Board administrator Tammy Hildebrand briefed the Alcohol Beverage Board on draft budget changes for 2013 and requested the board approve several adjustments before the board forwards the budget to the Board of County Commissioners.

Hildebrand said license renewal packages would be mailed in mid‑January and must be returned by March 4. She asked the board to approve a small amendment for inspector operating costs (cell phone and vehicle maintenance) and to unfreeze an RPT (part‑time) position: a 20‑hour senior office specialist she said would provide continuity and relieve workload when she is out for training or vacation.

Hildebrand said some budget numbers are estimates until final payroll and benefits figures are available from county finance, and she will bring finalized figures to next month’s meeting. She noted the board’s administrative office is thinly staffed and that filling the 20‑hour position would prevent the office from closing when she is absent. "When I'm out ... the door is closed," she said, urging the board to consider reinstating the position to maintain operations and internal controls.

The board discussed the cost and the role of the position; members asked Hildebrand to present final numbers for vote at the January meeting so the board can meet the county’s budget filing deadlines.

Next steps: Hildebrand will send the board the final budget numbers and a formal request to unfreeze the position for a vote at the board’s next meeting. The budget is due to the Board of County Commissioners in February.