Cedar Woolly Council passes 2025 budget amendment excluding HR manager and IT specialist

During the Sedro-Woolley City Council meeting on May 28, 2025, council members engaged in a significant discussion regarding the approval of the 2025 budget amendment number 1, which ultimately passed with notable exclusions. The council voted to approve the budget amendment, identified as ordinance 209,825, but decided to remove three key positions: the Human Resources (HR) manager, the IT specialist, and a workstation support role.

The decision to exclude the HR manager was particularly contentious, as previous attempts to include this position had failed due to a split vote among council members. The council acknowledged that while the HR position was not included in the current budget, it could be revisited in future meetings when all council members are present to ensure a comprehensive discussion.

City staff emphasized the importance of passing the budget amendment to facilitate ongoing projects, such as developments in Olmstead Park. Although there was some urgency expressed regarding the budget approval, it was clarified that there was no strict timeline for passing the amendment. This flexibility allows for the possibility of reintroducing the HR position at a later date.

The final vote on the budget amendment saw a majority in favor, with four council members supporting the motion and two opposing it. The council's decision reflects a balancing act between immediate budgetary needs and the longer-term staffing considerations that will need to be addressed in future meetings.

In conclusion, the meeting highlighted the council's commitment to moving forward with essential city projects while navigating the complexities of staffing decisions. The potential for revisiting the HR position indicates ongoing discussions about the city's administrative needs, which will be crucial as Sedro-Woolley continues to grow and evolve.