Finance

The Finance Department is committed to delivering efficient, high-quality service in a professional manner to all customers, whether city residents, local businesses, or internal departments within the City of Bridgeport.

Our operations are guided by standards set by the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA), West Virginia state law, and the Bridgeport Municipal Code. The department oversees three primary areas of financial activity:

• General Governmental Financial Operations
• Utility Billing and Cash Collections
• Business Tax and Licensing

General Governmental Financial Operations
This team handles budgeting, purchasing, accounts payable, payroll, and grant management. Budgets for the general fund, excess levy, sales and use tax, water, sewer, and cemetery funds are approved by Bridgeport City Council and managed through a purchase order system. In line with city policy, vendors are paid within 30 days of invoice approval. Staff also manage a variety of city grants.

Business Tax and Licensing
This division assists businesses in obtaining city licenses and ensures proper filing and payment of business and occupation taxes based on gross income from operations within the city. It also collects ambulance fees and the hotel/motel service fee. Currently, 2,170 businesses are licensed and file taxes with the city. Quarterly tax returns are due within 30 days of each quarter’s end.

Utility Billing and Cash Collections
This team manages billing and collection services for approximately 5,350 accounts. Monthly bills are issued for water, sewer, and fire protection fees.

For more information about budgets, utility setup, licensing, taxes, and related services, please explore the appropriate links provided.

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Budget

The City of Bridgeport's budget is a key tool that reflects the City’s policies, goals, and priorities. It outlines how resources are allocated—including funding for staffing, equipment, and programs—and serves as a roadmap for the upcoming fiscal year.

The budget not only guides internal operations but also keeps residents informed about how public funds are being used. It provides a transparent action plan that aligns with the City's strategic vision.

Budget discussions typically begin in February, when City administration meets with City Council to review and plan for the next fiscal year. Community members are encouraged to attend public budget meetings. The budget is approved in the month of March. Please refer to the City’s agendas for meeting dates and details.

View Budget Documents

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FAQ

Who needs a Business License? Bridgeport City Council passed an ordinance effective July 1, 2009 which charges the type of license required to do a business in Bridgeport under the new ordinance. All person(s) performing construction activities, furnishes real property for lease or rent for any purpose, and/or conducts activity for income are required to obtain a Municipal Registration Certificate.  How do I get a Business License? In order to conduct business in the municipal limits of the City of Bridgeport, you must first contact the Tax & Licensing Division to obtain a Municipal Registration Certificate.  How do I sign up for water & sewer service? Information regarding Water & Sewer Services may be found here. For more information please call 304-842-8220. Is there a charge if my service was disconnected? When service has been disconnected for non-payment of bills a disconnection fee of $25.00 shall be charged; or in the event the delinquent bill is collected by the city in the field, an administrative fee of $25.00 shall be charged. A $25.00 reconnection fee will be assessed for each occurrence where service to customers is restored, after service has been terminated for non-payment of bills. Reconnection after hours (Monday-Friday after 4pm, anytime on holidays and weekends) an additional $25.00 fee shall apply. Who do I contact when I have a question about my Ambulance Bill?  For more information, please contact Rebecca Deem at 304-842-8253. What forms of payment do you accept? We accept, cash, check, money order, card transactions, and online payments (Utility Payments only). Please note payment with a card or online will include a transaction fee.

Staff / Hours of Operation

Finance Director: Sharon Hinkle
Assistant Finance Director: Kathy Yost 
Tax & Licensing Manager: Becky Deem 
Utility Billing Manager: Amy Kelley

Office Hours:

Monday-Friday 7:30 A.M. - 4 P.M.

515 W. Main Street
Bridgeport, West Virginia 26330

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