outstanding bonds and bond anticipation notes. Not adjusted to include subsequent bond or note sales, if any. (2) Water and sewer debt and appropriations. (3) Estimated State building aid.
Note: The 2015 Comptroller’s Special Report is currently unavailable as of the date of this Official Statement.
Source: Comptroller’s Special Report on Municipal Affairs for Local Finance Years Ended in 2014. Debt Ratios The following table sets forth certain ratios related to the City's indebtedness as of June 1, 2016: Amount of Percentage of Indebtedness Per Capita (a) Full Valuation (b)
Net Direct Indebtedness (c) $ 23,304,594 $813.51 4.07% Net Direct Plus Net Overlapping Indebtedness (d) 35,000,462 1,221.78 6.11% (a) The City's 2014 estimated population is 28,647. (See "Population Trends" herein.) (b) The City's 5 year average full valuation of taxable real estate is $572,397,186. (c) See "Debt Statement Summary" herein. (d) The City's applicable share of net overlapping indebtedness is $11,695,868.
SPECIAL PROVISIONS AFFECTING REMEDIES UPON DEFAULT General Municipal Law Contract Creditors’ Provision. Each Note when duly issued and paid for will constitute a contract between the City and the holder thereof. Under current law, provision is made for contract creditors of the City to enforce payments upon such contracts, if necessary, through court action. Section 3-a of the General Municipal Law provides, subject to exceptions not pertinent, that the rate of interest to be paid by the City upon any judgment or accrued claim against it on an amount adjudged due to a creditor shall not exceed nine per centum per annum from the date due to the date of payment. This provision might be construed to have application to the holders of the Notes in the event of a default in the payment of the principal of and interest on the Notes. Execution/Attachment of Municipal Property. As a general rule, property and funds of a municipal corporation serving the public welfare and interest have not been judicially subjected to execution or attachment to satisfy a judgment, although judicial mandates have been issued to officials to appropriate and pay judgments out of certain funds or the proceeds of a tax levy. In accordance with the general rule with respect to municipalities, judgments against the City may not be enforced by levy and execution against property owned by the City.
Status of Gross Estimated Net City ApplicableMunicipality Debt as of Indebtedness
(1)Exclusions Indebtedness Share Indebtedness
County of:
Chemung 12/31/2014 51,434,073$ -$ (2)
51,434,073$ 16.15% 8,306,603$
School District:
Elmira 6/30/2014 102,705,000 99,315,735 (3)
3,389,265 100.00% 3,389,265
Total: 11,695,868$
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Authority to File For Municipal Bankruptcy. The Federal Bankruptcy Code allows public bodies, such as the City,
recourse to the protection of a Federal Court for the purpose of adjusting outstanding indebtedness. Section 85.80 of the Local
Finance Law contains specific authorization for any municipality in the State or its emergency control board to file a petition under
any provision of Federal bankruptcy law for the composition or adjustment of municipal indebtedness.
The State has consented that any municipality in the State may file a petition with the United States District Court or court of
bankruptcy under any provision of the laws of the United States, now or hereafter in effect, for the composition or adjustment of
municipal indebtedness. Subject to such State consent, under the United States Constitution, Congress has jurisdiction over such
matters and has enacted amendments to the existing federal bankruptcy statute, being Chapter 9 thereof, generally to the effect and
with the purpose of affording municipal corporations, under certain circumstances, with easier access to judicially approved
adjustment of debt including judicial control over identifiable and unidentifiable creditors.
No current state law purports to create any priority for holders of the Notes should the City be under the jurisdiction of any
court, pursuant to the laws of the United States, now or hereafter in effect, for the composition or adjustment of municipal
indebtedness.
The rights of the owners of Notes to receive interest and principal from the City could be adversely affected by the
restructuring of the City’s debt under Chapter 9 of the Federal Bankruptcy Code. No assurance can be given that any priority of
holders of debt obligations issued by the City (including the Notes) to payment from monies retained in any debt service fund or
from other cash resources would be recognized if a petition were filed by or on behalf of the City under the Federal Bankruptcy
Code or pursuant to other subsequently enacted laws relating to creditors’ rights; such monies might, under such circumstances, be
paid to satisfy the claims of all creditors generally.
Under the Federal Bankruptcy Code, a petition may be filed in the Federal Bankruptcy court by a municipality which is
insolvent or unable to meet its debts as they mature. Generally, the filing of such a petition operates as a stay of any proceeding to
enforce a claim against the municipality. The Federal Bankruptcy Code also requires that a plan be filed for the adjustment of the
municipality’s debt, which may modify or alter the rights of creditors and which could be secured. Any plan of adjustment
confirmed by the court must be approved by the requisite number of creditors. If confirmed by the bankruptcy court, the plan
would be binding upon all creditors affected by it.
State Debt Moratorium Law. There are separate State law provisions regarding debt service moratoriums enacted into law
in 1975.
At the Extraordinary Session of the State Legislature held in November, 1975, legislation was enacted which purported to
suspend the right to commerce or continue an action in any court to collect or enforce certain short-term obligations of The City of
New York. The effect of such act was to create a three-year moratorium on actions to enforce the payment of such obligations.
On November 19, 1976, the Court of Appeals, the State’s highest court, declared such act to be invalid on the ground that it
violates the provisions of the State Constitution requiring a pledge by such City of its faith and credit for the payment of
obligations.
As a result of the Court of Appeals decision in Flushing National Bank v. Municipal Assistance Corporation for the City of
New York, 40 N.Y.2d 731 (1976), the constitutionality of that portion of Title 6-A of Article 2 of the Local Finance Law enacted
at the 1975 Extraordinary Session of the State legislature authorizing any county, city, town or village with respect to which the
State has declared a financial emergency to petition the State Supreme Court to stay the enforcement against such municipality of
any claim for payment relating to any contract, debt or obligation of the municipality during the emergency period, is subject to
doubt. In any event, no such emergency has been declared with respect to the City.
Right of Municipality or State to Declare a Municipal Financial Emergency and Stay Claims Under State Debt Moratorium
Law. The State Legislature is authorized to declare by special act that a state of financial emergency exists in any county, city,
town or village. (The provision does not by its terms apply to school districts or fire districts.) In addition, the State Legislature
may authorize by special act establishment of an “emergency financial control board” for any county, city, town or village upon
determination that such a state of financial emergency exists. Thereafter, unless such special act provides otherwise, a voluntary
petition to stay claims may be filed by any such municipality (or by its emergency financial control board in the event said board
requests the municipality to petition and the municipality fails to do so within five days thereafter). A petition filed in supreme
court in county in which the municipality is located in accordance with the requirements of Title 6-A of the Local Finance Law
(“Title 6-A”) effectively prohibits the doing of any act for ninety days in the payment of claims, against the municipality including
payment of debt service on outstanding indebtedness.
This includes staying the commencement or continuation of any court proceedings seeking payment of debt service due, the
assessment, levy or collection of taxes by or for the municipality or the application of any funds, property, receivables or revenues
of the municipality to the payment of debt service. The stay can be vacated under certain circumstances with provisions for the
payment of amounts due or overdue upon a demand for payment in accordance with the statutory provisions set forth therein. The
filing of a petition may be accompanied with a proposed repayment plan which upon court order approving the plan, may extend
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any stay in the payment of claims against the municipality for such “additional period of time as is required to carry out fully all
the terms and provisions of the plan with respect to those creditors who accept the plan or any benefits thereunder.” Court
approval is conditioned, after a hearing, upon certain findings as provided in Title 6-A.
A proposed plan can be modified prior to court approval or disapproval. After approval, modification is not permissible
without court order after a hearing. If not approved, the proposed plan must be amended within ten days or else the stay is vacated
and claims including debt service due or overdue must be paid. It is at the discretion of the court to permit additional filings of
amended plans and continuation of any stay during such time. A stay may be vacated or modified by the court upon motion of any
creditor if the court finds after a hearing, that the municipality has failed to comply with a material provision of an accepted
repayment plan or that due to a “material change in circumstances” the repayment plan is no longer in compliance with statutory
requirements.
Once an approved repayment plan has been completed, the court, after a hearing upon motion of any creditor, or a motion of
the municipality or its emergency financial control board, will enter an order vacating any stay then in effect and enjoining of
creditors who accepted the plan or any benefits thereunder from commencing or continuing any court action, proceeding or other
act described in Title 6-A relating to any debt included in the plan.
Title 6-A requires notice to all creditors of each material step in the proceedings. Court determinations adverse to the
municipality or its financial emergency control board are appealable as of right to the appellate division in the judicial department
in which the court is located and thereafter, if necessary, to the Court of Appeals. Such appeals stay the judgment or appealed
from and all other actions, special proceedings or acts within the scope of Section 85.30 of Title 6-A pending the hearing and
determination of the appeals.
Whether Title 6-A is valid under the Constitutional provisions regarding the payment of debt service is not known. However,
based upon the decision in the Flushing National Bank case described above, its validity is subject to doubt.
While the State Legislature has from time to time adopted legislation in response to a municipal fiscal emergency and
established public benefit corporations with a broad range of financial control and oversight powers to oversee such municipalities,
generally such legislation has provided that the provisions of Title 6-A are not applicable during any period of time that such a
public benefit corporation has outstanding indebtedness issued on behalf of such municipality.
Fiscal Stress and State Emergency Financial Control Boards. Pursuant to Article IX Section 2(b)(2) of the State Constitution,
any local government in the State may request the intervention of the State in its “property, affairs and government” by a two-
thirds vote of the total membership of its legislative body or on request of its chief executive officer concurred in by a majority of
such membership. This has resulted in the adoption of special acts for the establishment of public benefit corporations with
varying degrees of authority to control the finances (including debt issuance) of the cities of Buffalo, Troy and Yonkers and the
County of Nassau. The specific authority, powers and composition of the financial control boards established by these acts varies
based upon circumstances and needs. Generally, the State legislature has granted such boards the power to approve or disapprove
budget and financial plans and to issue debt on behalf of the municipality, as well as to impose wage and/or hiring freezes and
approve collective bargaining agreements in certain cases. Implementation is left to the discretion of the board of the public
benefit corporation. Such a State financial control board was first established for New York City in 1975. In addition, on a
certificate of necessity of the governor reciting facts which in the judgment of governor constitute an emergency requiring
enactment of such laws, with the concurrences of two-thirds of the members elected in each house of the State legislature the State
is authorized to intervene in the “property, affairs and governments” of local government units. This occurred in the case of the
County of Erie in 2005. The authority of the State to intervene in the financial affairs of local government is further supported by
Article VIII, Section 12 of the Constitution which declares it to be the duty of the State legislature to restrict , subject to other
provisions of the Constitution, the power of taxation, assessment, borrowing money and contracting indebtedness and loaning the
credit of counties, cities, towns and villages so as to prevent abuses in taxation and assessment and in contracting indebtedness by
them.
In 2013, the State established a new state advisory board to assist counties, cities, towns and villages in financial distress. The
Financial Restructuring Board for Local Governments (the “FRB”), is authorized to conduct a comprehensive review of the
finances and operations of any such municipality deemed by the FRB to be fiscally eligible for its services upon request by
resolution of the municipal legislative body and concurrence of its chief executive. The FRB is authorized to make
recommendations for, but cannot compel improvement of fiscal stability, management and delivery of municipal services,
including shared services opportunities and is authorized to offer grants and/or loans of up to $5,000,000 through a Local
Government Performance and Efficiency Program to undertake certain recommendations. If a municipality agrees to undertake
the FRB recommendations, it will be automatically bound to fulfill the terms in order to receive the aid.
The FRB is also authorized to serve as an alternative arbitration panel for binding arbitration.
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Although from time to time, there have been proposals for the creation of a statewide financial control board with broad
authority over local governments in the State, the FRB does not have emergency financial control board powers to intervene such
as the public benefit corporations established by special acts as described above.
Several municipalities in the State are presently working with the FRB. The City has not requested FRB assistance nor does it
reasonably expect to do so in the foreseeable future. School districts and fire districts are not eligible for FRB assistance.
Constitutional Non-Appropriation Provision. There is in the Constitution of the State, Article VIII, Section 2, the
following provision relating to the annual appropriation of monies for the payment of due principal of and interest on indebtedness
of every county, city, town, village and school district in the State: “If at any time the respective appropriating authorities shall fail
to make such appropriations, a sufficient sum shall be set apart from the first revenues thereafter received and shall be applied to
such purposes. The fiscal officer of any county, city, town, village or school district may be required to set aside and apply such
revenues as aforesaid at the suit of any holder of obligations issued for any such indebtedness.” This constitutes a specific non-
exclusive constitutional remedy against a defaulting municipality or school district; however, it does not apply in a context in
which monies have been appropriated for debt service but the appropriating authorities decline to use such monies to pay debt
service. However, Article VIII, Section 2 of the Constitution of the State also provides that the fiscal officer of any county, city,
town, village or school district may be required to set apart and apply such revenues at the suit of any holder of any obligations of
indebtedness issued with the pledge of the faith of the credit of such political subdivision. See “General Municipal Law Contract
Creditors’ Provision” herein.
The Constitutional provision providing for first revenue set asides does not apply to tax anticipation notes, revenue
anticipation notes or bond anticipation notes.
Default Litigation. In prior years, certain events and legislation affecting a holder’s remedies upon default have resulted in
litigation. While courts of final jurisdiction have upheld and sustained the rights of bondholders, such courts might hold that future
events including financial crisises as they may occur in the State and in political subdivisions of the State require the exercise by
the State or its political subdivisions of emergency and police powers to assure the continuation of essential public services prior to
the payment of debt service. See “Nature of Obligation” and “State Debt Moratorium Law” herein.
No Past Due Debt. No principal of or interest on City indebtedness is past due. The City has never defaulted in the payment
of the principal of and interest on any indebtedness.
MARKET AND RISK FACTORS
There are various forms of risk associated with investing in the Notes. The following is a discussion of certain events that
could affect the risk of investing in the Notes. In addition to the events cited herein, there are other potential risk factors that an
investor must consider. In order to make an informed investment decision, an investor should be thoroughly familiar with the
entire Official Statement, including its appendices, as well as all areas of potential risk.
The financial condition of the City as well as the market for the Notes could be affected by a variety of factors, some of which
are beyond the City’s control. There can be no assurance that adverse events in the State and in other jurisdictions in the country,
including, for example, the seeking by a municipality or large taxable property owner of remedies pursuant to the Federal
Bankruptcy Code or otherwise, will not occur which might affect the market price of and the market for the Notes. If a significant
default or other financial crisis should occur in the affairs of the State or another jurisdiction, or any of their respective agencies or
political subdivisions thereby further impairing the acceptability of obligations issued by borrowers within the State, both the
ability of the City to arrange for additional borrowings, and the market for and market value of outstanding debt obligations,
including the Notes, could be adversely affected.
The City is dependent in part on financial assistance from the State. However, if the State should experience difficulty in
borrowing funds in anticipation of the receipt of State taxes and revenues in order to pay State aid to municipalities and school
districts in the State, including the City, in this year or future years, the City may be affected by a delay, until sufficient taxes have
been received by the State to make State aid payments to the City. In several recent years, the City has received delayed payments
of State aid which resulted from the State's delay in adopting its budget and appropriating State aid to municipalities and school
districts, and consequent delay in State borrowing to finance such appropriations. (See also “The City - State Aid”).
There are a number of general factors which could have a detrimental effect on the ability of the City to continue to generate
revenues, particularly property taxes. For instance, the termination of a major commercial enterprise or an unexpected increase in
tax certiorari proceedings could result in a significant reduction in the assessed valuation of taxable real property in the City.
Unforeseen developments could also result in substantial increases in City expenditures, thus placing strain on the City’s financial
condition. These factors may have an effect on the market price of the Notes.
If a holder elects to sell his investment prior to its scheduled maturity date, market access or price risk may be incurred. If and
when a holder of any of the Notes should elect to sell a Note prior to its maturity, there can be no assurance that a market shall
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have been established, maintained and be in existence for the purchase and sale of any of the Notes. Recent global financial crises
have included limited periods of significant disruption. In addition, the price and principal value of the Notes is dependent on the
prevailing level of interest rates; if interest rates rise, the price of a bond or note will decline, causing the bondholder or noteholder
to incur a potential capital loss if such bond or note is sold prior to its maturity.
Amendments to U.S. Internal Revenue Code could reduce or eliminate the favorable tax treatment granted to municipal debt,
including the Notes and other debt issued by the City. Any such future legislation would have an adverse effect on the market
value of the Notes (See “Tax Exemption” herein).
The enactment of the Tax Levy Limitation Law, which imposes a tax levy limitation upon municipalities, school districts and
fire districts and have restrictions in the State, including the City without providing an exclusion for debt service on obligations
issued by municipalities or fire districts, including the City, could have an impact upon the market price of the Notes. See “TAX
LEVY LIMITATION LAW” herein.
CONTINUING DISCLOSURE
In order to assist the purchasers in complying with Rule 15c2-12 promulgated by the Securities and Exchange Commission
under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (“Rule 15c2-12”), the City will enter into a Material Event Notices
Certificate, the form of which is attached hereto as “APPENDIX – C”.
Historical Continuing Disclosure Compliance
Except as noted below, the City is in compliance in all material respects within the last five years with all previous
undertakings made pursuant to the Rule 15c2-12.
The City did not file its audited financial report for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2010 within 60 days of the
dated date of the audit. The audit was dated May 10, 2011 but not filed until November 10, 2011. The Annual
Information was filed in a timely manner.
The City failed to file a material event notice relating to a rating upgrade to “A” from “A-” by Standard & Poor’s on
December 12, 2013.
The City, on occasion, has failed to provide material event notices relating to bond insurance rating changes by
Moody’s Investors Service and Standard & Poor’s with respect to the City’s 2006 serial bonds.
A failure to file notice was posted on September 17, 2014.
TAX MATTERS
In the opinion of Orrick, Herrington & Sutcliffe LLP (“Bond Counsel”), based upon an analysis of existing laws, regulations,
rulings, and court decisions, and assuming, among other matters, compliance with certain covenants, interest on the Notes is
excluded from gross income for federal income tax purposes under Section 103 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (the “Code”)
and is exempt from personal income taxes imposed by the State of New York (or any political subdivision thereof, including The
City of New York). Bond Counsel is of the further opinion that interest on the Notes is not a specific preference item for purposes
of the federal individual or corporate alternative minimum taxes, although Bond Counsel observes that such interest is included in
adjusted current earnings when calculating corporate alternative minimum taxable income. A complete copy of the proposed form
of opinion of Bond Counsel is set forth in “APPENDIX – F” hereto.
The Code imposes various restrictions, conditions and requirements relating to the exclusion from gross income for federal
income tax purposes of interest on obligations such as the Notes. The City has covenanted to comply with certain restrictions
designed to insure that interest on the Notes will not be included in federal gross income. Failure to comply with these covenants
may result in interest on the Notes being included in gross income for federal income tax purposes possibly from the date of
original issuance of the Notes. The opinion of Bond Counsel assumes compliance with these covenants. Bond Counsel has not
undertaken to determine (or to inform any person) whether any actions taken (or not taken) or events occurring (or not occurring)
after the date of issuance of the Notes may adversely affect the value of, or the tax status of interest on, the Notes. Further, no
assurance can be given that pending or future legislation or amendments to the Code, if enacted into law, or any proposed
legislation or amendments to the Code, will not adversely affect the value of, or the tax status of interest on, the Notes.
Certain requirements and procedures contained or referred to the in the Arbitrage Certificate, and other relevant documents
may be changed and certain actions (including, without limitation, economic defeasance of the Notes) may be taken or omitted
under the circumstances and subject to the terms and conditions set forth in such documents. Bond Counsel expresses no opinion
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as to any Notes or the interest thereon if any such change occurs or action is taken or omitted.
Although Bond Counsel is of the opinion that interest on the Notes is excluded from gross income for federal income tax
purposes and is exempt from personal income taxes imposed by the State of New York or any political subdivision thereof
(including The City of New York), the ownership or disposition of, or the amount, accrual or receipt of interest on, the Notes may
otherwise affect an Owner’s federal or state tax liability. The nature and extent of these other tax consequences will depend upon
the particular tax status of the Owner or the Owner’s other items of income or deduction. Bond Counsel expresses no opinion
regarding any such other tax consequences.
Current and future legislative proposals, if enacted into law, clarification of the Code or court decisions may cause interest on
the Notes to be subject, directly or indirectly, to federal income taxation or to be subject to or exempted from state income
taxation, or otherwise prevent Beneficial Owners from realizing the full current benefit of the tax status of such interest.
Legislative proposals have been made which would limit the exclusion from gross income of interest on obligations like the Notes
to some extent for taxpayers who are individuals and whose income is subject to higher marginal income tax rates. Other
proposals have been made that could significantly reduce the benefit of, or otherwise affect, the exclusion from gross income of
interest on obligations like the Notes. The introduction or enactment of any such legislative proposals, clarification of the Code or
court decisions may also affect the market price for, or marketability of, the Notes. Prospective purchasers of the Notes should
consult their own tax advisors regarding any pending or proposed federal or state tax legislation, regulations or litigation, as to
which Bond Counsel expresses no opinion.
LEGAL MATTERS
Legal matters incident to the authorization, issuance and sale of the Notes are subject to the approving legal opinion of Orrick,
Herrington & Sutcliffe LLP, Bond Counsel. Bond Counsel expects to deliver an opinion at the time of issuance of the Notes
substantially in the form set forth in “APPENDIX – F” hereto.
LITIGATION
For the period from January 1, 2002 to January 1, 2007, the City was a member of the Public Entity Trust of New York
(PETNY). PETNY became insolvent in 2008. The State Worker’s Compensation Board did a forensic review of PETNY’s
operation. Based upon that review, the Board notified the City that it owed PETNY approximately $600,000. The City’s position
is that it owed PETNY $112,000, of which the City has paid $66,739.43. Unless the Worker’s Compensation Board changes its
position, the City intends to litigate this matter.
There are several pending tax certiorari cases. If the cases were resolved completely in favor of the petitioners, the City’s
financial exposure is in the range of $175,000 to $225,000.
For general liability purposes, the City is self-insured for the first $500,000 of potential exposure in each case. Presently, the
City is a defendant in an action in which the plaintiff sustained substantial injuries as a result of a slip and fall. The City
vigorously defended the action on the grounds that the maintenance of the site where the accident occurred was not the City’s
obligation. The Supreme Court granted summary judgment dismissing the action against the City. Plaintiff appealed the dismissal
and the case is pending before the Appellate Division, Third Department. If the summary judgment in favor of the City is reversed
and if the City is found to be responsible, then the City could have financial exposure in the range of $250,000 to $300,000.
The City is subject to a number of lawsuits in the ordinary conduct of its affairs. The City Attorney does not believe,
however, that such suits, individually or in the aggregate are likely to have a material adverse effect on the financial condition of
the City.
RATING
The Notes are not rated.
S&P Global Ratings, a business unit of Standard & Poor’s Financial Services LLC (“S&P”) has assigned their underlying
rating of “A-” with a negative outlook to the City’s outstanding bonds. Moody's Investors Service (“Moody's”) has assigned their
underlying rating of “Ba1” with a negative outlook to the City’s outstanding bonds. Any desired explanation of the significance of
such rating should be obtained from Standard & Poor’s Credit Market Services, Public Finance Ratings, 55 Water Street, 38th
Floor, New York, New York 10041, Phone: (877) 772-5436, Moody's Investors Service, 7 World Trade Center, 250 Greenwich
Street, New York, New York 10007, Phone: (212) 553-1653
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Generally, rating agencies base their ratings on the information and materials furnished to it and on investigations, studies and
assumptions by the respective rating agency. There is no assurance that a particular rating will apply for any given period of time
or that it will not be lowered or withdrawn entirely if, in the judgment of the agency originally establishing the rating,
circumstances so warrant. Any downward revision or withdrawal of the rating of the outstanding bonds may have an adverse
effect on the market price of the outstanding bonds.
MUNICIPAL ADVISOR
Fiscal Advisors & Marketing, Inc. (the "Municipal Advisor"), is a Municipal Advisor, registered with the Securities and
Exchange Commission and the Municipal Securities Rulemaking Board. The Municipal Advisor serves as independent financial
advisor to the City on matters relating to debt management. The Municipal Advisor is a financial advisory and consulting
organization and is not engaged in the business of underwriting, marketing, or trading municipal securities or any other negotiated
instruments. The Municipal Advisor has provided advice as to the plan of financing and the structuring of the Notes and has
reviewed and commented on certain legal documents, including this Official Statement. The advice on the plan of financing and
the structuring of the Notes was based on materials provided by the City and other sources of information believed to be reliable.
The Municipal Advisor has not audited, authenticated, or otherwise verified the information provided by the City or the
information set forth in this Official Statement or any other information available to the City with respect to the appropriateness,
accuracy, or completeness of disclosure of such information and no guarantee, warranty, or other representation is made by the
Municipal Advisor respecting the accuracy and completeness of or any other matter related to such information and this Official
Statement.
MISCELLANEOUS
So far as any statements made in this Official Statement involve matters of opinion or estimates whether or not expressly
stated, they are set forth as such and not as representations of fact, and no representation is made that any of the statements will be
realized. Neither this Official Statement nor any statement that may have been made verbally or in writing is to be construed as a
contract with the holders of the Notes.
Statements in this official statement, and the documents included by specific reference, that are not historical facts are
forward-looking statements, which are based on the City management’s beliefs as well as assumptions made by, and information
currently available to, the City’s management and staff. Because the statements are based on expectations about future events and
economic performance and are not statements of fact, actual results may differ materially from those projected. Important factors
that could cause future results to differ include legislative and regulatory changes, changes in the economy, and other factors
discussed in this and other documents that the City’s files with the repositories. When used in City documents or oral presentation,
the words “anticipate”, “estimate”, “expect”, “objective”, “projection”, “forecast”, “goal”, or similar words are intended to identify
forward-looking statements.
Orrick, Herrington & Sutcliffe LLP, Bond Counsel to the County, expressed no opinions as to the accuracy or completeness of
information in any documents prepared by or on behalf of the County for use in connection with the offer and sale of the, including
but not limited to, the financial or statistical information in this Official Statement.
References herein to the Constitution of the State and various State and federal laws are only brief outlines of certain
provisions thereof and do not purport to summarize or describe all of such provisions.
Concurrently with the delivery of the Notes, the County will furnish a certificate to the effect that as of the date of the Official
Statement, the Official Statement did not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary
to make the statements herein, in the light of the circumstances under which they were made, not misleading, subject to a
limitation as to information in the Official Statement obtained from sources other than the County.
The Official Statement is submitted only in connection with the sale of the Notes by the County and may not be reproduced or
used in whole or in part for any other purpose.
Fiscal Advisors & Marketing, Inc. may place a copy of this Official Statement on its website at www.fiscaladvisors.com.
Unless this Official Statement specifically indicates otherwise, no statement on such website is included by specific reference or
constitutes a part of this Official Statement. Fiscal Advisors & Marketing, Inc. has prepared such website information for
convenience, but no decisions should be made in reliance upon that information. Typographical or other errors may have occurred
in converting original source documents to digital format, and neither the City nor Fiscal Advisors & Marketing, Inc. assumes any
liability or responsibility for errors or omissions on such website. Further, Fiscal Advisors & Marketing, Inc. and the City disclaim
any duty or obligation either to update or to maintain that information or any responsibility or liability for any damages caused by
viruses in the electronic files on the website. Fiscal Advisors & Marketing, Inc. and the City also assume no liability or
responsibility for any errors or omissions or for any updates to dated website information.
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The City will act as Paying Agent for the Notes.
The City’s contact information is as follows: Mr. Benjamin Smith, City Chamberlain, City Hall, 317 East Church Street,
Elmira, New York 14901, telephone (607) 737-5662, fax (607) 737-5824, email: [email protected].
CITY of ELMIRA
Dated: June 1, 2016 BENJAMIN SMITH /s/
City Chamberlain
APPENDIX - A
City of Elmira
Fiscal Year Ending December 31: 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014
ASSETS
Cash and Short-term Investments 6,666,283$ 2,920,178$ 1,966,737$ 1,024,789$ 1,441,833$
Operating Transfers In - 1,099,404 381,116 227,089 671,570
Operating Transfers Out (2,299,439) (2,212,515) (3,916,589) (2,949,136) (1,767,685)
Total Other Financing (2,299,439) (1,113,111) (1,889,581) (2,722,047) (1,096,115)
Excess of Revenues and Other
Sources Over (Under) Expenditures
and Other Uses 426,901 1,631,389 552,949 (895,110) (840,368)
FUND BALANCE
Fund Balance - Beginning of Year 4,007,143 4,434,044 6,065,433 4,972,490 4,077,380
Designated Fund Balance - Used - - (1,645,892) -
Fund Balance - End of Year 4,434,044$ 6,065,433$ 4,972,490$ 4,077,380$ 3,237,012$
Note: In 2011, the City used $1,645,893 of its prior year's designated General fund equity to close the Parking Authority Fund deficit of $1,420,432 and
to settle a tax certiorari case for $225,460.
Source: Audited Financial Reports of the City. This Appendix itself is not audited.
GENERAL FUND
Revenues, Expenditures and Changes in Fund Balance
APPENDIX - A2
City of Elmira
Fiscal Years Ending December 31: 2015
Adopted Final Adopted
Budget Budget Actual Budget
REVENUES
Real Property Taxes 11,789,001$ 11,789,001$ 12,283,812$ 12,300,903$
Real Property Tax Items 917,979 917,979 780,264 852,306
Required Supplementary InformationManagement’s Discussion and Analysis ........................................................................................................ 3-3i
Basic Financial Statements
Government-wide Financial StatementsStatement of Net Position ............................................................................................................................ 4-4aStatement of Activities ................................................................................................................................. 5-5a
Governmental Fund Financial StatementsBalance Sheet - Governmental Funds ........................................................................................................ 6-6aReconciliation of Governmental Funds Balance Sheet to the Statement of Net Position ......................... 7Statement of Revenues, Expenditures, and Changes in Fund Balances -
Governmental Funds ............................................................................................................................... 8-8aReconciliation of Governmental Funds Statement of Revenues, Expenditures,
and Changes in Fund Balances to the Statement of Activities ............................................................... 9Statement of Net Position - Proprietary Fund ............................................................................................. 10Statement of Revenues, Expenses, and Changes in Fund Net Position -
Proprietary Fund ....................................................................................................................................... 11Statement of Cash Flows - Proprietary Fund .............................................................................................. 12Statement of Fiduciary Net Assets - Fiduciary Fund .................................................................................. 13
Notes to Financial Statements ........................................................................................................................ 14-42
Required Supplementary InformationBudgetary Comparison Schedule - General Fund - Non-GAAP Budget Basis ............................................. 43Schedule of Funding Progress ........................................................................................................................ 44Notes to Required Supplementary Information .............................................................................................. 45
Reports Required Under Government Auditing StandardsIndependent Auditor’s Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting and Compliance and Other Matters Based on an Audit of Financial Statements Performed in Accordance with Government Auditing Standards ...................................................................................... 46-47
Reports Required Under the Single Audit Act (OMB Circular A-133)Independent Auditor's Report on Compliance for Each Major Program and on Internal Control Over Compliance Required by OMB Circular A-133 .......................................................... 48-49Schedule of Expenditures of Federal Awards ................................................................................................ 50Notes to Schedule of Expenditures of Federal Awards ................................................................................. 51-52Schedule of Findings and Questioned Costs ................................................................................................. 53
CORTLAND ITHACA WATKINS GLEN
John H. Dietershagen, C.P.A.Jerry E. Mickelson, C.P.A.Thomas K. Van Derzee, C.P.A.Debbie Conley Jordan, C.P.A.Patrick S. Jordan, C.P.A.Duane R. Shoen, C.P.A.Lesley L. Horner, C.P.A.D. Leslie Spurgin, C.P.A. Frederick J. Ciaschi, C.P.A.
Certified Public Accountants and Consultants
Ciaschi Dietershagen Little Mickelson& Company, LLP
39 Church StreetCortland, New York 13045
607-753-7439fax 607-753-7874
2 North Franklin Street, Suite 330Watkins Glen, New York 14891
607-535-4443fax 607-535-6220
401 East State Street ~ Suite 500Ithaca, New York 14850
607-272-4444fax 607-273-8372www.cdlm.com
INDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT
Mayor and Members of the City CouncilCity of ElmiraElmira, New York
Report on the Financial Statements
We have audited the accompanying financial statements of the governmental activities, the discretely presented component units, each major fund, and the aggregate remaining fund information of the City of Elmira (the City)as of and for the year ended December 31, 2014, and the related notes to the financial statements, which collectively comprise the City’s basic financial statements as listed in the table of contents.
Management’s Responsibility for the Financial Statements
Management is responsible for the preparation and fair presentation of these financial statements in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America; this includes the design, implementation, and maintenance of internal control relevant to the preparation and fair presentation of financial statements that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error.
Auditor’s Responsibility
Our responsibility is to express opinions on these financial statements based on our audit. We did not audit the financial statements of the Elmira Water Board, a discretely presented component unit, which represents 99%, 99%, and 98%, respectively, of the assets, net position, and revenues of the aggregately discretely presented component units. Those statements of the Elmira Water Board were audited by other auditors whose report, issued in accordance with auditing standards generally accepted in the United States of America, has been furnished to us and our opinion, insofar as it relates to the amounts included in the Elmira Water Board, is based on the report of the other auditors. We conducted our audit in accordance with auditing standards generally accepted in the United States of America and the standards applicable to financial audits contained in Government Auditing Standards, issued by the Comptroller General of the United States. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement.
An audit involves performing procedures to obtain audit evidence about the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. The procedures selected depend on the auditor’s judgment, including the assessment of the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to fraud or error. In making those risk assessments, the auditor considers internal control relevant to the entity’s preparation and fair presentation of the financial statements in order to design audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the entity’s internal control. Accordingly, we express no such opinion. An audit also includes evaluating the appropriateness of accounting policies used and the reasonableness of significant accounting estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements.
We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our audit opinions.
- 2 -
Opinions
In our opinion, based on our audit and the report of other auditors, the financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the respective financial position of the governmental activities, the aggregate discretely presented component units, each major fund, and the aggregate remaining fund information of the City, as of December 31, 2014, and the respective changes in financial position and, where applicable, cash flows thereof for the year then ended in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.
Other Matters
Required Supplementary Information
Accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America require that the Management’s Discussion and Analysis and budgetary comparison information on pages 3 through 3i and 43 through 45 be presented to supplement the basic financial statements. Such information, although not a part of the basic financial statements, is required by the Governmental Accounting Standards Board, who considers it to be an essential part of financial reporting for placing the basic financial statements in an appropriate operational, economic, or historical context.
We have applied certain limited procedures to the required supplementary information in accordance with auditing standards generally accepted in the United States of America, which consisted of inquiries of management about the methods of preparing the information and comparing the information for consistency with management’s responses to our inquiries, the basic financial statements, and other knowledge we obtained during our audit of the basic financial statements. We do not express an opinion or provide any assurance on the information because the limited procedures do not provide us with sufficient evidence to express an opinion or provide any assurance.
Other Information
Our audit was conducted for the purpose of forming opinions on the financial statements that collectively comprise the City’s financial statements as a whole. The accompanying Schedule of Expenditures of Federal Awards is presented for purposes of additional analysis as required by U.S. Office of Management and Budget Circular A-133, Audits of States, Local Governments, and Non-Profit Organizations, and is not a required part of the financial statements.
The Schedule of Expenditures of Federal Awards is the responsibility of management and was derived from and relates directly to the underlying accounting and other records used to prepare the financial statements. Suchinformation has been subjected to the auditing procedures applied in the audit of the financial statements and certain additional procedures, including comparing and reconciling such information directly to the underlying accounting and other records used to prepare the financial statements or to the financial statements themselves, and other additional procedures in accordance with auditing standards generally accepted in the United States of America. In our opinion, the Schedule of Expenditures of Federal Awards is fairly stated in all material respects in relation to the financial statements as a whole.
Other Reporting Required by Government Auditing Standards
In accordance with Government Auditing Standards, we have also issued our report dated May 6, 2015, on our consideration of the City of Elmira’s internal control over financial reporting and on our tests of its compliance with certain provisions of laws, regulations, contracts, and grant agreements and other matters. The purpose of that report is to describe the scope of our testing of internal control over financial reporting and compliance and the results of that testing, and not to provide an opinion on internal control over financial reporting or on compliance. That report is an integral part of an audit performed in accordance with Government Auditing Standards in considering City of Elmira’s internal control over financial reporting and compliance.
May 6, 2015Ithaca, New York
CITY OF ELMIRAMANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSISFOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2014
- 3 -
Our discussion and analysis of the City of Elmira’s (the City) financial performance provides an overview of the City’s financial activities for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2014. Please read it in conjunction with the City’s financial statements, which begin on page 4.
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
In 2014, the General Fund recorded increases in nonspendable and assigned fund balances of $135,324 and $1,087,542, respectively, and a decrease in unassigned fund balance of $(2,257,446). The General Fund had a total fund balance at the end of the year of $2,202,432.
The City invested $4,241,769 in capital assets ($3,524,144 in its transportation infrastructure and construction in progress) resulting in an increase in capital assets of $789,020, net of depreciation of $3,443,281.
The City’s indebtedness increased by $1,658,561 during the current fiscal year due to the issuance of Public Improvement and Pension obligation debt which was offset by debt repayments and defeasance.
The liabilities of the City exceeded its assets at the close of the most recent fiscal year by $(7,433,305) (net deficit), primarily due to other postemployment benefits liability.
During the year, the City had expenses that were $3,606,371 more than the $36,017,164 generated in tax and other revenues for governmental programs primarily due to other postemployment benefits liability expense of $2,242,846, during 2014.
USING THIS ANNUAL REPORT
This annual report consists of a series of basic financial statements. The Statement of Net Position and the Statement of Activities (on pages 4 through 5a) provide information about the City as a whole and present a longer-term view of the City’s finances. Governmental Fund financial statements start on page 6. For Governmental Activities, these statements tell how these services were financed in the short term, as well as what remains for future spending. Governmental Fund financial statements also report the City’s operations in greater detail than the Government-wide financial statements by providing information about the City’s most significant funds. The remaining statements provide financial information about activities for which the City acts solely as a trustee or agent for the benefit of those outside the government. Following these statements are notes that provide additional information that is essential to a full understanding of the data provided in the financial statements.
In addition to the basic financial statements, the annual report contains other information in the form of a budgetary comparison schedule for the General Fund and combining statements for those funds that are not considered Major Funds and, therefore, not presented individually in the basic financial statements.
Reporting the City as a Whole
Our analysis of the City as a whole begins on page 4, with the Government-wide financial statements. The Statement of Net Position and the Statement of Activities report information about the City as a whole and about its activities in a way that helps answer the question of whether the City, as a whole, is better off or worse off as a result of the year’s activities. These statements include all assets and liabilities using the accrual basis of accounting, which is similar to the accounting used by most private-sector companies. All of the current year’s revenues and expenses are taken into account regardless of when the cash is received or paid.
CITY OF ELMIRAMANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
(CONTINUED)FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2014
- 3a -
These two statements report the City’s net position and changes in it. One can think of the City’s net position, the difference between assets and liabilities, as one way to measure the City’s financial health, or financial position. Over time, increases or decreases in the City’s net position are one indicator of whether its financial health is improving or deteriorating. One will need to consider other nonfinancial factors, however, such as changes in the City’s property tax base and the condition of the City’s roads, to assess the overall health of the City.
In the Statement of Net Position and the Statement of Activities, all of the City’s activities, which are governmental in nature, are reported in one column, including public safety, transportation, economic assistance and opportunity, culture and recreation, home and community services, and general administration. Property and sales taxes, and state and federal grants finance most of these activities The City also includes the following legally separate entities in its report as discretely presented component units:
The Community Development Department (Elmira Urban Renewal Agency) was established to carry out municipal urban renewal programs generally funded by federal grants. Separate audited financial statements are issued for Elmira Urban Renewal Agency, which can be obtained by contacting the City Chamberlain's office at 317 East Church Street, Elmira NY 14901.
The Elmira Water Board is a local water company which provides water to various communities in the County of Chemung. Separate audited financial statements are issued for the Elmira Water Board, which can be obtained by writing to The Elmira Water Board, General Manager, 261 W. Water Street, Elmira, New York 14901.
Reporting the City’s Most Significant Funds
Governmental Fund Financial Statements
Analysis of the City’s Major Funds begins on page 6. The Governmental Fund financial statements provide detailed information about the most significant funds - not the City as a whole. Some funds are required to be established by State law. However, management establishes many other funds to help it control and manage money for particular purposes or to show it is meeting legal responsibilities for using certain taxes and grants. The City’s two kinds of funds - Governmental and Proprietary - use different accounting approaches.
Governmental Funds: All of the City’s services are reported in the Governmental Funds, which focus on how money flows into and out of those funds and the balances left at year end that are available for spending. These funds are reported using an accounting method called modified accrual accounting, which measures cash and all other financial assets that can be readily converted to cash. The Governmental Fund financial statements provide a detailed short-term view of the City’s general governmental operations and the basic services it provides. Governmental Fund information helps determine whether there are more or fewer financial resources that can be spent in the near future to finance the City’s programs. The relationship (or differences) between Governmental Activities (reported in the Government-wide financial statements) and Governmental Funds is explained in a reconciliation following the Governmental Fund financial statements.
Proprietary Funds: When the City charges customers for the services it provides - whether to outside customers or to other units of the City - these services are generally reported in Proprietary Funds. Proprietary Funds are reported in the same way that all activities are reported in the Statement of Net Position and the Statement of Activities.
The City as Trustee: The City is the trustee, or fiduciary, for other assets that are held on behalf of others. All of the City’s fiduciary activities are reported in a separate Statement of Fiduciary Net Assets on page 13. We exclude these activities from the City’s other financial statements because the City cannot use these assets to finance its operations. The City is responsible for ensuring that the assets reported in this fund are used for their intended purpose.
CITY OF ELMIRAMANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
(CONTINUED)FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2014
- 3b -
THE CITY AS A WHOLE
The City’s combined net position for fiscal year ended December 31, 2014 decreased from $(3,826,934) to$(7,433,305), with a deficit in unrestricted net position of $(19,171,866). The deficit unrestricted net position is primarily attributable to the GASB Number 45 other postemployment benefits liability recognition of $16,668,501. Of the City’s net position, $10,640,819 reflects its investment in capital assets (e.g. land, buildings, infrastructure, machinery and equipment) less any related debt used to acquire those assets that is still outstanding. The City uses these capital assets to provide services to citizens; consequently, these assets are not available for future spending. Although the City’s investment in its capital assets is reported net of related debt, it should be noted that the resources needed to repay this debt must be provided by other sources, as the capital assets themselves cannot be used to liquidate these liabilities.
An additional portion of the City’s net position, $1,097,742, represents resources that are subject to external restrictions on how they may be used and is reported as restricted net position.
Our analysis below focuses on net position (Figure 1).
Figure 1Net Position
The total net position of the City’s Governmental Activities decreased by $(3,606,371) primarily due to other postemployment benefit expense of $2,242,846 and expenses and other uses exceeding revenue and other sources by $1,034,580 in the General Fund. Current and noncurrent assets remained stable. Capital assets, net of accumulated depreciation, increased $789,020 as investment in capital assets exceeded depreciation during the year. The increase in deferred outflow of resources is the result of deferred charges on defeased debt resulting from advance refunding bonds issued during the year. The increase in current liabilities was the result of increases inaccounts payable of $810,000, short-term debt of $1.5 million and accrued liabilities of $226,000 offset by a decrease in unearned revenue of $650,000. The increase in other liabilities was caused by increases in noncurrentbonds payable of $116,000, compensated absences of $181,000, other postemployment benefits expense of $2,242,846 and other pension debt of $167,000. Net investment in capital assets increased because capital outlay exceeded depreciation by $789,000 during the year while debt related to purchase of capital assets and unspent bond proceeds decreased $1,287,064 compared to the prior year.
Deferred charges on defeased debt -0- 189,084 189,084
Total Deferred Outflow of Resources -0- 189,084 189,084
Current liabilities 13,473,880 15,340,310 1,866,430Other liabilities 43,470,883 46,177,968 2,707,085
Total Liabilities 56,944,763 61,518,278 4,573,515
Net investment in capital assets 8,564,755 10,640,819 2,076,064Restricted 740,595 1,097,742 357,147Unrestricted (deficit) (13,132,284) (19,171,866) (6,039,582)
Total Net Position (Deficit) $ (3,826,934) $ (7,433,305) $ (3,606,371)
CITY OF ELMIRAMANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
(CONTINUED)FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2014
- 3c -
The City’s total revenues increased 1.1% or $384,831. Our analysis in Figure 2 separately considers the operations of Governmental Activities.
Figure 2Changes in Net Position
Governmental Activities 2014Increase (Decrease)
over 20132013 2014
REVENUESProgram revenues: Charges for services $ 4,881,116 $ 5,365,661 $ 484,545 Operating grants 2,291,460 2,354,495 63,035 Capital grants 3,978,374 2,958,481 (1,019,893)General revenues: Property taxes and tax items 11,473,043 12,113,062 640,019 Nonproperty taxes 7,473,333 7,810,743 337,410 State sources 4,727,823 4,701,484 (26,339) Other 807,184 713,238 (93,946)
Total Revenues $ 35,632,333 $ 36,017,164 $ 384,831
PROGRAM EXPENSES General government 4,336,009 3,918,923 (417,086) Public safety 22,921,206 22,524,243 (396,963) Transportation 5,498,281 6,372,356 874,075 Economic assistance and opportunity 310,422 138,306 (172,116) Culture and recreation 1,793,774 1,894,276 100,502 Home and community services 3,694,056 3,671,545 (22,511) Interest on long-term debt 1,046,348 1,103,886 57,538
Total Expenses $ 39,600,096 $ 39,623,535 $ 23,439
(DECREASE) IN NET POSITION $ (3,967,763) $ (3,606,371) $ 361,392
Charges for services increased due to increases in fines and forfeited bail, permits, other general services, refuse and charges and other public safety income. Capital grants revenue decreased as the result of less federaltransportation capital project funding compared to the prior year. An increase in the real property tax levy of approximately $500,000 and an $114,500 increase in interest and penalties are the causes of the increase in property tax and tax items revenue. An increase in sales tax revenue distributed to the City from the County of approximately $341,460 is the primary reason for the increase in non-property taxes. Other revenue consists of interest earnings, sale of property, insurance proceeds and other miscellaneous income. The decrease in other revenue is primarily due to decreases in interest earnings and sales of property offset by increases in proceeds from asset seizures.
Overall, program expenses were $23,439, or 0.1%, greater in 2014 than in 2013. General government support expenses decreased $(417,086) primarily due to a decrease in noncapitalizable general government support capital projects compared to last year. Public safety expenses decreased $(396,963) primarily as the result of decreases in police personnel services and employee benefits resulting from retirements. Compared to 2013, transportation and culture and recreation expenses increased by $874,075 and $100,502, respectively, primarily as a result ofincreases in employee benefits due to increases in health costs and other postemployment benefit liability expense recognition. Economic assistance and opportunity expenses were down compared to the prior year because the Southside High School Brownfield Project was completed last year.
CITY OF ELMIRAMANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
(CONTINUED)FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2014
- 3d -
Figures 3 and 4 show revenue by source for 2014 and 2013.
Figure 3Revenue by Source
2014
Charges for services14.90% State sources
13.05%
Operating grants6.54%
Capital grants8.21%
Other1.98%
Property taxes33.63%
Non-property taxes
21.69%
Figure 4Revenue by Source
2013
Charges for services13.70%
State sources13.27%
Operating grants6.43%
Capital grants11.17%
Other2.27%
Property taxes32.19%
Non-property taxes
20.97%
CITY OF ELMIRAMANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
(CONTINUED)FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2014
- 3e -
The cost of all Governmental Activities this year was $39,623,535. However, as shown in the Statement of Activities, the amount that our taxpayers ultimately financed for these activities through City property and payments in lieu of taxes or through sales tax, state aid and other non-property tax related revenue was $28,944,898, because some of the cost was paid by those who directly benefited from the programs $(5,365,661), or by other government and organizations that subsidized certain programs with grants and contributions $(5,312,976). Overall, the City’s governmental program revenues, including fees for services and grants were $10,678,637. The City paid for the remaining “public benefit” portion of Governmental Activities with state aid of $4,701,484, sales tax revenue of $7,248,818, $12,113,062 in property taxes, and $1,275,163 in other revenue, such as interest and general entitlements. The total cost less revenues generated by activities, or the net cost, for each of the City’s programs is presented below. The net cost shows the financial burden that was placed on the City’s taxpayers by each of these functions.
CITY OF ELMIRAMANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
(CONTINUED)FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2014
- 3f -
THE CITY’S FUNDS
As the City completed the year, its Governmental Funds, as presented in the balance sheets on pages 6 and 6a, reported a combined fund balance of $6,170,594, which is ($960,136) less than last year’s combined fund balance of $7,130,730.
The decrease in the General Fund is the result of revenues being more than actual expenditures in the amount of $1,550,481, offset by transfers in from the Capital Fund of $700,000 and transfers out of ($3,285,061) for debt repayment. The original 2014 budget had provided for an excess of expenditures of $251,965 to be funded by fund balance. Increases in employee benefit expenses resulting from increased health insurance expenses was the primary cause of this variance. The Special Grant Funds increased primarily due to the receipt of a large loan repayment. Capital projects are largely funded through aid and issuance of debt. The decrease in the Capital Projects Fund balance is the result of capital outlay exceeding aid and proceeds of debtduring the year, and a transfer of funds from closed projects to the General Fund. The Miscellaneous Special Revenue Fund increased as the result of receipt of the City’s share of proceeds from law enforcement seizure of assets from a large drug raid.
Figure 7 shows the changes in fund balances for the year for the City's Governmental Funds.
Figure 7Governmental Funds
Fund Balances at Year Ending
2013 2014
2014Increase (Decrease)
over 2013
Major Funds: General Fund $ 3,237,012 $ 2,202,432 $ (1,034,580) Special Grant Fund 382,208 623,818 241,610 Permanent Fund 2,422,871 2,403,741 (19,130) Debt Service Fund 35,572 34,495 (1,077) Capital Projects Fund 1,156,529 895,995 (260,534)Non-Major Governmental Funds: Miscellaneous Special Revenue Fund (103,462) 10,113 113,575
Totals $ 7,130,730 $ 6,170,594 $ (960,136)
General Fund Budgetary Highlights
Over the course of the year, the City Council, as well as the management of the City, revised the City budget several times. These budget amendments consisted of budget transfers between functions, which did not increase the overall budget.
Real property tax revenue was more than budgeted because an amended intermunicipal agreement with Chemung County changed the date by which the County pays the City for unpaid taxes, which resulted in accelerated revenue recognition for 2014. Real property tax items was $(486,463) less than budgeted because there was no sale of real property during the year and federal sources were $(444,043) less than budgeted because federal aid for public safety was less than anticipated. The public safety overexpenditure of $(328,507) was primarily due to overtime for police and fire protection personnel. There was a net over-expenditure of the primary operating expenditures of $(1,164,056), which was primarily due to increases in employee benefit expenses resulting from increased health insurance expenses.
CITY OF ELMIRAMANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
(CONTINUED)FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2014
- 3g -
CAPITAL ASSET AND DEBT ADMINISTRATION
Capital Assets
At the end of December 31, 2014, the City had $35,591,079, net of accumulated depreciation, invested in a broad range of capital assets, including buildings, machinery and equipment. The amounts presented in Figure 8represent a net increase (including additions and depreciation) of $789,020 over last year. The City invested $4.2million in its infrastructure and other assets during 2014.
Figure 8Capital Assets, Net of Accumulated Depreciation
Governmental Activities2014
Increase (Decrease) over 20132013 2014
Land and construction in progress $ 734,637 $ 1,522,416 $ 787,779Buildings 3,982,907 3,687,919 (294,988)Improvements 176,352 387,297 210,945Equipment 3,177,042 3,051,200 (125,842)Infrastructure 26,731,121 26,942,247 211,126
Totals $ 34,802,059 $ 35,591,079 $ 789,020
Debt Administration
The City’s short and long-term debt and pension obligations increased by $1,658,561 and brought total debt and obligations to $31,681,772 as of December 31, 2014, as shown in Figure 9. During the year, the City issued new RANs and serial bonds in the amount of $3,000,000 and $2,543,000, respectively, while continuing to pay down existing serial bonds. In addition, advance refunding bonds were issued during the year to defease all or part of three serial bond issues. The City also elected to amortize the allowable portion of the annual retirement system obligation of $497,403 over a ten year period.
Figure 9Major Outstanding Debt at Year Ending December 31
In addition to the indebtedness above, the City has a $3,888,185 liability for compensated absences consisting of sick and vacation leave and compensatory time due employees and a $16,668,501 other post employment benefit liability. More detailed information about the City’s liabilities is presented in Notes 3.E.2 through 3.E.4 to the financial statements.
Governmental Activities2014
Increase over 20132013 2014
Serial bonds $ 25,893,833 $ 25,946,255 $ 52,422BANs and RANs 1,500,000 3,000,000 1,500,000Pension obligations 2,629,378 2,735,517 106,139
Totals $ 30,023,211 $ 31,681,772 $ 1,658,561
CITY OF ELMIRAMANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
(CONTINUED)FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2014
- 3h -
FUTURE FACTORS
Redevelopment of the former Rosenbaum, Harolds & Marvins Buildings in Downtown Elmira
These three-connecting properties, located on West Water Street, have been vacant for nearly 20 years. The City received a $2.3 million Restore NY grant which was awarded in fall 2008, to rehabilitate these properties; despite challenges to complete this development with previous developers deciding not to move forward due to the national economic downturn and difficulties with financing. In July 2014 an emergency situation arose concerning 106-112 W. Water Street (former Rosenbaums) and 114 W. Water Street (former Marvin’s building) with the collapse of their roof structures and front facades. The adjacent Harold’s building isalso in danger of collapse. The buildings were condemned by the City’s Fire Marshal and the City of Elmira had the buildings demolished. The City, Chemung County and Southern Tier Economic Growth (STEG) in cooperation with Empire State Development continue to work closely to develop a redevelopment plan for the properties. Restore NY grant funds remain available for this project. The City also has plans to revitalize the area behind the buildings known as Clemens Square to allow for additional parking and landscaping, utilizing an Appalachian Regional Commission grant.
New York Main Street Redevelopment Projects
In addition to the above projects, Elmira Downtown Development, Inc., the City’s Business Improvement District (BID) managing partner has received and administered over $1 million through the New York Main Street Program. This program provides matching funds for façade improvements and interior renovations. These funds are targeted to three streets within the downtown area, with the majority of the committed work being concentrated on West Water Street. To date, 15 properties have received façade and interior renovations through this program, including New York Sports and Fitness, Roundin’ Third, Riverside Suites, the former Werdenbergs, and the Clemens Center to name a few. New York Main Street funds have resulted in a total investment of public and private funds of $3.3 million. Elmira Downtown Development has also undertaken a significant streetscape enhancement program using New York Main Street funds which has resulted in the addition of trees, benches, new historic lighting for the City’s Mark Twain Riverfront Park and other pedestrian amenities downtown.
In December 2014, Elmira Downtown Development was awarded a $200,000 New York Main Street grant for a South Main Street mixed use project that included building and facade renovations as well as streetscape enhancements. Design work on two key properties has commenced for the project with construction anticipated for the 2015 construction season. Elmira Downtown Development is also making the $47,000 remaining of the grant available to property owners within the South Main Street target area for additional redevelopment.
Elmira Downtown Development, Inc. also focuses on special events and promotion of the existing businesses within the Business Improvement District, and will continue as a program partner to be heavily involved in the streetscape aspect of the program.
CITY OF ELMIRAMANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
(CONTINUED)FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2014
- 3i -
Hudson Street Redevelopment - Update
The City and STEG have been successful in marketing the Hudson Street site for development. In February 2010, Aldi’s purchased 2.007 acres to build an approximate 15,000 square foot retail store on the site which opened in June 2010. The Elmira Urban Renewal Agency received $377,000 from the sale of the site. The Elmira Urban Renewal Agency and 3107 Group, LLC closed on the sale of the remaining 1.298 acres on July 31, 2012 and a Family Dollar store has since been constructed on the site. The net proceeds from the sale were $170,085 and these funds used to reduce the $500,000 Elmira Urban Renewal Agency bond anticipation note.In 2008, the City entered into a Development and Option Agreement with Ellicott Development for the adjacent former Hygeia Refrigeration site to construct a NYS Division of Parole building and a proposed 15,000 square foot office building. The NYS Division of Parole building has been completed.
Former Post Office and Courthouse Redevelopment
The City, STEG, and Realty USA are marketing the city-owned former Post Office and Courthouse located on the corner of Church Street and Clemens Center Parkway. The City of Elmira was awarded a $1.25 million Restore NY grant from Empire State Development to replace the existing roof, upgrade the heating and electrical systems and make other improvements to promote future development. Construction on the project began fall 2010 and was completed in July 2011.
Church Street Gateway Project
The City sold six parcels of land in January 2015 to locally owned Edger Development which, together with adjoining parcels, will be developed in to an eight acre site containing five commercial buildings, a fast food restaurant and a convenience store with gas pumps. Future plans include the construction of a nationally franchised hotel. The property is located on East Church Street immediately adjacent to the I-86 entrance to the City. Construction on the project is expected to start in late 2015 or 2016.
I-86 Corridor Project
The City of Elmira is a participant in the I-86 Corridor Project which is aimed at creating a cohesive economic development blueprint that results in the I-86 Corridor between I-99 and Elmira’s Exit 56 becoming the nexus of growth for business expansion and new business development in the Southern Tier. The City is joined with Chemung County, Town of Big Flats, Town and Village of Horseheads, City of Corning, and Corning Enterprises as well as business, educational, and economic development stakeholders.
CONTACTING THE CITY’S FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT
This financial report is designed to provide a general overview of the City of Elmira’s finances and to show the City’s accountability for the money it receives. If you have questions about this report, separate reports of theCity’s component units, or need any additional financial information, contact the City Chamberlain’s office, at 317 East Church Street, Elmira, NY 14901.
Cash and cash equivalents, restricted 709,672 1,006,146
Taxes receivable, net
Due from state and federal governments 3,926,393
Due from other governments 2,733,112
Other receivables, net 866,834 1,000 783,487
Loans and mortgages receivable, current portion 5,206,243
Prepaid expenses 769,794 279,766
Inventory, net 243,760
Total Current Assets 15,901,069 4,502 2,760,457
Noncurrent Assets:
Restricted cash and cash equivalents 492,716
Investments, restricted 2,403,741
Capital assets, non-depreciable 1,522,416 532,687
Other capital assets, net of
accumulated depreciation 34,068,663 34,184,944
Total Noncurrent Assets 37,994,820 492,716 34,717,631
Total Assets 53,895,889 497,218 37,478,088
DEFERRED OUTFLOWS OF RESOURCES
Deferred charges on defeased debt 189,084 14,159
Total Deferred Outflows of Resources 189,084 -0- 14,159
LIABILITIES
Current Liabilities:
Accounts payable 1,580,800 83,070
Accrued liabilities and customer deposits 579,979 75,786
Unearned revenue 6,802,742 4,951
Due to other governments 46,509 81,774
Revenue Anticipation Notes payable 3,000,000
Interest payable 269,790 2,188 37,560
Current portion of long-term liabilities:
Pension obligations 402,951
Bonds payable 2,657,539 105,000 424,034
Compensated absences 252,503
Total Current Liabilities 15,340,310 188,962 877,904
See Independent Auditor's Report and Notes to Financial Statements
- 4 -
CITY OF ELMIRA
STATEMENT OF NET POSITION
DECEMBER 31, 2014
Component Units
Urban Elmira
Governmental Renewal Water
Activities Agency Board
Noncurrent Portion of Long-term Liabilities:
Other postemployment benefits liability $ 16,668,501 $ $ 92,005
Bonds payable 23,288,716 105,000 6,067,795
Pension obligations 2,332,566
Compensated absences 3,888,185 403,991
Total Noncurrent Liabilities 46,177,968 105,000 6,563,791
Total Liabilities 61,518,278 293,962 7,441,695
NET POSITION
Net investment in capital assets 10,640,819 28,225,802
Restricted 1,097,742 668,255
Unrestricted (19,171,866) 203,256 1,156,495
Total Net (Deficit) Position $ (7,433,305) $ 203,256 $ 30,050,552
See Independent Auditor's Report and Notes to Financial Statements
- 4a -
Component Units
STATEMENT OF NET POSITION
(CONTINUED)
DECEMBER 31, 2014
CITY OF ELMIRA
CITY OF ELMIRA
STATEMENT OF ACTIVITIES
FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2014
Operating Capital
Charges for Grants and Grants and
Expenses Services Contributions Contributions
Governmental Activities:
General governmental support $ 3,918,923 $ 790,144 $ $ 50,587
Public safety 22,524,243 1,164,062 476,267
Transportation 6,372,356 296,754 94,593 2,673,389
Economic assistance and opportunity 138,306
Culture and recreation 1,894,276 619,458 38,509
Home and community services 3,671,545 2,495,243 1,783,635 195,996
Interest on debt 1,103,886 Total Governmental Activities $ 39,623,535 $ 5,365,661 $ 2,354,495 $ 2,958,481
Governmental Activities:
Urban Renewal Agency $ 9,063 $ 207,940 $ $
Business-type Activities:
Elmira Water Board 7,311,514 8,592,807
Total Business-type Activities 7,311,514 8,592,807
Total Component Units $ 7,320,577 $ 8,800,747 $ -0- $ -0-
Real property taxes
Real property tax items
Nonproperty tax items
Utilities gross receipts tax
Franchise taxes
Use of money and property
Sale of property and compensation for loss
Miscellaneous local sources
Gain on disposal of assets
State sources
Contributions to permanent funds
Total General Revenues
Change in Net Position
Net Position - Beginning
Net Position - Ending
- 5 -
GENERAL REVENUES
FUNCTIONS/PROGRAMS
Component Units:
Program Revenues
See Independent Auditor's Report and Notes to Financial Statements
Governmental Business-type
Net (Expense) Activities Activities
Revenue and Urban Elmira
Changes in Renewal Water
Net Position Agency Board
$ (3,078,192) $ $
(20,883,914)
(3,307,620)
(138,306)
(1,236,309)
803,329
(1,103,886)
(28,944,898)
198,877
1,281,293
1,281,293
198,877 1,281,293
11,575,305
537,757
7,248,818
247,063
314,862
89,503 186 35,680
31,548
592,368
(1,556)
4,701,484
1,375
25,338,527 186 35,680
(3,606,371) 199,063 1,316,973
(3,826,934) 4,193 28,733,579
$ (7,433,305) $ 203,256 $ 30,050,552
Component Units
- 5a -
Special Revenue
Fund
General Special Grant Permanent
Fund Fund Fund
ASSETS
Assets:
Cash and cash equivalents - Unrestricted $ 1,441,833 $ $
- Restricted 335,154
Temporary investments - Restricted 2,403,741
Due from other funds 1,148,033
Due from state and federal governments 76,069 1,780,698
Due from other governments 2,733,112
Other receivables, net 850,534 15,000
Loans receivable, net 5,206,243
Prepaid expenses 769,794
Total Assets $ 7,019,375 $ 7,337,095 $ 2,403,741
LIABILITIES
Liabilities:
Accounts payable $ 645,485 $ (368) $
Accrued liabilities 476,343 103,636
Due to other funds 477,149 4,799
Due to other governments 46,509
Revenue Anticipation Notes payable 3,000,000
Unearned revenue 171,457 6,605,210
Total Liabilities 4,816,943 6,713,277 -0-
FUND BALANCES
Fund Balances:
Nonspendable 769,794 2,403,741
Restricted 312,599 623,818
Assigned 1,542,451
Unassigned (422,412)
Total Fund Balances 2,202,432 623,818 2,403,741
Total Liabilities and Fund Balances $ 7,019,375 $ 7,337,095 $ 2,403,741
- 6 -
Major Funds
CITY OF ELMIRA
BALANCE SHEET
GOVERNMENTAL FUNDS
DECEMBER 31, 2014
See Independent Auditor's Report and Notes to Financial Statements
Total
Non-Major Total
Debt Service Capital Projects Governmental Governmental
Fund Fund Funds Funds
$ $ 110,872 $ 136,316 $ 1,689,021
34,495 369,649
2,403,741
350,319 126,830 1,625,182
1,856,767
2,069,626 4,802,738
1,300 866,834
5,206,243
769,794
$ 34,495 $ 2,530,817 $ 264,446 $ 19,589,969
$ $ 934,822 $ 861 $ 1,580,800
579,979
700,000 227,397 1,409,345
46,509
3,000,000
26,075 6,802,742
-0- 1,634,822 254,333 13,419,375
3,173,535
34,495 895,995 126,830 1,993,737
1,542,451
(116,717) (539,129)
34,495 895,995 10,113 6,170,594
$ 34,495 $ 2,530,817 $ 264,446 $ 19,589,969
- 6a -
Major Funds
Total Governmental Fund Balances $ 6,170,594
Historical cost $ 83,225,201
Accumulated depreciation (47,634,122) 35,591,079
124,186
Other postemployment benefit liability $ (16,668,501)
Accrued interest on long-term debt (269,790)
Amounts due to employees' retirement systems (2,735,517)
Compensated absences (3,888,185) (23,561,993)
Bonds payable (25,946,255)
Unamortized deferred charges on defeased debt 189,084
Net (Deficit) of Governmental Activities $ (7,433,305)
- 7 -
CITY OF ELMIRA
RECONCILIATION OF GOVERNMENTAL FUNDS BALANCE SHEET
TO THE STATEMENT OF NET POSITION
DECEMBER 31, 2014
Amounts reported for Governmental Activities in the Statement of Net Position are differentbecause:
Capital assets used in Governmental Activities are not financial resources and, therefore,
are not reported in the funds.
Internal Service Funds are used by management to charge the costs of certain activities,such as health insurance. The assets and liabilities of the Internal Service Funds areincluded in Governmental Activities in the Statement of Net Position.
Deferred outflows of resources, including deferred charges on defeased debt, representsan acquisition of net position that applies to future periods and, therefore, are notreported in the funds.
Certain accrued expenses reported in the Statement of Net position do not require theuse of current financial resources and, therefore, are not reported as liabilities inGovernmental Funds.
See Independent Auditor's Report and Notes to Financial Statements
Long-term liabilities, including bonds payable, are not due and payable in the currentperiod and, therefore, are not reported in the funds.
Special Revenue
Fund
General Special Grant Permanent
Fund Fund Fund
REVENUES
Real property taxes $ 12,283,812 $ $
Real property tax items 780,264
Nonproperty tax items 7,810,743
Departmental income 3,243,788 423,429
Intergovernmental charges 909,880
Use of money and property 14,149 65 75,205
Licenses and permits 197,397
Fines and forfeitures 378,715
Sale of property and compensation for loss 39,460
Miscellaneous local sources 466,740 38,879 1,375
Interfund revenues 52,784
State sources 4,944,532 120,000
Federal sources 337,631 1,607,810
Total Revenues 31,459,895 2,190,183 76,580
EXPENDITURES
Current:
General governmental support 2,688,097
Public safety 12,304,840
Transportation 2,426,431
Economic assistance and opportunity 128,596
Culture and recreation 1,098,493
Home and community services 1,012,556 1,548,944 13,615
Employee benefits 9,753,082 65,902
Capital outlay
Debt service:
Principal 372,961 280,000
Interest 124,358 53,727
Total Expenditures 29,909,414 1,948,573 13,615
Excess of Revenues (Expenditures) 1,550,481 241,610 62,965
Total Other Financing (Uses) Sources (2,585,061) -0- (82,095)
Net Change in Fund Balances (1,034,580) 241,610 (19,130)
Fund Balances, Beginning 3,237,012 382,208 2,422,871
Fund Balances, Ending $ 2,202,432 $ 623,818 $ 2,403,741
Major Funds
See Independent Auditor's Report and Notes to Financial Statements
- 8 -
CITY OF ELMIRA
STATEMENT OF REVENUES, EXPENDITURES, AND CHANGES IN FUND BALANCES
GOVERNMENTAL FUNDS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2014
Total
Non-Major Total
Debt Service Capital Projects Governmental Governmental
Fund Fund Funds Funds
$ $ $ $ 12,283,812
780,264
7,810,743
158,070 3,825,287
909,880
12 616 952 90,999
197,397
378,715
39,460
7,978 135,043 650,015
195,549 248,333
1,223,985 6,288,517
1,528,681 3,474,122
12 2,956,809 294,065 36,977,544
56,399 2,744,496
1,508 12,306,348
2,426,431
128,596
1,098,493
244,788 2,819,903
16,289 9,835,273
5,055,536 5,055,536
2,435,545 3,088,506
849,517 4,807 1,032,409
3,341,461 5,060,343 262,585 40,535,991
(3,341,449) (2,103,534) 31,480 (3,558,447)
3,285,061 82,095 4,398,783
(1,088) (700,000) (4,399,871)
3,630,000 2,543,000 6,173,000
125,828 125,828
(3,699,429) (3,699,429)
3,340,372 1,843,000 82,095 2,598,311
(1,077) (260,534) 113,575 (960,136)
35,572 1,156,529 (103,462) 7,130,730
$ 34,495 $ 895,995 $ 10,113 $ 6,170,594
Major Funds
- 8a -
Net Change in Fund Balances - Total Governmental Funds $ (960,136)
Capital outlay $ 4,241,769
Depreciation expense (3,443,281)
Net book value of disposed assets (9,468) 789,020
(951,014)
Proceeds of debt $ (6,173,000)
Principal payments 3,088,506
Transfer to escrow agent 3,699,429 614,935
Amortization of deferred charges on defeased debt (13,653)
Premium on refunding bonds $ (125,828)
Amortization of bond premium 8,473 (117,355)
Accrued interest payable $ (65,735)
Other postemployment benefits (2,242,846)
Compensated absences (181,115)
Pension obligations (479,100) (2,968,796)
628
Change in Net Position of Governmental Activities $ (3,606,371)
- 9 -
See Independent Auditor's Report and Notes to Financial Statements
Governmental Funds report capital outlay as expenditures. However, in the Statement ofActivities, the cost of those assets is allocated over their estimated useful lives asdepreciation expense. This is the amount by which capital outlay exceeded depreciationexpense and net book value of disposed assets in the current period.
Revenues in the Statement of Activities that do not provide current financial resources are notreported as revenues in the funds. This is the change in unavailable revenue.
Bond proceeds provide current financial resources to Governmental Funds, but issuing debtincreases long-term liabilities in the Statement of Net Position. Repayment of debt principal isan expenditure in the Governmental Funds, but the repayment reduces long-term liabilities inthe Statement of Net Position. This is the amount by which issuance of new debt exceededrepayment of debt principal.
Some expenses reported in the Statement of Activities do not require the use of currentfinancial resources and, therefore, are not reported as expenditures in Governmental Funds.
Internal Service Funds are used by management to charge the costs of certain activities, suchas health insurance. The net (expense) of the Internal Service Fund is reported withGovernmental Activities.
The issuance of refunding bonds results in a difference between the old and new debt. Thisdeferred amount is amortized annually.
Premiums and discounts received on obligations are recorded as other financing sources anduses in the Governmental Funds when received, but are deferred and amortized in theGovernmental Activities. This is the amortization of premiums received in previous years,and the adjustment for premiums and costs received in the current year.
CITY OF ELMIRA
RECONCILIATION OF GOVERNMENTAL FUNDS STATEMENT OF REVENUES, EXPENDITURES,
FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2014
Amounts reported for Governmental Activities in the Statement of Activities are differentbecause:
AND CHANGES IN FUND BALANCES TO THE STATEMENT OF ACTIVITIES
Self
Insurance Fund
ASSETS
Current Assets:
Total Current Assets $ -0-
Noncurrent Assets:
Restricted cash and cash equivalents 340,023
Total Noncurrent Assets 340,023
Total Assets 340,023
LIABILITIES
Current Liabilities:
Due to other funds 215,837
Total Current Liabilities 215,837
Noncurrent Liabilities:
Total Noncurrent Liabilities -0-
Total Liabilities 215,837
NET POSITION
Unrestricted 124,186
Total Net Position $ 124,186
- 10 -
See Independent Auditor's Report and Notes to Financial Statements
CITY OF ELMIRA
STATEMENT OF NET POSITION
PROPRIETARY FUND
DECEMBER 31, 2014
Self
Insurance Fund
OPERATING REVENUES
Total Operating Revenues $ -0-
OPERATING EXPENSES
Total Operating Expenses -0-
Income from Operations -0-
NONOPERATING REVENUES (EXPENSES)
Interest income 102
Interest (expense) (562)
Total Nonoperating (Expenses) (460)
Net (Loss) Before Transfers (460)
Interfund transfers in 1,088
Change in Net Position 628
Total Net Position, Beginning 123,558
Total Net Position, Ending $ 124,186
- 11 -
CITY OF ELMIRA
STATEMENT OF REVENUES, EXPENSES, AND CHANGES IN FUND NET POSITION
PROPRIETARY FUND
FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2014
See Independent Auditor's Report and Notes to Financial Statements
Self
Insurance Fund
Cash Flows from Operating Activities:
Cash paid from other funds $ 25,170
Net Cash Provided by Operating Activities 25,170
Net Cash Provided by Non-capital Financing Activities -0-
Cash Flows from Capital and Related Financing Activities:
Bond payments (25,696)
Transfer from other funds for prior year debt service 1,088
Interest expense (562)
Net Cash (Used) by Capital and Related Financing Activities (25,170)
Cash Flows from Investing Activities:
Interest income received 102
Net Cash Provided by Investing Activities 102
NET INCREASE IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS 102
Cash and Cash Equivalents, January 1, 2014 339,921
Cash and Cash Equivalents, December 31, 2014 $ 340,023
Reconciliation of Income from Operations
to Net Cash Provided by Operating Activities:
Increase due to other funds $ 25,170
Net Cash Provided by Operating Activities $ 25,170
CITY OF ELMIRA
- 12 -
STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS
PROPRIETARY FUND
FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2014
See Independent Auditor's Report and Notes to Financial Statements
Agency
Fund
Cash and cash equivalents $ 144,035
Other receivables 4,481
Total Assets $ 148,516
Agency liabilities $ 148,516
Total Liabilities $ 148,516
- 13 -
CITY OF ELMIRA
STATEMENT OF FIDUCIARY NET ASSETS
FIDUCIARY FUND
DECEMBER 31, 2014
ASSETS
LIABILITIES
See Independent Auditor's Report and Notes to Financial Statements
CITY OF ELMIRANOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2014
- 14 -
Note 1 - Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
The basic financial statements of the City of Elmira (the City) have been prepared in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) as applied to government units. The Governmental Accounting Standards Board (GASB) is the accepted standard setting body for establishing governmental accounting and financial reporting principles. The more significant of the government's accounting policies are described below.
A. Reporting Entity
The City, which was incorporated in 1906, is governed by the Charter of the City of Elmira, the General City Law, other general laws of the State of New York, and various local laws and ordinances.
The City Council, which is the legislative body responsible for the overall operation of the City,consists of a mayor and council members. The City Manager serves as chief executive officer and the City Chamberlain serves as chief fiscal officer of the City.
The following basic services are provided: police services and law enforcement, fire protection, water facilities and services, street and highway maintenance, recreation facilities and programs, cemetery services, public parking facilities, community development and assistance, and environmental services.
All Governmental Activities and functions performed for the City of Elmira are its direct responsibility. The basic financial statements include all funds of the primary government, which is the City, organizations for which the primary government is financially accountable, and other organizational entities for which the nature and significance of their relationship with the primary government are such that their exclusion would cause the reporting entity’s basic financial statements to be misleading or incomplete, determined to be included in the City’s reporting entity in accordance with GASB Statement Number 14, as amended by GASB Statement Numbers 39 and 61.
1. Related Organizations
a. Elmira City School District
The Elmira City School District was established pursuant to Education Law to provide basic elementary and secondary education. The City is no longer required to enforce collection of unpaid school district real property taxes through an inter-municipal agreement with the County of Chemung in 1996. The County’s Civil Service Commission provides routine civil service employment and personnel functions for the school district. However, a separate elected Board of Education is responsible for overall school operations and finances and the district is neither financially nor administratively dependent upon the City. Consequently, the school district’s financial activity is excluded from the City’s reporting entity.
b. Elmira Housing Authority
The Elmira Housing Authority was established in 1942 by a special act of the State Legislature to provide public housing within the City. The legislative body governing the authority consists of seven board members. Two board members are tenants elected biannually by the qualified tenants of the housing project and five members are appointed by the City Manager, but the City does not exercise substantive authority over the board members. The Authority conducts the elections and provides necessary personnel for inspections. Consequently, the Authority is excluded from the City’s reporting entity.
CITY OF ELMIRANOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(CONTINUED)FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2014
- 15 -
The primary funding sources for the Elmira Housing Authority are state and federal subsidies and tenant rents. The Authority determines and modifies its own budget, sets its own rates, and may issue bonded debt without the City’s approval. In addition, the City is not entitled to and cannot otherwise access a majority of the Authority’s resources. Consequently, the Authority’s financial activity is excluded from the City’s reporting entity.
2. Discretely Presented Component Units
The City has implemented GASB Statement Number 61, “The Financial Reporting Entity: Omnibus.” This statement amends GASB Statement Number 39, “Determining Whether Certain Organizations are Component Units” and GASB Statement Number 14, “The Financial Reporting Entity,” to provide additional guidance to determine whether certain organizations for which the City is not financial accountable should be reported as component units based on the nature and significance of their relationship with the City.
The decision to include a potential component unit in the City’s reporting entity is based on several criteria including legal standing, fiscal dependency, and financial accountability. Based onthe application of these criteria, the following are included as discretely presented component units:
a. Elmira Urban Renewal Agency
The Building and Housing Development (Elmira Urban Renewal Agency) was established in 1966 by special act of the State Legislature to carry out municipal urban renewal programs generally funded by federal grants. In 1974, this agency was also designated as the Community Development Agency responsible for administering federal community development grants on behalf of the City. The City Council, with Mayor as Chairman, comprises the Agency’s management. The Agency is funded entirely from federal grant money, and the City is ultimately responsible for the proper disposition of grant funds and any debt incurred by the agency.
b. Elmira Water Board
The Elmira Water Board, established by charter provisions, is a local water company which provides water to various communities in the County of Chemung. The executive body of the Elmira Water Board, which manages operations of the Board, consists of five commissioners elected by residents of the City. Revenues are primarily generated from billings to customers for water usage.
The Elmira Water Board is considered a Business-type Activity and uses Enterprise Funds. The accounts for this component unit represent activity and balances for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2014. Separate audited financial statements are issued for the Elmira Water Board, which can be obtained by writing to The Elmira Water Board, General Manager, 261 W. Water Street, Elmira, New York 14901.
B. Basic Financial Statements
The City's basic financial statements include both Government-wide (reporting the City as a whole) and Governmental Fund financial statements (reporting the City's Major Funds.) Both the Government-wide and Governmental Fund financial statements categorize primary activities as either Governmental or Business-type. The City's general governmental support, education, public safety, transportation, public health, highways and streets, economic assistance and opportunity, culture and recreation, and home and community services are classified as Governmental Activities.The City has no Business-type Activities except for the Elmira Water Board.
CITY OF ELMIRANOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(CONTINUED)FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2014
- 16 -
1. Government-wide Financial Statements
The Government-wide financial statements include a Statement of Net Position and a Statement of Activities. These statements present summaries of activities for the primary government. Government-wide financial statements do not include the activities reported in the Fiduciary Fund. This Government-wide focus is more on the sustainability of the City as an entity and the change in the City's net position resulting from the current year's activities.
In the Government-wide Statement of Net Position, the Governmental Activities columns are reported on a full accrual, economic resource basis, which recognizes all long-term assets and receivables as well as long-term debt and obligations. The City's net assets are reported in three parts - net investment in capital assets, restricted, and unrestricted. The City first utilizes restricted resources to finance qualifying activities.
The Statement of Activities reports both the gross and net cost for each of the City's functions or programs. Gross expenses are direct expenses, including depreciation, that are specifically associated with a service, program or department and, therefore, clearly identifiable to a particular function. These expenses are offset by program revenues - charges paid by the recipient of the goods or services offered by the program, grants, and contributions that are restricted to meeting the program or capital requirements of a particular program. Revenues which are not classified as program revenues are presented as general revenues of the City, with certain limited exceptions. The net cost represents the extent to which each function or program is self-financing or draws from the general revenues of the City.
The City does not allocate indirect costs. Indirect costs are reported in the function entitled “general government.”
The financial transactions of the City are reported in individual funds in the Governmental Fund financial statements. Each fund is accounted for by providing a separate set of self-balancing accounts that comprise its assets, liabilities, reserves, fund equity, revenues, and expenditures or expenses. Fund accounting is designed to demonstrate legal compliance and to aid financial management by segregating transactions related to certain government functions or activities.
The City records its transactions in the funds described below:
a. Governmental Funds:
Governmental Funds are those through which most governmental functions are financed. The acquisition, use and balances of expendable financial resources, and the related liabilities are accounted for through Governmental Funds. The measurement focus of the Governmental Funds is based upon determination of financial position and changes in financial position. The following are the City's Governmental Funds:
1) Major Funds:
a) General Fund - accounts for revenues (i.e., general tax and other from state, federal, and local sources) not required by law or other provision to be accounted for in other funds and which finance the basic governmental functions provided by the City.
CITY OF ELMIRANOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(CONTINUED)FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2014
- 17 -
b) Special Revenue Funds:
Account for the proceeds of specific revenue sources legally restricted to expenditures for specified purposes. The following Special Revenue Fund isreported as a Major Fund:
Special Grant Fund - Comprised of the Community Development Fund and the Economic Development Fund. These are used to account for monies distributed by the federal government and expended pursuant to rules and regulations as set forth by the Department of Housing and Urban Development and other federal agencies.
Capital Projects Fund - Accounts for capital improvements to the City of Elmira for infrastructure, transportation and recreational purposes financed primarily by proceeds of obligations, state and federal grants and transfers from other funds.
Permanent Fund - Accounts for assets donated for cemetery maintenance that are permanently restricted. The principal portion of this fund is invested pursuant to Section 215 of the City Charter and interest and dividend earnings are expended for routine cemetery operations in a Special Revenue Fund.
Debt Service Fund - Accounts for the accumulation of resources for, and the payments of, general long-term debt; including principal, interest, and related costs.
2) Non-Major Funds:
Special Revenue Fund:
Miscellaneous Special Revenue Fund - Consists of the Woodlawn Cemetery special revenue fund. Accounts for the operation of the City’s municipally owned cemetery.
3) Proprietary Fund:
Accounts for ongoing organizations or activities similar to those found in the private sector. The measurement focus is based upon determination of net income, financial position, and changes in financial position. The following Proprietary Fund is utilized:
Internal Service Fund - Accounts for special activities or services provided by one department to other departments or to other governments on a cost-reimbursement basis. Included is the following:
Self Insurance Reserve - Established by the City of Elmira to account for reserve funding for the retained portion of liability claims and for certain claims and judgments.
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4) Fiduciary Fund:
Accounts for assets held by the local government in a trustee or custodial capacity. The following is the City’s fiduciary fund:
Agency Fund - Accounts for money and/or property received and held in the capacity of trustee, custodian or agent.
C. Basis of Accounting/Measurement Focus
Basis of accounting refers to when revenues and expenditures and the related assets and liabilities are recognized in the accounts and reported in the financial statements. Basis of accounting relates to the timing of the measurements made, regardless of the measurement focus. Measurement focus is the determination of what is measured, i.e. expenditures or expenses.
1. Accrual Basis
The government-wide financial statements and Fiduciary Fund financial statements are presented on an “economic resources” measurement focus and the accrual basis of accounting. Accordingly all of the City’s assets and liabilities, including capital assets, as well as infrastructure assets and long-term liabilities, are included in the accompanying Statement of Net Position. The Statement of Activities presents changes in net position. Under the accrual basis of accounting, revenues are recognized when earned and expenses are recognized when incurred.
2. Modified Accrual Basis
Under this basis of accounting, revenues are recorded when measurable and available. Available means collectible within the current period or soon enough thereafter to be used to pay liabilities of the current period. Material revenues that are accrued include real property taxes, state and federal aid, sales tax, and certain user charges. The City considers property tax receivables collected within 60 days after year end to be available and recognizes them as revenues of the current year. All other revenues deemed collectible within one year after year end are recognized as revenues in the current year.
If expenditures are the prime factor for determining eligibility, revenues from federal and state grants are accrued when the expenditure is made. Expenditures are recorded when incurred. The cost of capital assets is recognized as an expenditure when received. Exceptions to this general rule are that 1) principal and interest on indebtedness are not recognized as an expenditure until due, and 2) compensated absences, such as vacation and sick leave, which vests or accumulates, are charged as an expenditure when paid.
D. Unearned Revenue
The City reports unearned revenue on its Statement of Net Position and its Balance Sheet. On the Statement of Net Position and Balance Sheet, unearned revenue arises when resources are received by the City before it has legal claim to them, as when grant monies are received prior to incurrence of qualifying expenditures. In subsequent periods, when the City has legal claim to the resources, the liability for unearned revenue is removed and revenue is recognized.
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E. Deferred Outflows of Resources
In addition to assets, the Statement of Net Position will sometimes report a separate section for deferred outflows of resources. This separate financial statement element, deferred outflows of resources, represents a consumption of net position that applies to a future period and so will not be recognized as an outflow of resources (expense/expenditure) until then. The government has one item that qualifies for reporting in this category. It is the deferred charge on refunding reported in the government-wide Statement of Net Position. A deferred charge on refunding results from the difference in the carrying value of refunded debt and its reacquisition price. This amount is deferred and amortized over the shorter of the life of the refunded or refunding debt.
F. Property Taxes
City real property taxes are levied annually on or before the first meeting of the City Council in the month of March and become a lien on or before the fifteenth of April each year. Taxes are collected in two equal installments, one on May 15, the other on September 15. For past due taxes, the County reimburses the City for uncollected amounts annually each April 1. During 2014 the intermunicipal agreement with the County was amended and uncollected amounts are to be paid annually by February 28.
G. Insurance
The City assumes the liability for most risk including, but not limited to, property damage and personal injury liability. Judgments and claims are recorded when it is probable that an asset had been impaired or a liability had been incurred and the amount of the loss can be reasonably estimated.
H. Compensated Absences
Pursuant to resolutions of the City Council and contractual agreements, City employees are granted vacation and sick leave and earn compensatory absences in varying amounts. In the event of termination or upon retirement, certain City employees are entitled to payment for accumulated vacation and sick leave, and unused compensatory absences at various rates, subject to certain maximum limitations. The expenditures for these fringe benefits are recorded in Governmental Funds at the time the benefit is paid.
I. Long-term Obligations
In the Government-wide financial statements, long-term debt and other long-term obligations are reported as liabilities in the applicable Governmental Activities or Business-type Activities. Bond premiums and discounts are amortized over the life of the bonds using the effective interest method. Bonds payable are reported net of the applicable bond premium or discount. Bond issuance costs are reported as expenses/expenditures in the period incurred.
J. Cash and Cash Equivalents
For financial statement purposes, cash on hand, demand deposits, and all highly liquid investments of three months or less are considered as cash equivalents. City monies must be deposited in Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC)-insured commercial banks or trust companies that are designated as official depositories of the City. The City is authorized to use demand accounts and certificates of deposit.
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K. Capital Assets
All capital assets, which include land, buildings, improvements other than buildings, machinery and equipment, and infrastructure assets (e.g., roads, bridges, sidewalks and similar items), are valued at historical cost or estimated historical cost. Contributed assets are reported at fair market value as of the date received. Additions, improvements, and other capital outlays that significantly extend the useful life of an asset are capitalized. Other costs incurred for repairs and maintenance that do not add to the value of the asset or materially extend the life of the asset, are expensed as incurred. Depreciation on all assets is provided on the straight-line basis over the estimated useful lives of the assets. Governmental capital assets having a useful life of greater than two years and purchased or acquired with an original cost of over $15,000 for machinery and equipment, $2,500 for office furniture and equipment, $15,000 for building and land improvements and renovations, and $25,000 for infrastructure assets and are capitalized. The estimated useful lives for governmental capital assets are as follows:
Buildings 15 - 25 yearsImprovements 10 - 25 yearsMachinery and equipment 4 - 15 yearsInfrastructure 10 - 50 years
Major outlay for capital assets and improvements are capitalized as projects are constructed. Interest incurred during the construction phase of capital assets of Business-type Activities, if any, is included as part of the capitalized value of the assets constructed. No interest on construction in progress has been capitalized during the current fiscal year.
L. Postemployment Benefits
In addition to providing pension benefits, the City provides partial health insurance coverage and survivor benefits for retired employees and their survivors. Substantially all of the City's full-time employees may become eligible for health insurance benefits for ten years after retirement at approximately no cost if they reach normal retirement age and have ten (10) or more continuous years of service for management and twenty (20) years for union members. Police and Fire retirees receive twelve (12) years of health insurance benefits at no cost. Health care benefits and survivors benefits are provided by the City’s self-insurance plan. Charges are based on benefits and administrative costs paid during the year. The City recognizes the cost of providing benefits by recording its share of insurance premiums as an expenditure in the year paid. See Note 3.E.4 regarding other postemployment benefit liability.
M. Investments
The City’s investment policies are governed by State statutes. In addition, the City has its own written investments policy. Permissible investments include obligations of the United States Treasury, obligations guaranteed by United States agencies where payment of principal and interest are guaranteed by the United States, repurchase agreements and obligations of New York State or its localities. Investments are stated at fair value and are held by the City’s third party custodial banks.
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N. Use of Estimates
Management uses estimates and assumptions in preparing financial statements. Those estimates and assumptions affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities, and the reported revenues and expenses. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
O. Equity Classifications
1. Government-wide Financial Statements
Equity is classified as net position and displayed in three components:
Net investment in capital assets - Consists of capital assets including restricted capital assets, net of accumulated depreciation and reduced by the outstanding balances of any bonds, mortgages, notes or other borrowings that are attributable to the acquisition, construction, or improvement of those assets.
Restricted - Consists of resources with constraints placed on the use either by 1) external groups such as creditors, grantors, contributors, or laws or regulations of other governments; or 2) law through constitutional provisions or enabling legislation.
Unrestricted - Consists of all other resources which do not meet the definition of “restricted” or “net investment in capital assets.”
2. Governmental Fund Financial Statements
The City has implemented Governmental Accounting Standards Board Statement Number 54, “Fund Balance Reporting and Governmental Fund Type Definitions” which changedthe terminology and classification of fund balance to reflect spending constraints on resources, rather than availability for appropriation. This approach is intended to provide users more consistent and understandable information about a fund’s net resources.
Constraints are broken into five classifications: nonspendable, restricted, committed, assigned, and unassigned. These classifications serve to inform readers of the financial statements of the extent to which the government is bound to honor any constraints on specific purposes for which resources in a fund can be spent.
Nonspendable Consists of assets inherently nonspendable in the current period either because of
their form or because they must be maintained intact; including prepaid items, inventories, long-term portions of loans receivable, financial assets held for resale, and endowments principal.
Restricted Consists of amounts subject to legal purpose restrictions imposed by creditors,
grantors, contributors, or laws and regulations of other governments and enforced externally; or through constitutional provisions or enabling legislation. Most of the City’s legally adopted reserves are reported here.
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Committed Consists of amounts subject to a purpose constraint imposed by formal action of the
government’s highest level of decision-making authority prior to the end of the fiscal year, which requires the same level of formal action to remove said constraint.
Assigned Consists of amounts subject to a purpose constraint representing an intended use
established by the government’s highest level of decision-making authority, or their designated body or official. The purpose of the assignment must be narrower than the purpose of the General Fund. In funds other than the General Fund, assigned fund balance represents the residual amount of fund balance.
UnassignedRepresents the residual classification of the government’s General Fund, and could
report a surplus or deficit. In funds other than the General Fund, the unassigned classification should only be used to report a deficit balance resulting from overspending amounts restricted, committed, or assigned for specific purposes.
The City has not adopted any resolutions to commit fund balance. Currently, fund balance is assigned by the Chamberlain for encumbrances and designations and the City Council, by resolution, approves fund balance appropriations for the following year’s budget. The City’s policy is to apply expenditures against non-spendable fund balance, restricted fund balance, committed fund balance, assigned fund balance, and unassigned fund balance.
3. Fund Equity
Reservations of fund balances are created to either satisfy legal restrictions or to plan for future expenditures. A designation of unassigned fund balances in Governmental Funds indicates the use of these resources in the subsequent year's budget. Proprietary Fund equity is classified the same as in the Government-wide financial statements. The following reserve funds are utilized by the City:
Reserve for DebtUsed to accumulate resources for payment of future principal and interest on long-
term debt. This reserve is accounted for in the Debt Service Fund.
Reserve for Other PurposesEstablished for various purposes, including cemetery maintenance, aggregated and
reported in the Non-Major Special Revenue and Permanent Funds.
Reserve for Insurance Used to accumulate funds to pay minor uninsured claims and reported in the
General Fund.
P. Interfund Activity
Interfund activity is reported as either loans, services provided, reimbursements or transfers. Loans are reported as interfund receivables and payables as appropriate, and are subject to elimination upon consolidation. Services provided, deemed to be at market or near market rates, are treated as revenues and expenditures/expenses. Reimbursements occur when one fund incurs a cost, charges the appropriate benefiting fund and reduces its related cost as a reimbursement. All other interfund transactions are treated as transfers.
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Q. Operating Revenues and Expenses - Elmira Water Board
Operating revenues of Elmira Water Board consist of user fees. Operating expenses consist of salaries, wages and benefits, contractual services and depreciation and amortization. Transactions related to capital and financing activities, non-capital financing activities, investing activities and interfund transfers from other funds are components of non-operating income.
R. Restricted Resources
When an expense is incurred for purposes for which both restricted and unrestricted net assets are available, it is the City’s policy to apply restricted funds before unrestricted funds, unless otherwise prohibited by legal requirements.
Certain assets are classified on the Balance Sheet as restricted because their use is limited. The proceeds of bond and note sales can only be used for the stated purpose of the borrowing. Property taxes collected for debt service payments are legally restricted for that purpose. Community Development Block Grant Funds must be used only for approved programs. Cemetery perpetual care funds cannot be expended. However, the interest earnings can be spent for cemetery maintenance functions. It is the City’s policy to spend the interest earnings each fiscal year.
Note 2 - Stewardship, Compliance and Accountability
Unrestricted Net Asset Deficit
At December 31, 2014, the Government-wide Statement of Net Position had an unrestricted deficit net position of $(19,171,866). This is the result of the requirement to record other postemployment benefit liability with no requirement or mechanism to fund this liability. (See Note 3.E.4.) The deficit is not expected to be eliminated during the normal course of operations.
Note 3 - Detail Notes
A. Assets
1. Cash and Investments
The City's investment policies are governed by State statutes. In addition, the City has its own written investment policy. City monies must be deposited in FDIC insured commercial banks or trust companies located within the State designated as official depositories of the City. The City is authorized to use demand accounts and certificates of deposit. Permissible investments include obligations of the United States Treasury, United States Agencies where payment of principal and interest are guaranteed by the United States, repurchase agreements, and obligations of New York State or its localities.
Collateral is required for demand deposits and certificates of deposit. Deposits must be fully secured by insurance of the FDIC or by obligations pledged as collateral which must be obligations of the United States and its agencies, or obligations of the State or its municipalities. Collateral must be delivered to the City or a custodial bank with which the City has entered into a written custodial agreement. The agreement outlines the basic responsibilities of the bank for securities pledged to secure time deposits. The custodial agreement provides that the collateral securities are held separate from the assets of the custodial bank; that the custodian takes possession of the securities exclusively for the City; that the securities are free of any claims against the trading bank; and that any claims of the custodian are subordinate to the claims of the local government.
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The written investment policy requires that repurchase agreements be purchased from banks located within the State and that underlying securities must be obligations of the Federal government. Underlying securities must have a market value of at least 100% of the cost of the repurchase agreement.
Deposits and investments are valued at cost plus accrued interest.
The primary government’s total financial institution (bank) balances at December 31, 2014, were $4,949,433, with a carrying value of $4,547,649. Deposits at year end were entirely covered by federal deposit insurance or collateralized with securities held by the pledging financial institution's trust department or agent in the City's or component unit’s name.
Total financial institution (bank) balances for the discretely presented component units at December 31, 2014, were as follows:
Bank Carrying
Component Unit: Balances Value
Urban Renewal Agency $ 496,218 $ 496,218
Investments are stated at cost plus accrued interest.
The following investments are held by the City:
Cost Fair Value Description
Major Funds:
Permanent Fund $ 2,403,741 $ 2,403,741 See below
Total Non-Major Funds $ 2,403,741 $ 2,403,741
The Woodlawn Cemetery Commission maintains a non-expendable Permanent Fund, which is reported as a Major Fund and a Cemetery Maintenance Fund, which is reported as a Non-Major Special Revenue Fund.
These funds are not governed by the City’s written investment policy, but are invested pursuant to Section 215 of the City Charter.
Permanent Fund: Cost Fair Value
Cash, money market funds, and government obligations $ 9,547 $ 9,547
Corporate bonds 725,450 756,201
Equities 768,847 1,145,657
Mutual funds 458,027 492,336
Total $ 1,961,871 $ 2,403,741
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2. Restricted Cash and Investments
a) City of Elmira
Restricted cash and investments include:
Restricted for: Cash Investments
Special Grant $ 335,154 $
Debt service 34,495
Cemetery maintenance 2,403,741
Self insurance 340,023
Total $ 709,672 $ 2,403,741
b) Elmira Water Board
Restricted cash represents unspent note proceeds and funds set aside for future capital expenditures, debt service, and retirement contributions. Certain restricted cash funds are restricted by grantors or by law through the Water Board’s charter. At December 31, 2014 that amount totaled $668,255, and was recorded as net assets restricted for capital improvement on the Balance Sheet. Restricted cash balances consist of the following at December 31, 2014:
Water System Improvement Fund $ 68,221
System Wide Improvement Fund 500,025
Capital Reserve Fund 100,009
Debt Service Fund 337,891
Total $ 1,006,146
B. Property Taxes
Each year, the County of Chemung pays the City the entire amount of delinquent taxes from the immediately preceding year. During the year ended December 31, 2014, this intermunicipal agreement between the City and the County was amended to provide for payment by February 28 of the subsequent year. Therefore, substantially all tax liens will be collected within the first sixty (60) days of the subsequent year.
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C. Other Receivables
Other receivables at December 31, 2014 are as follows:
Major Funds
General Fund:
SAFER Grant $ 89,415
Inspections and abatements 578,710
Police services 97,703
Due from Elmira Water Board 1,050
Payments in lieu of taxes 72,000
Other accounts receivable 11,656
Total General Fund 850,534
Special Grant Fund:
Creating Healthy Places Grant 15,000
Total Major Funds 865,534
Non-Major Funds
Miscellaneous Special Revenue Fund:
Accounts receivable 1,300
Total Non-Major Funds 1,300
Total Governmental Activities $ 866,834
Loan receivables of $5,206,243, reported in the Special Grant Fund, consist of program loan principal and accrued interest receivable of $4,697,262, an allowance of $(5,000), and an Economic Development loan of $513,981.
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D. Summary of Fixed Assets
A summary of changes in the City's capital assets at December 31, 2014 follows:
Balance at 01/01/14 Additions
Deletions/Adjustments
Balance at12/31/14
Governmental ActivitiesNon-depreciable Capital Assets: Land $ 734,637 $ $ $ 734,637 Construction in progress 787,779 787,779 Total Non-depreciable Capital Assets 734,637 787,779 -0- 1,522,416
Depreciable Capital Assets: Buildings 15,184,445 51,362 15,235,807 Improvements 930,189 238,155 1,168,344 Machinery and equipment 13,301,026 428,108 (66,894) 13,662,240 Infrastructure 48,900,029 2,736,365 51,636,394 Total Depreciable Capital Assets 78,315,689 3,453,990 (66,894) 81,702,785
Total Historical Cost 79,050,326 4,241,769 (66,894) 83,225,201
Less Accumulated Depreciation: Buildings (11,201,538) (346,350) (11,547,888) Improvements (753,837) (27,210) (781,047) Machinery and equipment (10,123,984) (544,482) 57,426 (10,611,040) Infrastructure (22,168,908) (2,525,239) (24,694,147) Total Accumulated Depreciation (44,248,267) (3,443,281) 57,426 (47,634,122)
Governmental Activities Capital Assets, Net $ 34,802,059 $ 798,488 $ (9,468) $ 35,591,079
Depreciation expense was charged to functions as follows:
Governmental ActivitiesGeneral governmental support $ 229,801Public safety 323,279Transportation 2,648,225Economic assistance 4,469Culture and recreation 177,981Home and community services 59,526
Total Governmental Activities Depreciation Expense $ 3,443,281
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A summary of changes in the Elmira Water Board's capital assets is as follows:
Balance at Balance atType 01/01/14 Additions Deletions 12/31/14
Non-depreciable Capital Assets: Land $ 525,998 $ $ $ 525,998 Construction in progress 6,689 6,689 Total Non-depreciable Capital Assets 532,687 -0- -0- 532,687
Depreciable Capital Assets: Source of supply 4,370,956 4,370,956 Power and pumping 3,935,227 76,340 4,011,567 Purification and treatment 15,663,193 27,542 15,690,735 Distribution 30,496,134 496,817 (20,504) 30,972,447 Other 4,630,533 23,552 (89,574) 4,564,511
Total Depreciable Capital Assets 59,096,043 624,251 (110,078) 59,610,216
Less Accumulated depreciation (24,304,367) (1,219,760) 98,855 (25,425,272)
Elmira Water Board Capital Assets, Net $ 35,324,363 $ (595,509) $ (11,223) $ 34,717,631
E. Liabilities
1. Pension Plans
a. Plan Description
The City participates in the New York State and Local Employees' Retirement System (ERS), the New York State and Local Police and Fire Retirement System (PFRS), and the Public Employees' Group Life Insurance Plan (Systems). These are cost-sharing multiple-employer defined benefit retirement systems. The Systems provide retirement benefits as well as death and disability benefits. Obligations of employers and employees to contribute, and benefits to employees are governed by the New York State Retirement and Social Security Law (NYSRSSL). As set forth in the NYSRSSL, the Comptroller of the State of New York (Comptroller) serves as sole trustee and administrative head of the Systems. The Comptroller shall adopt and may amend rules and regulations for the administration and transaction of the business of the Systems and for the custody and control of their funds. The Systems issue a publicly available financial report that includes financial statements and required supplementary information. That report may be obtained by writing to the New York State and Local Retirement Systems, 110 State Street, Albany, NY 12244.
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b. Funding Policy
The Systems are noncontributory except for employees who joined the New York State and Local Employees' Retirement System after July 27, 1976 and have fewer than ten years of credited service. These members contribute 3% of their salary. Those joining the (ERS) on or after January 1, 2010 and before April 1, 2012 are required to contribute 3% of their annual salary for their entire working career. Those joining the System on or after April 1, 2012 are required to contribute between 3% and 6%, dependent on salary, for their entire working career. Under the authority of the New York State Retirement and Social Security Law, the Comptroller shall certify annually the rates expressed as proportions of payroll of members which shall be used in computing the contributions required to be made by the employer to the Pension Accumulation Fund.
The City is required to contribute at an actuarially determined rate. The required contributions for the current year and two preceding years were:
Year ERS PFRS2014 $ 455,133 $ 1,970,3162013 408,739 2,014,9822012 433,459 1,886,043
The City's contributions made to the System were equal to 100% of the contributions required for each of the years. The System’s pension relief legislation (New York State Chapter 620, Laws of 2004) was enacted to provide employers with relief in payment of their annual ERS and PFRS costs. This legislation provides several options to employers, including delaying their payments from December 15 to February 6 of the ensuing year, payment of a portion of their cost over an amortized period, and the means to issue serial bonds to provide funding for the employer’s liability. In addition, the employer was given the option of making full payment on December 15 at a discounted amount. The City exercised its option to participate in the New York State and Local Retirement Systems Contribution Stabilization Program, utilizing the maximum amortization for 2014 and making payment on December 15, 2014, equal to 100% of the contributions required for the year.
The New York State Legislature has authorized local governments to make available retirement incentive programs. The City participates in early retirement programs when they are offered and has elected to pay the related cost over a five year amortization period, which includes interest at rates ranging from 8% to 8.5%. There is no remaining liability for these incentive programs at December 31, 2014.
2. Short-term Debt
Liabilities for Revenue Anticipation Notes (RANs) are generally accounted for in the General Fund and are issued to provide working capital. Liabilities for Bond Anticipation Notes (BANs) are generally accounted for in the Capital Projects Fund and are issued to fund capital improvements.Principal payments on BANs must be made annually.
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The notes or renewal thereof may not extend more than two years beyond the original date of issue unless a portion is redeemed within two years and within each 12 month period thereafter. State law requires BANs issued for capital purposes be converted to long-term obligations within five years after the original issue date. However, BANs issued for assessable improvement projects may be renewed for periods equivalent to the maximum life of the permanent financing, provided stipulated annual reductions of principal are made.
The City accounts for BANs and RANs as current obligations, and records them in the fund to which they apply. BANs of $-0- and RANs of $3,000,000 were outstanding at December 31, 2014.
Changes in BANs and RANs outstanding are as follows:
Interest expense on short-term debt is calculated as follows:
Interest paid $ 25,192Less interest accrued at December 31, 2013 -0-Add interest accrued at December 31, 2014 -0-
Interest Expense $ 25,192
3. Long-term Debt
a. Constitutional Debt Limit
At December 31, 2014, the total outstanding indebtedness of the City, including the Elmira Water Board, aggregated to $38,266,246. Of this amount, $27,133,900 was subject to the City's constitutional debt limit, and represented approximately 60.0% of its debt limit.
b. Serial Bonds and Installment Purchase Debt
The City borrows money in order to acquire land or equipment or construct buildings and improvements. This enables the cost of these capital assets to be borne by the present and future taxpayers receiving the benefit of the capital assets.
c. Other Long-term Debt
In addition to the above long-term debt, the local government had the following noncurrent liabilities:
Compensated absences represent the value of earned and unused portion of the liability for compensated absences. The liability is liquidated in the General, Special Grant, and Miscellaneous Special Revenue Funds.
Pension obligations represent the supplemental retirement payment for employees under General Municipal Law Section 207a: $296,747; the amortization of the annual retirement system obligation: $2,438,770, and are liquidated in the General Fund. The amortization of the annual retirement system obligation is for ten years at 8%.
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d. Changes in Long-term Liabilities
The following is a summary of changes in long-term liabilities for the year ended December 31, 2014:
2005 Public Improvement 10/2005 10/2019 4.00-5.00% 415,000
2006 Public Improvement 12/2006 12/2017 4.00-4.25% 1,530,000
2008 Public Improvement 05/2008 05/2029 4.000-4.750% 4,966,500
2009 Public Improvement 05/2009 05/2022 4.000-4.250% 1,450,000
2009B Public Improvement 11/2009 11/2019 2.500-4.000% 455,000
2010 Public Improvement 05/2010 05/2024 3.500-4.000% 2,035,000
2011 Public Improvement 09/2011 09/2024 3.125-3.750% 2,200,000
2012 Public Improvement 06/2012 06/2026 0.800-3.000% 1,740,000
2013 Public Improvement 04/2013 07/2027 2.000-2.625% 3,189,400
2014 Public Improvement 04/2014 04/2025 1.000-3.000% 2,543,000
2014 Advance Refunding Bond 03/2014 08/2027 1.500-5.000% 3,610,000
Subtotal Bonds 25,828,900
Add unamortized premium 117,355
Total Bonds $ 25,946,255
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Interest expense on long-term debt is calculated as follows:
Interest paid $ $ 1,007,779Less amortization of deferred charges on defeased debt (8,473)Plus amortization of premium 13,653Less interest accrued at December 31, 2013 (204,055)Add interest accrued at December 31, 2014 269,790
Interest expense $ $ 1,078,694
f. Future Debt Service Requirements
The following tables summarize the City's future debt service requirements as of December 31, 2014:
The Agency borrows money in order to carry out various projects or improvements. This enables the cost of these projects or improvements to be borne by the present and future taxpayers receiving the benefit of the projects or improvements.
2) Changes in Long-term Debt
The following is a summary of changes in long-term debt for the year ended December 31, 2014:
As of December 31, 2014, Installment Bonds, including issue and maturity dates and interest rates, consisted of the following:
Date of Final Interest Payable to
Description of Issue Issue Maturity Rate Maturity
2011 Statutory Installment Bond 05/2011 09/2016 3.250% $ 210,000
Total Serial Bonds $ 210,000
4) Future Debt Service Requirements
The following tables summarize the Agency's future debt service requirements as of December 31, 2014:
Installment Bond
Year Principal Interest
2015 $ 105,000 $ 6,825
2016 105,000 3,412
Total $ 210,000 $ 10,237
Interest expense on long-term debt is calculated as follows:
Interest paid $ $ 10,075Less interest accrued at December 31, 2013 (3,230)Add interest accrued at December 31, 2014 2,188
Interest Expense $ $ 9,033
h. Elmira Water Board Bonds Payable
On November 15, 1994, the New York State Environmental Facilities Corporation issued $4,024,000 of water pollution control serial bonds on behalf of the City of Elmira. The City of Elmira borrowed these funds on behalf of the Water Board. These bonds have varying interest rates and are callable upon certain pre-conditions. The proceeds of these bonds were used to convert a portion of a Bond Anticipation Note issued in conjunction with the water treatment facility upgrade program. All but $2,225,000 was defeased by the issuance of the 2002 serial bonds. On October 1, 2005, the Water Board refinanced the outstanding balance on this issue of $1,595,000 at interest rates varying from 3.365% to 4.865%. The bonds are due in varying principal amounts from 2006 through 2024. The principal and interest of this bond issue are payable first by the Water Board and ultimately backed by the City of Elmira’s general obligation pledge. The balance remaining at December 31, 2014 was $950,000.
CITY OF ELMIRANOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(CONTINUED)FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2014
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On March 26, 1998, the New York State Environmental Facilities Corporation issued $15,544,000 of serial bonds on behalf of the City of Elmira. The City of Elmira borrowed these funds on behalf of the Water Board. These bonds have varying interest rates and are callable upon certain pre-conditions. The proceeds of these bonds were used to advance refund the 1996 bonds and convert a Bond Anticipation Note (BAN). Principal and interest of this bond issue are payable first by the Elmira Water Board and ultimately backed by the City of Elmira’s general obligation pledge. The bonds are due in varying principal amounts from 1999 through 2016. The balance remaining at December 31, 2014 was $1,145,000.
On July 29, 1999, the New York State Environmental Facilities Corporation issued $1,430,000 of serial bonds on behalf of the City of Elmira. The City of Elmira borrowed these funds on behalf of the Water Board. These bonds have varying interest rates and are callable upon certain pre-conditions. The proceeds of these bonds were used to convert a BAN. Principal and interest of this bond issue are payable first by the Elmira Water Board and ultimately backed by the City of Elmira’s general obligation pledge. The bonds are due in varying principal amounts from 2000 through 2016. The balance remaining at December 31, 2014 was $195,000.
On June 20, 2002, the City issued $585,000 of serial bonds to the New York State Environmental Facilities Corporation. The City of Elmira borrowed these funds on behalf of the Elmira Water Board. These bonds have varying interest rates and are callable upon certain pre-conditions. The proceeds of these bonds were used to refinance the 1994 Sewer Improvement Bond. Principal and interest of this bond issue are payable first by the Elmira Water Board and ultimately, backed by the City’s general obligation pledge. The bonds are due in varying principal amounts from 2002 through 2024. The balance remaining at December 31, 2014 was $300,000.
On November 1, 2002, the City issued $2,495,000 public and water improvement serial bonds on behalf of the Elmira Water Board. These bonds have varying interest rates and are callable upon pre-conditions. The proceeds of these bonds were used to refund a BAN. Principal and interest of this bond issue are payable first by the Elmira Water Board and ultimately, backed by the City’s general obligation pledge. The bonds are due in varying principal amounts from 2002 through 2027. The balance remaining at December 31, 2014was $1,600,000.
On September 1, 2003, the City issued $150,000 water improvement serial bonds on behalf of the Elmira Water Board. These bonds have varying interest rates and are callable upon pre-conditions. The proceeds of these bonds were used to purchase capital equipment. Principal and interest of this bond issue are payable first by the Elmira Water Board and ultimately, backed by the City’s general obligation pledge. The bonds are due in varying principal amounts from 2004 through 2019. The balance remaining at December 31, 2014was $55,000.
On May 15, 2008, the City issued $1,495,600 general obligation bonds on behalf of the Elmira Water Board. These bonds have varying interest rates and are callable upon pre-conditions. The proceeds of these bonds were used to convert BANs. Principal and interest of this bond issue are payable first by the Elmira Water Board and ultimately, backed by the City’s general obligation pledge. The bonds are due in varying principal amounts from 2009 through 2029. The balance remaining at December 31, 2014 was $1,218,500.
CITY OF ELMIRANOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(CONTINUED)FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2014
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In 2012, the City issued $500,000 in BANs, payable in June 2013 with an interest rate of 0.91%. During 2013, $478,500 was refinanced with a bond which is payable in annual installments varying from $27,900 to $39,600 through July 2027 with interest varying from 2% to 2.625%. The balance remaining at December 31, 2014 was $450,600.
In 2014, the City issued $500,000 in BANs, payable in May 2015 with an interest rate of 0.98%. The total bond anticipation note balance at December 31, 2014 was $500,000.
The capital lease, collateralized by a vehicle, is for the lease of certain equipment which is included in machinery and equipment on the Balance Sheet at a cost of $150,365. At December 31, 2014, net book value was $123,154, net of accumulated depreciation of $26,851. The capital lease is payable in annual installments varying from $28,406 to $30,906 through November 2017 plus interest at 2.852%. Interest paid on this capital lease for the year ended December 31, 2014 was $3,382. The balance remaining at December 31, 2014 was $90,171.
Defeased Bonds Outstanding
The proceeds of the advance refunding of certain bonds, along with an amount contributed by the New York State Environmental Facilities Corporation, have been placed in escrow accounts with a trust agent. Accordingly, the trust account assets and liabilities for the defeased bonds are not included in Elmira Water Board’s financial statements. Although defeased, the refunded debt will not actually be retired until it is called or has matured. At December 31, 2014 and 2013, the balance of defeased bonds was $1,720,000 and $2,510,000, respectively.
A summary of changes in noncurrent liabilities is as follows:
The City has adopted GASB Statement Number 45 “Accounting and Financial Reporting by Employers for Postemployment Benefits Other Than Pensions.” The actuarial valuation of the City Postretirement Health Care Plans (Plan) performed as of January 1, 2014 for theactuarial valuation for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2014.
Plan Description. The Plan is a single-employer, defined benefit healthcare plan administered by the City. The Plan consists of a self insured minimum premium traditional indemnity plan, a self insured PPO plan, and a community rated Medicare supplemental plan for eligible retirees and dependents. The Plan provides medical, prescription drug, dental, and vision benefits to eligible retirees, spouses, and their covered dependents. Benefit provisions are established through negotiations between the City and bargaining units and are renegotiated each three-year period. The City assigns the authority to establish and amend benefit provisions to the City Council for non-bargaining unit employees. The Plan does not issue a stand-alone financial report.
The contribution requirements of Plan members and the City are established and may be amended by the City Council. The City Council has negotiated several collective bargaining agreements, which include obligations of Plan members and the City. Plan members receiving benefits may be required to contribute to the Plan depending on their collective bargaining unit. The required contribution is based on projected pay-as-you-go financing requirements. For the year ended December 31, 2014, the actuarial valuation used an expected City contribution to the Plan of $1,233,250, which does not include the cost of benefits for currently employed members. For the year ended December 31, 2014, the City contributed $5,595,895 to the Plan for current premiums, which includes vision, dental, and health insurance premiums for both current employees and retirees.
The City’s annual other postemployment benefit (OPEB) cost (expense) is calculated based on the annual required contribution of the employer (ARC), an amount actuarially determined in accordance with the parameters of GASB Statement Number 45. The ARC represents a level of funding that, if paid on an ongoing basis, is projected to cover normal cost each year and accumulate sufficient total accruals for all postretirement benefits when due.
The following table shows the components of the City’s annual OPEB cost for the year, the amount actually contributed to the Plan, and changes in the City’s net OPEB obligation to the City’s Plan:
Annual required contribution $ 3,808,813Interest on net OPEB obligation 577,026Adjustment to annual required contribution (909,743)Total Annual OBEB Cost (Expense) 3,476,096Contributions expected (1,233,250) Increase in Net OPEB Obligation 2,242,846
Net OPEB Obligation - January 1, 2014 14,425,655
Net OPEB Obligation - December 31, 2014 $ 16,668,501
CITY OF ELMIRANOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(CONTINUED)FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2014
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The City’s annual OPEB cost, the percentage of annual OPEB cost contributed to the Plan, and the net OPEB obligation for 2014, 2013 and 2012 are as follows:
Fiscal Year Ended
Annual OPEB Cost
Percentage of Annual OPEB
Cost ContributedNet OPEBObligation
12/31/2014 $ 3,476,096 35.5% $ 16,668,501
12/31/2013 $ 3,429,653 33.5% $ 14,425,655
12/31/2012 $ 3,280,390 35.2% $ 12,143,780
Funded Status and Funding Progress - As of December 31, 2014, the Plan was not funded. The actuarial accrued liability for benefits was $33,650,038; there are no assets legally segregated for the Plan. The covered payroll (annual payroll of active employees covered by the Plan) was $13,083,120 and the ratio of the Unfunded Actuarial Accrued Liability (UAAL) to the covered payroll was 257%.
Actuarial valuations of an ongoing Plan involve estimates of the value of reported amounts and assumptions about the probability of occurrence of events far into the future. Examples include assumptions about future employment, mortality, and healthcare cost trends. Amounts determined regarding funded status of the Plan and annual required contributions of the employer are subject to continual revision as actual results are compared with past expectations and new estimates are made about the future.
Actuarial Methods and Assumptions - Projections of benefits for financial reporting purposes are based on the substantive Plan (the Plan as understood by the employer and the Plan members) and include the types of benefits provided at the time of each valuation and the historical pattern of sharing of benefit costs between the employer and Plan members to that point. The actuarial methods and assumptions used include techniques that are designed to reduce the effects of short-term volatility in actuarial accrued liabilities and the actuarial value of assets, consistent with the long-term perspective of the calculations.
In the January 1, 2014, Actuarial Valuation Report, the projected unit credit method was used. The actuarial value of assets was determined as the accumulation of prior accruals,less benefits paid. Actuarial assumptions included an annual discount rate of 4%. Additional actuarial assumptions included dental and vision trend rates of 2% and an annual medical and prescription blended cost trend rate of 7.0% initially, reduced by decrements for the first 4 years to 6.07%, then ultimately to a rate of 4.29% after 69 years, using the SOA Long-Run Medical Cost Trend Model.
The amortization period of the initial unfunded Actuarial Accrued Liability is 24 years.
b. Elmira Water Board
Based on GASB Statement Number 45, “Accounting and Financial Reporting by Employers for Postemployment Benefits Other Than Pensions” guidelines, an employer with fewer than 200 participants must complete a full actuarial valuation at least triennially. The Elmira Water Board has chosen to do triennial valuations. Therefore, the year ended December 31, 2014 interim valuation was based on the annual required contributions from the January 1, 2012 valuation using a discount rate of 4%.
CITY OF ELMIRANOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(CONTINUED)FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2014
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1) Plan Description
The Elmira Water Board provides medical coverage to eligible employees, retirees and dependents through a community rated high deductible health plan with Excellus Blue Cross Blue Shield. Participants must meet a deductible of $2,250 for individual coverage or $4,500 for two-person or family coverage. After the deductible is met, most inpatient and outpatient services from participating providers are covered at 100% of the allowable expense.
To assist in meeting the deductible, the Elmira Water Board makes contributions into a Health Reimbursement Arrangement (HRA) for each member who enrolls in coverage at an amount no greater than the applicable deductible. If participants do not meet the deductible in the plan year, the remaining cash value is credited back to the Elmira Water Board.
Eligible retirees receive medical coverage from the Elmira Water Board until the retiree attains full Medicare eligibility. The Company contributes 75% of the applicable plan premium until the retiree attains age 60, at which point the Elmira Water Board will provide 100% coverage.
2) Actuarial methods and assumptions
Projections of benefits for financial reporting purposes are based on the Plan as understood by the employer and plan members and include the types of benefits provided at the time of each valuation and the historical pattern of sharing benefits costs between the employer and plan member to that point. The actuarial methods and assumptions used include techniques that are designed to reduce the short-term volatility in actuarial liabilities and the actuarial value of assets, consistent with the long-term perspective of the calculations.
For the year ended December 31, 2014 valuation, the projected unit credit actuarial cost method was used. Under this method, each Participant’s projected benefit is calculated at all possible ages based on the Plan provisions as well as the initial data and actuarial assumptions. The assumptions at December 31, 2012 included an annual healthcare cost trend rate of 7.5% for 2014, decreasing over time to a 5.9% increase in 2022. The rate included a 2.9% inflation assumption and a 85% application rate of HRA funds.
As of December 31, 2014 the Plan was not funded. The actuarial liability for benefits was approximately $1,398,000 for the Elmira Water Board and there were no assets legally separated for the Plan. Pursuant to GASB Statement Number 45, the Elmira Water Board has elected to record this liability over a 30 year period.
CITY OF ELMIRANOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(CONTINUED)FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2014
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The following table shows the components of the Elmira Water Board’s annual OPEB cost for the year, the amount actually contributed to the plan and changes in the Elmira Water Board’s net OPEB obligation:
Annual required contribution $ 176,186Interest on net OPEB obligation 1,991Adjustment to annual required contribution (3,221)Total Annual OBEB Cost (Expense) 174,956Contributions expected (144,693) Increase in OPEB obligation 30,263 Adjustment to OPEB obligation (30,263) Change in OPEB obligation -0-
Net OPEB Obligation - January 1, 2014 92,005
Net OPEB Obligation - December 31, 2014 $ 92,005
Elmira Water Board’s annual OPEB cost, the percentage of annual OPEB cost contributed to the Plan, and the net OPEB obligation for the fiscal year ending December 31, are as follows:
Fiscal Year Ended
Annual OPEB Cost
Percentage of Annual OPEB
Cost ContributedNet OPEBObligation
2014 $ 174,956 82.7% $ 92,005
2013 $ 170,487 81.9% $ 92,005
2012 $ 162,718 92.0% $ 92,005
F. Interfund Activity
Individual fund balances as of December 31, 2014 were as follows:
InterfundReceivables
InterfundPayables
InterfundRevenues
InterfundExpenditures
Governmental Funds:
Major Funds:
General Fund $ 1,148,033 $ 477,149 $ 700,000 $ 3,285,061
Special Grant Fund 4,799 331,627 331,627
Permanent Fund 82,095
Debt Service Fund 3,285,061 1,088
Capital Projects Fund 350,319 700,000 700,000
Non-Major Funds 126,830 227,397 82,095
Total Governmental Funds 1,625,182 1,409,345 4,398,783 4,399,871
Proprietary Fund:
Self-Insurance Fund 215,837 1,088
Total $ 1,625,182 $ 1,625,182 $ 4,399,871 $ 4,399,871
CITY OF ELMIRANOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(CONTINUED)FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2014
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During the course of normal operations, the City has numerous transactions between funds including expenditures and transfers of resources, primarily to provide services, which are routine annual events for the budget and accounting process.
G. Fund Balances
1. Fund Balance Detail
At December 31, 2014, non-spendable, restricted and assigned fund balance in the governmental funds was as follows:
GeneralFund
Special Grant Fund
Permanent Fund
Capital Projects
Fund
Debt Service Fund
Non-majorFunds
Non-SpendablePrepaid expenses $ 769,794 $ $ $ $ $Permanent fund principal 2,403,741
Total Non-Spendable Fund Balance $ 769,794 $ -0- $ 2,403,741 $ -0- $ -0- $ -0-
RestrictedInsurance reserve $ 312,599 $ $ $ $ $Home and community service 623,818Other restricted fund balance 126,830Debt 34,495Capital projects 895,995
Total Restricted Fund Balance $ 312,599 $ 623,818 $ -0- $ 895,995 $ 34,495 $ 126,830
AssignedDesignated for next year’s budget $ 1,353,125 $ $ $ $ $Encumbered for: General support 54,994 Public safety 21,920 Transportation 21,778 Culture and recreation 1,745 Home and community service 88,889
Total Assigned Fund Balance $ 1,542,451 $ -0- $ -0- $ -0- $ -0- $ -0-
2. Reconciliation Between Restricted Fund Balance and Restricted Net Position
Restricted fund balances and restricted net position differ because unspent debt proceeds are reported as restricted fund balance in the fund financial statements and as a portion of invested in capital, net of related debt in the Statement of Net Position.
Restricted fund balance in the fund financial statements $ 1,993,737Less unspent debt proceeds (895,995)
Restricted net position in the government-wide financial statements $ 1,097,742
CITY OF ELMIRANOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(CONTINUED)FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2014
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3. Restricted Fund Balances
Portions of restricted fund balance are restricted and are not available for current expenditures as reported in the Governmental Funds Balance Sheet. Balances and activity for the year ended December 31, 2014 of the General Fund restricted reserves were as follows:
Total Restricted Fund Balance $ 312,599 $ -0- $ -0- $ 312,599
4. Elmira Water Board Restricted Net Assets
Certain net assets are restricted by grantors or by law through the Water Board’s charter. At December 31, 2014 this amount totaled $668,255, and consisted of net assets restricted for the Water System Improvement Fund, System Wide Improvement Fund and Capital Reserve Fund of $68,221, $500,025 and $100,009, respectively.
Note 4 - Judgments and Claims
The City and/or its agencies are named in several other lawsuits, some of which are for substantial amounts. These claims are either adequately covered by insurance through the City's Risk Retention Reserve or, in the opinion of City officials, will not result in material judgments against the City or will not be pursued and, therefore, are not expected to have a material effect on the financial statements. In the past three years, no settlements exceeded insurance coverage.
The City was a member of the Public Entity Trust of New York (PETNY). PETNY became insolvent in 2008. The New York State Worker's Compensation Board did a forensic review of PETNY's operations. Based upon that review, the State Worker's Compensation Board notified the City that it owes PETNY a substantial amount. The City disagrees with the amount and expects the matter may lead to litigation.
In addition, there are several major tax certiorari proceedings presently pending, which may result in financial exposure to the City of up to $225,000.
Note 5 - Summary of Significant Commitments and Contingencies
State and Federally Assisted Programs
The City receives many different state and federal grants to be used for specific purposes. These grants are generally conditioned on compliance with certain statutory, regulatory, and/or contractual requirements. The City makes every effort to comply with all applicable requirements. However, becausethese grants are audited from time to time, it is possible that the City will be required, upon audit, to repay portions of the grant monies received and recorded as revenue in a prior year. City officials do not anticipate material grant-in-aid disallowances, and no provision, therefore, is reflected in the basic financial statements.
Note 6 - Subsequent Events
Subsequent to year-end the City approved the issuance of bonds of $505,845 and $2,430,440 for financing of firefighters past service costs and capital items, respectively.
CITY OF ELMIRANOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(CONTINUED)FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2014
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Note 7 - Impact of Future Standards of the Governmental Accounting Standards Board (GASB)
The City is in the process of assessing the future effects of GASB Statement Number 68, “Accounting and Financial Reporting for Pensions - an amendment of GASB Statement Number 27” to be implemented in 2015.
GASB Statement Number 68 establishes accounting and financial reporting requirements related to pensions for governments whose employees are provided with pensions through certain pension plans. As a participant in a cost-sharing employer plan, the City is required to recognize a liability for its proportionate share of the net pension liability (of all employers for benefits provided through the pension plan) - the collective net pension liability. An employer’s proportion is required to be determined on a basis consistent with the manner in which contributions to the pension plan are determined. A cost-sharing employer is required to recognize pension expense and report deferred outflows of resources and deferred inflows of resources related to pensions for its proportionate shares of collective pension expense and collective deferred outflows of resources and deferred inflows of resources related to pension.
In governmental fund financial statements, the cost-sharing employer’s proportionate share of the collective net pension liability is required to be recognized to the extent the liability is normally expected to be liquidated with expendable available financial resources. Generally, pension expenditures should be recognized equal to the total of (1) amounts paid by the employer to the pension plan and (2) the change between the beginning and ending balances of amounts normally expected to be liquidated with expendable available financial resources.
See Independent Auditor's Report and Notes to Required Supplementary Information
CITY OF ELMIRANOTES TO REQUIRED SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION
FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2014
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Note 1 - Budgetary Data
A. Budget Policies - The budget policies are as follows:
1. No later than November 15, the City Manager submits a tentative budget to the Common Council for the fiscal year commencing the following January 1. The tentative budget includes proposed expenditures and the proposed means of financing for all funds, except for the Special Grant, Agency, and Risk Retention Funds.
2. After public hearings are conducted to obtain taxpayer comments, no later than the first meeting in March, the Common Council adopts the budget.
3. All modifications of the budget must be approved by the Common Council.
4. Budgetary controls are established for the Capital Projects and Special Grant funds through resolutions authorizing individual projects, which remain in effect for the life of the project.
B. Encumbrances
Encumbrance accounting, under which purchase orders, contracts, and other commitments for the expenditure of monies are recorded for budgetary control purposes to reserve that portion of the applicable appropriations, is employed in the Governmental Funds. Encumbrances are reported as reservations of fund balances, as they do not constitute expenditures or liabilities. Expenditures for such commitments are recorded in the period in which the liability is incurred.
C. Budget Basis of Accounting
Except as indicated below, budgets are adopted annually on a basis consistent with generally accepted accounting principles. Appropriations authorized for the current year are increased by the amount of encumbrances carried forward from the prior year. Budgetary controls for the Special Grant Fund are established in accordance with the applicable grant agreement, which covers a period other than the City's fiscal year.
Note 2 - Reconciliation of the General Fund Budget Basis to GAAP
No adjustment is necessary to convert the General Fund’s excess of revenues and other sources over expenditures and other uses on the GAAP basis to the budget basis, as encumbrances are presented in a separate column and are not included in the actual results at December 31, 2014.
Note 3 - General Fund Budgetary Overexpenditures
The General Fund appropriations were overexpended by $318,644 in public safety primarily due to fire protection personal services exceeding budgetary estimates and by $1,156,502 in employee benefits due tohealthcare expenses exceeding budgetary estimates.
Note 4 - Special Grant Fund
The Special Grant Fund does not have a legally adopted budget. The budget is based on grant contracts.
Note 5 - Schedule of Funding Progress
The Schedule of Funding Progress, presented as required supplementary information, presents multi-year trend information about whether the actuarial value of Plan assets is increasing or decreasing over time relative to the actuarial accrued liabilities for benefits.
CORTLAND ITHACA WATKINS GLEN
John H. Dietershagen, C.P.A.Jerry E. Mickelson, C.P.A.Thomas K. Van Derzee, C.P.A.Debbie Conley Jordan, C.P.A.Patrick S. Jordan, C.P.A.Duane R. Shoen, C.P.A.Lesley L. Horner, C.P.A.D. Leslie Spurgin, C.P.A.
Frederick J. Ciaschi, C.P.A.
Certified Public Accountants and Consultants
Ciaschi Dietershagen Little Mickelson & Company, LLP
39 Church StreetCortland, New York 13045
607-753-7439fax 607-753-7874
2 North Franklin Street, Suite 330Watkins Glen, New York 14891
607-535-4443fax 607-535-6220
401 East State Street ~ Suite 500Ithaca, New York 14850
607-272-4444fax 607-273-8372www.cdlm.com
INDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT ON INTERNAL CONTROL OVER FINANCIAL REPORTING AND COMPLIANCE
AND OTHER MATTERS BASED ON AN AUDIT OF FINANCIAL STATEMENTS PERFORMED INACCORDANCE WITH GOVERNMENT AUDITING STANDARDS
Mayor and Members of the City CouncilCity of ElmiraElmira, New York
We have audited, in accordance with the auditing standards generally accepted in the United States of America and the standards applicable to financial audits contained in Government Auditing Standards, issued by the Comptroller General of the United States, the financial statements of the governmental activities, the Elmira Urban Renewal Agency discretely presented component unit, each major fund, and the aggregate remaining fund information of the City of Elmira (the City) as of and for the year ended December 31, 2014, and the related notes to the financial statements, which collectively comprise the City’s basic financial statements, and have issued our report thereon dated May 6, 2015.
Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
In planning and performing our audit of the financial statements, we considered the City’s internal control over financial reporting (internal control) to determine the audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances for the purpose of expressing our opinions on the financial statements, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the City’s internal control. Accordingly, we do not express an opinion on the effectiveness of the City’s internal control.
A deficiency in internal control exists when the design or operation of a control does not allow management or employees, in the normal course of performing their assigned functions, to prevent, or detect and correct misstatements on a timely basis. A material weakness is a deficiency, or a combination of deficiencies, in internal control such that there is a reasonable possibility that a material misstatement of the entity’s financial statements will not be prevented, or detected and corrected on a timely basis. A significant deficiency is a deficiency, or a combination of deficiencies, in internal control that is less severe than a material weakness, yet important enough to merit attention by those charged with governance.
Our consideration of internal control was for the limited purpose described in the first paragraph of this section and was not designed to identify all deficiencies in internal control that might be material weaknesses orsignificant deficiencies. Given these limitations, during our audit we did not identify an deficiencies in internal control that we consider to be material weaknesses. However, material weaknesses may exist that have not been identified.
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Compliance and Other Matters
As part of obtaining reasonable assurance about whether the City’s financial statements are free of material misstatement, we performed tests of its compliance with certain provisions of laws, regulations, contracts, and grant agreements, noncompliance with which could have a direct and material effect on the determination of financial statement amounts. However, providing an opinion on compliance with those provisions was not an objective of our audit, and accordingly, we do not express such an opinion. The results of our tests disclosed no instances of noncompliance or other matters that are required to be reported under Government Auditing Standards.
Purpose of this Report
This report is solely to describe the scope of our testing of internal control and compliance and the results of that testing, and not to provide an opinion on the effectiveness of the City’s internal control or on compliance. This report is an integral part of an audit performed in accordance with Government Auditing Standards in considering the City’s internal control and compliance. Accordingly, this communication is not suitable for any other purpose.
May 6, 2015Ithaca, New York
CORTLAND ITHACA WATKINS GLEN
John H. Dietershagen, C.P.A.Jerry E. Mickelson, C.P.A.Thomas K. Van Derzee, C.P.A.Debbie Conley Jordan, C.P.A.Patrick S. Jordan, C.P.A.Duane R. Shoen, C.P.A.Lesley L. Horner, C.P.A.D. Leslie Spurgin, C.P.A.
Frederick J. Ciaschi, C.P.A.
Certified Public Accountants and Consultants
Ciaschi Dietershagen Little Mickelson & Company, LLP
39 Church StreetCortland, New York 13045
607-753-7439fax 607-753-7874
2 North Franklin Street, Suite 330Watkins Glen, New York 14891
607-535-4443fax 607-535-6220
401 East State Street ~ Suite 500Ithaca, New York 14850
607-272-4444fax 607-273-8372www.cdlm.com
INDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT ON COMPLIANCE FOR EACH MAJOR PROGRAM AND ONINTERNAL CONTROL OVER COMPLIANCE REQUIRED BY OMB CIRCULAR A-133
Mayor and Members of the City CouncilCity of ElmiraElmira, New York
Report on Compliance for Each Major Federal Program
We have audited the City of Elmira’s (the City) compliance with the types of compliance requirements described in the U.S. Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Circular A-133 Compliance Supplement that could have a direct and material effect on each of the City’s major federal programs for the year ended December 31, 2014. The City’s major federal programs are identified in the summary of auditor’s results section of the accompanying schedule of findings and questioned costs.
Management’s Responsibility
Management is responsible for compliance with the requirements of laws, regulations, contracts, and grants applicable to federal programs.
Auditor’s Responsibility
Our responsibility is to express an opinion on compliance for each of the City’s major federal programs based on our audit of the types of compliance requirements referred to above. We conducted our audit of compliance in accordance with auditing standards generally accepted in the United States of America; the standards applicable to financial audits contained in Government Auditing Standards, issued by the Comptroller General of the United States; and OMB Circular A-133, Audits of States, Local Governments, and Non-Profit Organizations. Those standards and OMB Circular A-133 require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether noncompliance with the types of compliance requirements referred to above that could have a direct and material effect on a major federal program occurred. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence about the City’s compliance with those requirements and performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances.
We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion on compliance for each major federal program. However, our audit does not provide a legal determination of the City’s compliance.
Opinion on Each Major Federal Program
In our opinion, the City complied, in all material respects, with the types of compliance requirements referred to above that could have a direct and material effect on each of its major federal programs for the year ended December 31, 2014.
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Report on Internal Control Over Compliance
Management of the City is responsible for establishing and maintaining effective internal control over compliance with the types of compliance requirements referred to above. In planning and performing our auditof compliance, we considered the City’s internal control over compliance with the types of requirements that could have a direct and material effect on a major federal program to determine the auditing procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances for the purpose of expressing an opinion on compliance for each major federal program and to test and report on internal control over compliance in accordance with OMB Circular A-133, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of internal control over compliance. Accordingly, we do not express an opinion on the effectiveness of the City’s internal control over compliance.
A deficiency in internal control over compliance exists when the design or operation of a control over compliance does not allow management or employees, in the normal course of performing their assigned functions, to prevent, or detect and correct noncompliance with a type of compliance requirement of a federal program on a timely basis. A material weakness in internal control over compliance is a deficiency, or a combination of deficiencies, in internal control over compliance, such that there is a reasonable possibility that material noncompliance with a type of compliance requirement of a federal program will not be prevented, or detected and corrected on a timely basis. A significant deficiency in internal control over compliance is a deficiency, or combination of deficiencies, in internal control over compliance with a type of compliance requirement of a federal program that is less severe than a material weakness in internal control over compliance, yet is important enough to merit attention by those charged with governance.
Our consideration of internal control over compliance was for the limited purpose described in the first paragraph of this section and was not designed to identify all deficiencies in internal control over compliancethat might be material weaknesses or significant deficiencies. We did not identify any deficiencies in internal control over compliance that we consider to be material weaknesses. However, material weaknesses may exist that have not been identified.
The purpose of this report on internal control over compliance is solely to describe the scope of our testing of internal control over compliance and the results of that testing based on the requirements of OMB Circular A-133. Accordingly, this report is not suitable for any other purpose.
May 6, 2015Ithaca, New York
CITY OF ELMIRASCHEDULE OF EXPENDITURES OF FEDERAL AWARDS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2014
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Federal Grantor/Pass - Through Federal Pass - Through
Grantor Program Title CFDA # Grantor No. Expenditures
U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development
Community Development Block Grants/Entitlement Grants 14.218 N/A $ 1,079,407
HOME Investment Partnerships Programs 14.239 N/A 240,912
Total U.S. Department of Housing
and Urban Development 1,320,319
U.S. Department of Homeland Security
Staffing for Adequate Fire and
Emergency Response (SAFER) 97.044 N/A 337,631
Passed Through NYS Division of Homeland Security
and Emergency Services:
Homeland Security Grant Program 97.067 C836580 17,475
Total U.S. Department of Homeland Security 355,106
U.S. Department of Transportation
Passed Through NYS Department of Transportation:
Highway Planning and Construction 20.205 D031545 119,922
Highway Planning and Construction 20.205 D033962 4,198
Highway Planning and Construction 20.205 D031966 122,617
Highway Planning and Construction 20.205 D034601 1,238,471
Highway Planning and Construction 20.205 none 94,500
Total Highway Planning and Construction 1,579,708
Total U.S. Department of Transportation 1,579,708
Total Expenditures of Federal Awards $ 3,255,133
N/A - Indicates Direct Award
See Independent Auditor’s Report and Notes to Schedule of Expenditures of Federal Awards
CITY OF ELMIRANOTES TO SCHEDULE OF EXPENDITURES OF FEDERAL AWARDS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2014
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Note 1 - Basis of Presentation
The accompanying Schedule of Expenditures of Federal Awards presents the activity of all federal awards programs administered by the City of Elmira (the City), an entity as defined in Note 1 to the City's basic financial statements. Federal awards received directly from federal agencies, as well as federal awards passed through from other government agencies, are included on the Schedule of Expenditures of Federal Awards.
Note 2 - Basis of Accounting
The basis of accounting varies by federal program consistent with the underlying regulations pertaining to each program.
The amounts reported as federal expenditures generally were obtained from the appropriate federal financial reports for the applicable program and periods. The amounts reported in these federal financial reports are prepared from records maintained for each program. These records are periodically reconciled to the general ledger which is the source of the basic financial statements.
Note 3 - Major Program Determination
The City has determined that all federal programs with expenditures of $300,000 or more are type A programs. For the year ended December 31, 2014, the City has three type A programs, one of which is deemed a major program for the purpose of the Schedule of Expenditures of Federal Awards.
Note 4 - Indirect Costs
Indirect costs are included in the reported expenditures to the extent they are included in the federal financial reports used as the source for the data presented.
Note 5 - Matching Costs
Matching costs, i.e., the City's share of certain program costs, are not included in the reported expenditures.
Note 6 - Expenditures of Federal Revenue
The City operates a revolving loan program utilizing federal financial assistance received under current and prior Community Development Block Grants (CDBG) and prior Home Investment Partnership Programs (HOME). Loans outstanding at December 31, 2014 under these programs, reported as part of loans receivable in the City's basic financial statements, are as follows:
Loans Receivable - CDBG $ 1,896,674
Loans Receivable - HOME 1,581,935
Total Loans Receivable 3,478,609
Less: Allowance for Uncollectible Accounts (-0-)
Net Loans Receivable $ 3,478,609
CITY OF ELMIRANOTES TO SCHEDULE OF EXPENDITURES OF FEDERAL AWARDS
(CONTINUED)FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2014
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Note 7 - Other Disclosures
Insurance is carried to cover vehicles purchased with Federal funds. Other equipment purchased with Federal funds has only a nominal value, and is covered by the City’s casualty insurance policies. There was no noncash assistance provided to the City.
CITY OF ELMIRASCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2014
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Section I - Summary of Auditor’s Results
Financial Statements
Type of auditor’s report issued: Unmodified
Internal control over financial reporting:
Material weakness(es) identified? yes √ no
Significant deficiency(ies) identified that are not considered to be material weakness(es)? yes √ none reported
Noncompliance material to financial statements noted? yes √ no
Federal Awards
Internal control over major programs:
Material weakness(es) identified? yes √ no
Significant deficiency(ies) identified that are not considered to be material weakness(es)? yes √ none reported
Type of auditor’s report issued on compliance for major programs: Unmodified
Any audit findings disclosed that are required to be reported in accordance with Section 510(a) of Circular A-133? yes √ no
Identification of major programs:
CFDA Numbers Name of Federal Program or Cluster
14.218 Community Development Block Grants-Entitlement Grants
Dollar threshold used to distinguish between type A and type B programs: $300,000
Auditee qualified as low-risk auditee: √ yes no
Section II - Financial Statement Findings: None
Section III - Federal Award Findings and Questioned Costs: None
APPENDIX – F
FORM OF BOND COUNSEL’S OPINION
June 10, 2016
City of Elmira, Chemung County
State of New York
Re: City of Elmira, Chemung County, New York
$4,000,000 Revenue Anticipation Notes, 2016
Ladies and Gentlemen:
We have been requested to render our opinion as to the validity of a $4,000,000 Revenue Anticipation Notes, 2016 (the
"Obligation"), of the City of Elmira, Chemung County, New York (the "Obligor"), dated June 10, 2016, numbered __, of the
denomination of $4,000,000, bearing interest at the rate of ___% per annum, payable at maturity, and maturing May 26, 2017.
We have examined:
(1) the Constitution and statutes of the State of New York;
(2) the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, including particularly Sections 103 and 141 through 150 thereof, and the
applicable regulations of the United States Treasury Department promulgated thereunder (collectively, the "Code");
(3) an arbitrage certificate executed on behalf of the Obligor which includes, among other things, covenants, relating
to compliance with the Code, with the owners of the Obligation that the Obligor will, among other things, (i) take all actions on its
part necessary to cause interest on the Obligation not to be includable in the gross income of the owners thereof for Federal income
tax purposes, including, without limitation, restricting, to the extent necessary, the yield on investments made with the proceeds of
the Obligation and investment earnings thereon, making required payments to the Federal government, if any, and maintaining
books and records in a specified manner, where appropriate, and (ii) refrain from taking any action which would cause interest on
the Obligation to be includable in the gross income of the owners thereof for Federal income tax purposes, including, without
limitation, refraining from spending the proceeds of the Obligation and investment earnings thereon on certain specified purposes
(the “Arbitrage Certificate”); and
(4) a certificate executed on behalf of the Obligor which includes, among other things, a statement that compliance
with such covenants is not prohibited by, or violative of, any provision of local or special law, regulation or resolution applicable
to the Obligor.
We also have examined a certified copy of proceedings of the finance board of the Obligor and other proofs authorizing
and relating to the issuance of the Obligation, including the form of the Obligation. In rendering the opinions expressed herein we
have assumed the accuracy and truthfulness of all public records, documents and proceedings, including factual information,
expectations and statements contained therein, examined by us which have been executed or certified by public officials acting
within the scope of their official capacities, and have not verified the accuracy or truthfulness thereof. We also have assumed the
genuineness of the signatures appearing upon such public records, documents and proceedings and the certifications thereof.
In our opinion:
(a) The Obligation has been authorized and issued in accordance with the Constitution and statutes of the State of New York and
constitutes a valid and legally binding general obligation of the Obligor, all the taxable real property within which is subject to
the levy of ad valorem taxes to pay the Obligation and interest thereon, subject to applicable statutory limitations; provided,
however, that the enforceability (but not the validity) of the Obligation: (i) may be limited by any applicable bankruptcy,
insolvency or other law now existing or hereafter enacted by said State or the Federal government affecting the enforcement of
creditors' rights, and (ii) may be subject to the exercise of judicial discretion in appropriate cases.
(b) The Obligor has the power to comply with its covenants with respect to compliance with the Code as such covenants relate to
the Obligation; provided, however, that the enforceability (but not the validity) of such covenants may be limited by any
applicable bankruptcy, insolvency or other law now existing or hereafter enacted by said State or the Federal government
affecting the enforcement of creditors' rights.
(c) Interest on the Obligation is excluded from gross income for federal income tax purposes under Section 103 of the Internal
Revenue Code of 1986, and is exempt from personal income taxes imposed by the State of New York and any political
subdivision thereof (including The City of New York). Interest on the Obligation is not a specific preference item for purposes
of the federal individual or corporate alternative minimum taxes, although it is included in adjusted current earnings when
calculating corporate alternative minimum taxable income. We express no opinion regarding other tax consequences related to
the ownership or disposition of, or the amount, accrual or receipt of interest on, the Obligation.
Certain agreements, requirements and procedures contained or referred to in the Arbitrage Certificate and other relevant
documents may be changed and certain actions (including, without limitation, economic defeasance of the Obligation) may be
taken or omitted under the circumstances and subject to the terms and conditions set forth in such documents.
The opinions expressed herein are based on an analysis of existing laws, regulations, rulings and court decisions and
cover certain matters not directly addressed by such authorities. Such opinions may be affected by actions taken or omitted or
events occurring after the date hereof. Accordingly, this opinion is not intended to, and may not, be relied upon in connection with
any such actions, events or matters. Our engagement with respect to the Obligation has concluded with their issuance, and we
disclaim any obligation to update this opinion. We have assumed, without undertaking to verify, the accuracy of the factual
matters represented, warranted or certified in the documents. Furthermore, we have assumed compliance with all covenants and
agreements contained in the Arbitrage Certificate, including without limitation covenants and agreements compliance with which
is necessary to assure that future actions, omissions or events will not cause interest on the Obligation to be included in gross
income for federal income tax purposes. We call attention to the fact that the rights and obligations under the Obligation and the
Arbitrage Certificate and their enforceability may be subject to bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization, arrangement, fraudulent
conveyance, moratorium or other laws relating to or affecting creditors’ rights, to the application of equitable principles, to the
exercise of judicial discretion in appropriate cases and to the limitations on legal remedies against municipal corporations such as
the Obligor in the State of New York. We express no opinion with respect to any indemnification, contribution, penalty, choice of
law, choice of forum, choice of venue, or waiver provisions contained in the foregoing documents.
The scope of our engagement in relation to the issuance of the Obligations has extended solely to the
examination of the facts and law incident to rendering the opinions expressed herein. Such opinions are not intended and should
not be construed to express or imply any conclusion that the amount of real property subject to taxation within the boundaries of
the Obligor, together with other legally available sources of revenue, if any, will be sufficient to enable the Obligor to pay the
principal of or interest on the Obligations as the same respectively become due and payable. Reference should be made to the
Official Statement prepared by the Obligor in relation to the Obligations for factual information which, in the judgment of the
Obligor, could materially affect the ability of the Obligor to pay such principal and interest. While we have participated in the
preparation of such Official Statement, we have not verified the accuracy, completeness or fairness of the factual information
contained therein and, accordingly, we express no opinion as to whether the Obligor, in connection with the sale of the
Obligations, has made any untrue statement of a material fact or omitted to state a material fact necessary in order to make any
statements made, in the light of the circumstances under which they were made, not misleading.