City of Mesa
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Overview
When the City identifies the need to construct a capital project, issuing debt to finance a project may be the best method for the following reasons:
- avoids the depletion of City reserves
- allows the cost of the project to be spread over future years so that residents pay for the infrastructure that they are using
- allows projects to be built sooner so that residents receive the benefit when needed
Issuing bonds or obligations is the most common method for the City to finance a project. After the City receives voter authorization (if necessary) and is ready to proceed with a capital project, the City issues (sells) bonds or obligations. Each year, the City also retires (pays off) a portion of debt issued in prior years.
As of July 1, 2023 the City’s total outstanding bond debt was $1.6 billion. For more information, visit the City of Mesa Data Portal on Bonds and Debt Service.
Debt Service
The outstanding debt balance is paid back over time through annual principal and semi-annual interest payments (debt service). When debt is issued, it obligates the City to make regular payments for periods of up to 30 years. The City’s goal is to have consistent debt service payments, creating a stable financial environment for providing sustainable services to residents.
The FY 2023/24 budget for existing debt service is $ X million, representing Y% of the City’s operating budget.