During a recent government meeting, officials addressed several key financial issues impacting the local budget, notably a significant increase in medical insurance costs and proposed salary adjustments for the law director.

The meeting revealed a staggering 30.8% rise in medical insurance premiums, which all departments will need to accommodate. To mitigate this impact, officials discussed strategies such as shifting employees to spousal benefits, which could yield cost savings. The administration expressed hope for a reduction in overall medical expenses in the future.

Additionally, the law director has not received a salary increase in four years, prompting a request for a $25 hourly rate increase. This adjustment is seen as necessary to ensure fair compensation for the director's services.

The meeting also highlighted ongoing infrastructure projects, including the Delhi Pike improvements, which are supported by a $3.4 million grant from ODOT. A local match of up to $700,000 is required, with planning funding transitioning to engineering costs in the upcoming year.

Other financial discussions included adjustments to training budgets and the potential leasing of the old administration building, now referred to as 934 Neeb, which could generate additional revenue for the general fund.

Lastly, officials noted the need for a medical contingency fund to cover anticipated increases in medical expenses for police and fire departments, aiming to avoid early renewal of levies that would require community approval.

Overall, the meeting underscored the financial challenges facing local government while outlining proactive measures to manage costs and improve services.