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DSS director warns of $135,000–$200,000 shortfall as board approves 2026–27 budget requests and 6% COLA
Summary
Cherokee County DSS Director Amanda T. McGee told the board recent federal and state changes could cut reimbursements and increase workload, estimating a $135,000–$200,000 gap; the board approved the department's 2026'2027 budget requests, including security upgrades, and a 6% cost-of-living increase for employees.
Amanda T. McGee, director of the Cherokee County Department of Social Services, told the board on Feb. 17 that recent changes to recertification and work requirements will raise Food and Nutrition staffing workload while federal administrative reimbursements could fall from about 50% to 25%, producing an estimated county shortfall of $135,000 to $200,000 for FY 2026–2027.
McGee said the department will need extra staff to handle the additional workload, requesting three eligibility caseworkers and two Quality Assurance Specialists. She asked the board to consider advocating to the legislature for funding and said she has notified the County Manager, who "reported an understanding." McGee also told members she understands the state currently has no plan to request additional legislative funding, leaving counties to close the gap.
The board discussed safety-related budget requests that McGee presented as tied to operational risk and staff safety, including quotes for gates, keypads and installation, and options for bullet‑resistant transaction windows. The board asked for clarification on vendor quotes and whether procurement law requires accepting the lowest bid; McGee provided supporting materials and said she would seek county clarification on quotes and procurement rules. Attachment estimates included monitor and accessory costs ($875.00), vendor gate/fencing estimates (examples: Tri State Gates total $64,152.68; Wells & West Option 1 $47,650, Option 2 $66,590) and transaction-window options (approximately $30,600 to $43,365 depending on scope).
After discussion, the board voted to approve the department's 2026'2027 budget requests. Pat Ivie moved to approve the budget requests; James Jallah seconded, and all members present voted in favor. The board also approved McGee's request for a 6% cost-of-living adjustment for DSS employees; Dr. Catherine Yost moved approval, James Jallah seconded, and the motion passed unanimously.
Votes at a glance: the board adopted the meeting agenda and approved minutes from Dec. 16, 2025 and Jan. 27, 2025 earlier in the meeting; later motions included approval of the DSS budget requests and approval of a 6% COLA. The meeting adjourned at 6:15 PM.
What happens next: McGee said she will continue to press county leadership and state contacts for funding solutions and will follow up with procurement clarifications on the security items to inform implementation planning.
