Chair warns of early fiscal‑year overspending as commissioners plan August agenda

During the July 24 work session, County Manager Thomas Weaver provided routine departmental updates on recreation, community development, water and public works. Chairman Charles Coffey expressed concern that early spending and recently granted raises could push departments over budget and urged managers to submit outstanding invoices so costs are accounted for in the current fiscal year rather than the new budget.

"If they spend how they are spending they are going to go over budget. It is just poor spending practices," Coffey told fellow commissioners, adding that the comment was intended as a caution to department heads. The chair also urged residents to place trash at the road to reduce county recycling expenses and mentioned an open appointment on the regional RVRC board.

Commissioners discussed items to appear on the Aug. 6 regular meeting agenda, including budget amendments, reappointments to the Industrial Development Authority (Walter Miller and Lou Beck were proposed for reappointment) and a 4‑H renewal request that may need additional funding. The county manager said he would follow up with the 4‑H coordinator and gather participation data prior to the Aug. 6 meeting.

Chair Coffey also reported the county has contacted U.S. Rep. Sanford Bishop's office about improvements at a known accident location on Highway 520 and said engineers have given a target of October for design work, with possible construction beginning early next year.