Hardin County Fiscal Court adopts $60.8 million budget after one vote of opposition

Hardin County’s Fiscal Court on June 9 adopted its fiscal-year 2026–27 budget, Ordinance 347, a $60.8 million spending plan approved by roll call after a brief exchange about staffing and compensation.

A magistrate who opposed the measure said the budget makes several cuts that will affect emergency and fire services. "I am not happy and I pretty strongly disagree with the major changes to this budget," the committee member said, summarizing earlier objections and saying the plan denies a grade increase for full‑time EMTs and paramedics, cuts the cost‑of‑living adjustment from 2% to 1%, and rejects a proposed fire service deputy director position (estimated $96,000 including benefits).

The dissenter said the net effect of the adopted changes will increase the county’s cash reserves by roughly $2.6 million compared with the judge’s original proposal, bringing reserves to about $34 million. The speaker warned the cuts could increase turnover and reduce service quality.

The presiding judge and other supporters said the court sought a measured approach to spending. The judge urged planning and timing before committing to larger expenditures and said officials had discussed alternatives in committee. "I think we believe in common sense and... coming up with a proper plan," the judge said.

The court took a roll‑call vote and approved Ordinance 347. Record‑keeping in the meeting shows seven magistrates voting in favor and one voting against; one magistrate was absent. The ordinance moves the budget into effect for the next fiscal year as adopted.

Next steps: the court will operate under the adopted budget for FY2026–27; no additional action on Ordinance 347 was recorded at the meeting.