Jasper County holds public hearing on FY2026 budget as resident presses animal-control needs

Jasper County commissioners held a public hearing Aug. 14 on the proposed FY2026 budget, which Chairman Bruce Henry said totals $16,410,585 after adjustments; he also stated the millage rate is 9.718. The hearing opened at 6:00 p.m. and closed at 6:10 p.m.

The chairman outlined specific changes to the advertised budget, including a $16,704 reduction in Sheriff Administration and a $538 increase for contracted services, yielding a net decrease of $16,104 from the previously advertised figure. County Manager Mike Benton told the meeting that $10,000 previously budgeted had been removed.

During public comment, Mary Patrick questioned whether a change for the Economic Development Authority was reflected in the updated budget and suggested the EDA could use classes at the local high school to build a website rather than the county providing $5,000. Benton responded that $10,000 had been removed from the budget.

Patrick also urged the board to prioritize Animal Control, showing a photograph and saying the operation needs more staff, including at least one person in the office at all times, and a place for animals to walk and exercise. She suggested the board match commissioner training funds for Animal Control staff and said that while some employees merit raises, "there are some who do not deserve a 5% raise," a point she raised as part of her public comments.

Commissioner Ledford said he agreed Animal Control has outgrown its building and recommended a building extension; he said he had suggested that staff submit a capital request for that purpose. No formal motions or votes were recorded in the public hearing transcript.

The public hearing closed at 6:10 p.m., with Clerk Sheila Jefferson recording the adjournment. The transcript does not record any final vote or formal adoption of the budget at this hearing.