Brooksville City Council Approves Updates to Employee Policy Manual and Law Enforcement Contract

The Brooksville City Council convened on August 18, 2025, to address several key agenda items, including funding for wastewater treatment, updates to the employee policy manual, and a contract addendum for law enforcement services.

The meeting began with a discussion on funding requests for the wastewater treatment plant, where officials sought $20 million for upgrades and an additional $4 million for a vulnerability assessment. The council emphasized the importance of exploring all funding avenues, including state and federal options, to meet the growing community's needs. A motion to approve the funding request passed unanimously.

Next, the council reviewed an updated personnel manual presented by Human Resources Director Kyle Martin. The revisions aimed to enhance clarity, ensure legal compliance, and align with current operational needs. Key updates included new policies on emergency pay, on-call compensation, and paid time off (PTO) regulations. The council engaged in a thorough discussion regarding the fiscal implications of the proposed changes, particularly concerning PTO payouts for employees. After deliberation, the council approved the updated manual with a vote of 4 to 1.

The meeting continued with a proposal to declare a sole source provider for chlorine gas cylinders necessary for the city's drinking water treatment. The council approved the contract with BrenTag Mid South, which will supply chlorine gas at a rate of $1.79 per 150 pounds, effective for the next year.

Additionally, the council discussed an addendum to the current law enforcement contract with the Hernando County Sheriff's Office. This addendum would reduce the number of deputies from four to three per 24-hour period, resulting in a projected savings of $299,000 for the fiscal year 2026. The council expressed appreciation for the sheriff's office's collaboration and commitment to maintaining public safety while addressing budgetary constraints. The addendum was approved unanimously.

In conclusion, the Brooksville City Council's meeting highlighted significant financial decisions aimed at improving city services while managing budgetary challenges. The council's proactive approach to funding and policy updates reflects its commitment to addressing the needs of the community effectively.