Russell County approves DSS one-time salary bonus and budget discussions

The Russell County Board of Supervisors convened on June 9, 2025, to address several key agenda items, including a public hearing on the Department of Social Services (DSS) one-time salary bonus, the county-wide financial budget for fiscal years 2025-2026, and the transfer of property from the school board to the county.

The meeting began with a public hearing regarding the Russell County DSS's proposed one-time salary bonus for full-time employees. This bonus, amounting to 1.5% of each employee's annual salary, has been authorized by the Virginia General Assembly's Appropriation Act for the fiscal year 2025-2026. The funding for this bonus will primarily come from the state, with a local match requirement of approximately $4,299.35. After the public hearing, the board sought approval for the bonus, which was met with a motion and subsequent discussion. Board members expressed their support, emphasizing the deserving nature of the bonus for DSS employees.

Following the DSS discussion, the board moved to the public hearing on the county-wide financial budget for fiscal years 2025-2026. A resident, Mark Manny, addressed the board, sharing insights from his experience as a constitutional officer in Washington County. He highlighted the complexities of state funding for local salaries and urged the board to be aware of the financial implications of state employee classifications.

The final public hearing focused on the transfer of a property located at 218 Memorial Drive from the school board to the county. No public comments were made on this issue, leading to the closure of all three public hearings.

In conclusion, the board approved the one-time salary bonus for DSS employees and discussed the broader financial budget for the upcoming fiscal years. The meeting underscored the importance of local funding decisions and the impact of state policies on county finances. Further actions regarding the budget will be addressed in subsequent meetings.