Council debates raising county—s financial stabilization floor from 5% to 10%
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Summary
Council members debated a proposed amendment to the GASB 54 fund balance policy that would recommend a financial stabilization minimum of 10% (up from 5%), citing a current balance near $7 million and concerns that the change could constrain an incoming administration or require cuts or tax increases to reach the higher target.
Council reviewed draft amendments to the county—s fund balance policy under GASB Statement 54 that would change the recommended minimum financial stabilization fund from 5% to 10% of budgeted general fund expenditures (with a cap of 15%) and set the change to take effect Jan. 1, 2027. Proponents said increasing the floor preserves a rainy-day reserve to avoid layoffs or service cuts during emergencies; opponents argued the move could bind a new county executive and force cuts or tax increases to reach the higher target.
A council member noted the current stabilization balance of about $7 million at the 5% level and observed that doubling the minimum would require finding roughly another $7 million by the effective date. Members debated whether the change is merely a recommended target or a binding constraint; legal counsel and sponsors clarified the ordinance would set the recommended minimum and that the effective date was selected to allow the administration time to plan. Critics said the proposal goes beyond standard GASB guidance and could unnecessarily limit a new administration—s flexibility.
The sponsor agreed to introduce the ordinance at the upcoming public session; the item was scheduled for introduction and further consideration at the next meeting. Council did not take a final vote during the committee session.