Hutto is in a strong financial position, according to an annual report commissioned by the city. At a March 19 meeting of Hutto City Council, Steve Niemeier, an accountant with city-hired firm Brockway, Gerbach, Franklin and Niemeier, said the city's economy and revenue streams are growing. Niemeier said the city's 2014 sales tax revenue increased by 7.2 percent and property values increased by 8 percent over both totals in the 2013 fiscal year. He said city expenses have also been increasing in recent years, most notably in water services in 2011 because of the drought. However, city revenue is keeping pace with expenses, he said. "Overall the city of Hutto is doing exceptionally well and seeing lots of growth in the economy," Niemeier said. He said for a city the size of Hutto, completing an annual review was "a big undertaking." He said for the past eight years the city has received a certificate of achievement for excellence in financial reporting. “[The certificate is important] since this is how the financial world knows you it affects your bond ratings," he said.