Columbia City warns of potential budget cuts, pauses hiring and names retired officer as code enforcement coordinator

Mayor Daniel told the Works and Safety Committee on June 10 that Columbia City is preparing for an uncertain revenue outlook tied to state-level action and is planning a “flat line” budget for the coming fiscal year.

The mayor said the city currently anticipates zero new hires next year and will only backfill positions when employees leave or retire. He said the city could still make some capital projects happen but that the final picture depends on state developments he described as “senate rollback 1.” He cautioned department heads that additional cuts could be required depending on the final state revenue outcome.

At the same meeting the police department reported that Officer Leatherman retired from his sworn role after 26 years of service and will continue working for the city in a newly created civilian position as city code enforcement coordinator. The department praised his service and said the move is intended to improve building and property-code coordination with county building and housing authorities.

Staff also briefed the committee on event planning: the American Legion Old Settlers Day Parade received a street-closing permit for June 21, the city will observe Juneteenth as a holiday on June 19, and the city is preparing for America 250 and Fourth of July-related activities. The committee was told tornado sirens have been ordered for replacement.

No budget votes were taken; the mayor’s statements were presented as planning guidance and staff were asked to proceed under the flat-budget assumption.