Spencer council tables request for $33,500 city share of E911 shortfall

Mayor Farmer opened discussion on E911 funding after Julie Dodson, director of the county E911 service, told the City of Spencer council that the dispatch center will be in deficit “for the third year in a row” and is seeking an additional $100,000 for fiscal year 2026–27. Dodson said the shortfall was split between the county ($66,500) and the city ($33,500), which she said would make the city’s annual contribution $83,500.

Mayor Farmer asked why the council was not notified earlier, saying she had not been aware of the prior-year deficit until audit results arrived. Dodson replied that the E911 board had been awaiting state funding that was vetoed by the governor, which contributed to the revenue gap. Sherriff Brock told the council the county is waiting to see the county’s proposed budget before committing additional funds. Dodson invited council members to the E911 board meeting set for June 8, when the budget will be presented to that board.

Alderman David Chandler moved to table the request while the council and county determine where any supplemental funding will come from; Alderman Jill Bouldin seconded. The motion passed by roll call: Hensley—Absent; Nance—Yes; Campbell—Yes; Chandler—Yes; Bouldin—Yes.

The tabling preserves the council’s ability to consider the E911 request when the city finalizes FY 2026–27 budget figures; Mayor Farmer noted the city’s budget numbers will be adjusted prior to the ordinance’s second reading if the council agrees to a contribution. No formal appropriation or commitment was made at the meeting.

Next steps: council members said they will review county budget proposals and the E911 presentation on June 8 before taking further action. The item remains tabled pending identification of a funding source.