Meridian City Council on May 20 debated whether to transfer funds to fulfill a prior pledge of roughly $236,000 to The MAX but did not approve any transfer. City staff told the council statutory limits and the current budget position constrain any immediate shift of funds.

“My understanding is that there was in the charitable contributions, there was $400,000 under the statute. Dealing with the last 3 months of the term we can transfer up to 25%, which would be a hundred thousand. But the problem is is that that money has been depleted and there's no more money left in that that fund right now,” a staff member told the council and recommended waiting until the budget review when financial staff are present.

Council members said they want to honor prior promises to The MAX and discussed options. The transcript shows council members and staff agreed the appropriate path is to review the books at a work session when the finance director (Brandy) and city attorney are available to confirm what transfers are lawful under state law and the city code. One council member urged that the council ensure at least three votes would be available if the issue returns for action; others cautioned that rushing a transfer without clear legal authority could create compliance problems.

The council did not adopt a funding transfer. Staff instructed that the item be revisited at a work session when the budget and statutory options can be examined and when the finance director is present to present exact figures and mechanics for a lawful transfer or budget amendment.

Next steps: The council will consider the item at a work session with the finance director and counsel; staff will present the budget positions and legal options for amending the budget or transferring funds consistent with statute before any action is taken.