During a recent government meeting, officials discussed several key budgetary adjustments impacting the municipal courts and planning departments.

The Socorro Municipal Court is set to implement a new software system, Adcomp, to facilitate online payments, costing $3,600 annually. Additionally, waterproof windows will be installed at a cost of $8,000. A significant proposal includes a $20,000 increase in the judge's contract, raising the total budget impact for the department to $31,600. The current judge, who has not seen a salary adjustment since 2013, works two days a week and is called in as needed. The proposed salary increase would elevate the judge's annual contract from $40,000 to $60,000.

Concerns were raised regarding the lack of a salary analysis for the judge's position, prompting officials to consider conducting one to ensure competitive compensation. The judge's contract is up for renewal in September, and discussions are ongoing about the appropriate compensation based on the services provided.

In the planning and zoning department, a proposed salary adjustment of $15,000 for the director role was discussed, alongside a request to hire an additional planner at a cost of $80,991, including benefits. This would bring the total impact for the planning department to $95,991. The need for an additional planner stems from an increased workload and the growing demands of the city, which has seen a rise in court enforcement and police action.

Officials acknowledged the current staffing challenges, noting that the existing planners are overwhelmed with applications, leading to delays in processing. There was a consensus on the importance of investing in staff training and promoting from within to enhance departmental efficiency and service delivery.

As the meeting progressed, the focus shifted to health contract changes, indicating ongoing discussions about budgetary allocations across various departments.