Jeff C. Johnston

The committee held a discussion regarding financial performance and future projections, including an analysis of fund balances and the scope of discretionary versus necessary work. The meeting featured a presentation of the Fiscal Year 2026 third-quarter budget update, detailing revenue and expenditure trends. Additionally, the committee reviewed the draft budget for Fiscal Year 2027 and subsequently voted to forward the draft budget to the full Board for consideration.

The board meeting agenda focused on key financial and policy updates, including the review of the draft FY2027 budget and proposed updates to the IT policies in the Policy and Procedures Manual. The directors received updates from executive, compliance, air monitoring, communications, and financial services management regarding ongoing agency projects, wildfire season coordination, and operational improvements. Additionally, the board planned for the upcoming budget adoption process and reviewed agency expenditures, disbursements, and fund management strategies.

The committee reviewed the reconciled third-quarter financial statements for fiscal year 2026, noting a year-to-date net gain and discussing revenue sources and expenditure utilization rates. The discussion included a review of the draft fiscal year 2027 budget, with a detailed breakdown of average employee costs and comparisons to industry standards. Furthermore, the committee evaluated the rise in agency costs relative to the Consumer Price Index and discussed the potential establishment of a legal contingency fund to manage future legal expenses.

The board meeting included updates regarding staffing transitions in the legal department, a chair report covering a presentation on the budget and fee increases, and recognition of a long-term employee's tenure. Discussions were held on the board agenda planner, specifically regarding adjustments to meeting schedules for August, June, and July, and the briefing timeline for rule updates. Additionally, a comprehensive presentation was delivered on the fiscal year 2027 operating budget, detailing projected revenue, expenditures, fund allocations, and financial challenges related to grants and building occupancy rates.

The Finance Committee discussed the fiscal year 2027 draft budget, including projected revenues and expenses, the impact of reduced federal and state grant funding, and the use of contingency funds. Key topics included updates on agency financial performance, the reduction of maintenance positions, database development, and improvements to air quality programs and office infrastructure. The committee also reviewed reports on agency efficiencies, revenue sources, and planned capital expenditures.