The Grant County Council held its third budget hearing on August 28, 2024, focusing on the financial allocations for the upcoming fiscal year. Key discussions included updates on local income tax revenue estimates and budget requests from various departments.

During the meeting, officials reported an increase in expected local income tax revenue for February 2025, with estimates rising from approximately $7.85 million to about $8 million, reflecting a $150,000 increase. Additionally, the heated fund is projected to see a $35,000 bump, bringing its total to just over $1 million.

Council members outlined their budget goals, emphasizing the need for reasonable appropriations, competitive wages for employees, and maintaining a healthy operating balance of 10% for each fund. The council plans to address personnel requests later in the budget process, focusing initially on non-personnel items.

Superior Court 1 presented its budget request, which included a uniform salary increase for its three employees. The court's overall budget request remained consistent with the previous year, except for the elimination of witness fees. The council approved categories 2, 3, and 4 of Superior Court 1's budget without opposition.

Superior Court 2 also requested a salary increase for staff, aligning with compensation trends in other counties. The court's budget request included a slight increase for the Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) program, from $62,500 to $63,639, to secure additional state funding. CASA representatives highlighted the program's significant cost savings for the county, emphasizing the importance of maintaining funding levels to continue their services.

The meeting concluded with discussions on the appeals and proper counsel fund, where a request for $11,000 was made, consistent with previous years. The council is set to review further details in upcoming meetings.

Overall, the budget hearing underscored the council's commitment to fiscal responsibility while addressing the needs of various departments and ensuring adequate funding for essential services in Grant County.