The Cleveland County Commissioner’s Meeting held on May 21, 2024, focused primarily on the presentation and discussion of the upcoming fiscal year budget. The meeting emphasized the importance of a balanced budget in compliance with North Carolina General Statute 159, which governs local government fiscal control.

The budget presentation highlighted the collaborative efforts of department directors and the budget team, who worked diligently to align budget requests with the commissioners' priorities. Acknowledgment was given to the contributions of various agency heads, emphasizing teamwork and the importance of high-performance standards in service delivery.

Key priorities for the upcoming year were outlined, with a strong focus on education, public safety, community wellness, and becoming an employer of choice. The commissioners reiterated that education is a critical factor for future success, and funding allocations reflect this commitment. Public safety was also underscored as a vital aspect of community vibrancy, with ongoing investments in safety initiatives and facilities.

The meeting further discussed the significance of community wellness, not only for staff but also for the broader community, linking health improvements to economic development. The commissioners expressed their goal of being an employer of choice, emphasizing career progression opportunities beyond supervisory roles to attract and retain talent.

Lastly, the importance of performance measures was highlighted, with plans to implement a dashboard to track progress against established priorities. This initiative aims to enhance transparency and accountability within the county government.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored Cleveland County's commitment to a balanced budget that prioritizes education, public safety, and community wellness, while also fostering a supportive work environment for its employees. The next steps will involve finalizing the budget and implementing the discussed initiatives to meet the community's needs effectively.