Jerome Chestnut

The board addressed administrative matters, specifically the adoption of Ordinance 26-299 concerning the StRAP Grant Budget Amendment. Furthermore, the board approved Ordinance 26-300, which finalized the adoption of the amended budget for the 2025-2026 fiscal year in the amount of $4,974,511.

The Board of Commissioners conducted public hearings regarding the contiguous voluntary annexation of the Reserve apartment site and the proposed Fiscal Year 2026-2027 Budget. The board formally adopted an ordinance for the annexation of the apartment site. Regarding the budget, the board opted to table the approval of the fee schedule and budget ordinance to schedule a special workshop for further review. Additionally, consent agenda items including water write-offs were adopted.

The meeting included an executive session to discuss personnel matters and consult with the town attorney regarding attorney-client privilege. The Board adopted Ordinance 26-298, which established the Fiscal Year 2026-2027 budget and fee schedule. Key financial details of the approved budget include a 2.5% cost of living pay raise for employees, adjustments to sanitation, water, and sewer base rates, an increase in the utility late fee to $15, and an increase in the non-payment fee to $40.

The board discussed the proposed fiscal year 2026-2027 budget, which includes utility rate increases and a 2.5% salary increase for town employees. Details were provided regarding the General Fund, including sanitation rate adjustments and the transfer of part-time employees. Extensive data was reviewed for the Water and Sewer funds, covering increases in late fees, non-payment fees, base rates, and tiered step rates, along with adjustments to minimum gallon requirements and billing for nonprofit accounts.

The board discussed the proposed fiscal year 2026-2027 budget totaling $4,789,155, which encompasses the General Fund, Powell Bill Fund, and Water/Sewer Fund. Key discussion points included maintaining current tax rates and service levels, the status of sanitation costs, the allocation of funds from the general fund balance, and the potential future regionalization of water and sewer systems. Additionally, the board considered the impact of property foreclosures on code enforcement, the development of a new youth center, and capital equipment needs such as fire and sewer trucks.