Resolution Proposal by GPET
In a bid to enhance accountability, simplify the application process, and clarify expectations, the City of Sheridan has proposed updates to its General Purpose Excise Tax (GPET) Funds application process for Fiscal Year 2026.
The proposed changes, discussed at the City Council study session in late July 2025, aim to set clearer expectations for recipients and the City regarding the use and management of funds. The amended process also seeks to streamline the application timeline to avoid duplication and better guide local nonprofits through the funding process.
Despite these changes, it is important to note that the eligibility criteria remain unchanged. Only nonprofit and governmental organisations remain eligible to apply for the GPET funds. Furthermore, the resolution does not alter funding levels or the City’s adopted budget.
City Clerk Ashlee Foster confirmed that there are no changes to the GPET application process as discussed in the resolution. Her involvement in the discussion pertained to the eligibility and funding aspects of the GPET.
The amended process, which was first adopted in 2020, also aims to reduce redundancy across policy documents to make the process clearer and more straightforward for applicants.
These updates reflect the City's goal to keep the funding process both transparent and efficient, enhancing fiscal responsibility and clarity for applicants while maintaining the same funding structure.
The City Council is expected to make a decision on the potential consideration of the resolution at the August 4 business meeting.
During the Fiscal Year 2026 application cycle, staff recognized a need to simplify the timeline and reduce redundancy. The resolution does not introduce any changes to the GPET application process timeline.
The City of Sheridan General Purpose Excise Tax Funds application process remains restricted to non-profit and governmental organisations. The resolution does not affect the number of funds available for distribution.
The City's adopted budget remains unaffected by the resolution. The resolution was designed to address the needs identified during the Fiscal Year 2026 application cycle and was discussed at Monday night's City Council study session.
In summary, the City of Sheridan is making strides to improve the GPET application process for Fiscal Year 2026, focusing on accountability, simplifying the timeline, and clarifying expectations, without altering eligibility criteria or funding levels.
The City Council is deliberating over the proposed updates to the General Purpose Excise Tax (GPET) Funds application process for Fiscal Year 2026, which include setting clearer financial expectations and streamlining the application process to better guide local nonprofits. Despite these changes, only nonprofit and governmental organizations remain eligible to apply for the GPET funds.
