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Council adopts hiring-freeze resolution and debates auditor authority to reduce appropriations after $750,000 refund
Summary
Council adopted a one-reading resolution requesting elected officials institute a hiring freeze through Dec. 31, 2026, while the auditor sought authority to begin reducing 2026 appropriations due to an unexpected $750,000 tax refund and rising healthcare costs; council asked for additional auditor backup and may hold a special session.
The Athens City Council on Feb. 2 adopted a resolution asking elected officials to institute a hiring freeze for full-time positions until a position review occurs, with the resolution set to remain in effect through Dec. 31, 2026. The measure was described as a nonbinding request to protect the general fund and medical fund amid increased health care costs.
Council also considered an ordinance authorizing the auditor to reduce 2026 appropriations where anticipated receipts and carryover are insufficient. Debate in committee centered on timing, transparency and whether to suspend the usual three-reading process for expedited authority. Several members said they wanted more detail; the auditor was not present at the meeting. Mayor Patterson and others cited an unexpected $750,000 tax refund payment that the auditor's office had to pay out as a contributing factor to timing concerns.
Member Thomas and others argued the council had only recently approved the budget and asked for more explanation before suspending rules. Member Wood and others said earlier action by the auditor to begin reviewing lines would be prudent; the mayor said he would work with the auditor to expedite documentation and suggested a special session could be called if legally necessary.
Interfund transfers and appropriation adjustments were discussed and read for council consideration, including moves to the cemetery fund ($73,000), parking garage debt ($160,000) and water treatment plant improvements ($400,000). The council also considered and approved then-and-now certificates for vendors and approved related emergency suspensions requested by the auditor for specific payments.
What happens next: The auditor will provide backup documentation on revenue/expense projections and any recommended reductions; council signaled it wants more detail before taking final action and indicated it could schedule a special meeting if immediate legal transfers are required.
