DeKalb County Council advances 2026 budget work session, approves airport budget on first reading and several transfers; tables animal-control pay decision

The DeKalb County Council on Sept. 3 approved several budget transfers and two additional appropriations and gave first reading approval to the airport budget, while tabling a contested salary classification for a part‑time animal control officer until the sheriff can appear.

Council members approved two additional appropriations from the Highway fund to cover insurance and utilities: $13,700 for liability insurance and approximately $10,000 for natural gas and utility costs tied to the department’s new campus. Council discussion noted rising utility invoices and a NIPSCO proposal to raise certain rates by about 17 percent next year; council members said they will monitor invoices and budget lines for further adjustments.

The council also approved a package of transfers across departments to cover invoices and program needs. Key transfers approved included: - Community Corrections: $1,999.99 moved from building repair and…