The Shawnee County Commission meeting on July 7, 2025, highlighted significant developments in the public works department, particularly regarding staffing and budget proposals. The department has successfully trained seven new employees, filling ten positions, despite some turnover. This progress reflects a strong interest in the new Commercial Driver's License (CDL) training program, which aims to address ongoing vacancies in field positions.
During the meeting, a proposed budget increase of $82,000 for non-salary expenses was discussed. Of this amount, $48,000 is earmarked for a retirement fund, a cost that the department cannot control. Additionally, $18,750 is requested to support the CDL training program, with hopes of filling five trainee positions to meet current staffing needs.
The overall budget for 2026 represents a modest increase of $325,000 compared to 2017, translating to an annualized growth of less than 0.8%. The public works department, which employs 60 staff members, is noted for its efficiency, especially when compared to larger departments like Douglas County.
Looking ahead, the department plans to invest in a new dump truck each year to maintain its fleet, emphasizing the heavy usage of existing vehicles. This strategic investment aims to ensure continued operational effectiveness in public works services.