Heard County board adopts 2021-2022 budget; funding for codes enforcement position to become available in July

The Heard County Board of Commissioners unanimously adopted the county's 2021-2022 budget at its June 22 meeting, approving the spending plan without discussion.

Chairman Lee Boone presided as Commissioner Larry Hooks moved to adopt the budget and Commissioner Larry Hammond seconded; the motion passed unanimously. The board recorded no debate or amendments during the vote.

The approval carries operational implications for county staffing: Chairman Boone said funding for a Codes Enforcement position will become available in July, a change commissioners noted in the meeting. Commissioner Hammond asked that the board hold a work session to review unfilled positions and upcoming department-head vacancies.

During the same portion of the agenda the board approved an agreement to host the City of Franklin's municipal election. Tonnie Adams, the county Election Superintendent, told commissioners the contract would mirror the county's existing reimbursable arrangements with Centralhatchee and Ephesus; Adams said the City of Franklin will reimburse any county expenses related to administering that election. Commissioner James Perry moved to approve the hosting request, and Commissioner Larry Hooks seconded; the vote was unanimous.

The board's action finalizes the county's spending plan for the fiscal year beginning in 2021 and signals near-term staffing decisions: county leaders expect to discuss vacancies and candidate recruitment at a future work session. The board set no specific dates for the work session during the meeting.